Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet | SaraTasty

Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s both quick and delicious. With lean turkey, tender zucchini, and hearty chickpeas, it’s a flavorful one-pan dish perfect for busy weeknights. Infused with cumin and smoked paprika, this meal is both comforting and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy—ready in just 25 minutes
  • Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
  • High in protein and fiber for a balanced meal
  • One-pan recipe, making cleanup a breeze
  • Easily customizable with different spices and veggies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground turkey
  • Zucchini
  • Chickpeas (canned, drained, and rinsed)
  • Olive oil
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Ground cumin
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Sauté the onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Cook the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
  4. Add zucchini and chickpeas: Stir in the diced zucchini, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  5. Cook until tender: Let the mixture cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini softens.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Variations

  • Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace ground turkey with lentils or crumbled tofu.
  • Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
  • Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle with feta or Parmesan cheese before serving.
  • Low-Carb Version: Swap chickpeas for cauliflower rice or extra zucchini.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes! Ground chicken works just as well as turkey in this recipe.

Do I have to peel the zucchini?

No, zucchini skin is soft and nutritious, so there’s no need to peel it.

What type of chickpeas should I use?

Canned chickpeas are the easiest option. Just drain and rinse them before using.

Can I add tomatoes to this dish?

Yes! Diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes add a nice burst of flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand.

How can I make this meal more filling?

Serve it over rice, quinoa, or couscous for extra substance.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day.

What can I serve with this skillet meal?

A side of pita bread, hummus, or a fresh salad pairs well with it.

Can I double the recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just use a larger skillet and store portions for easy lunches.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Packed with protein, fiber, and delicious seasonings, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal. Try it today for an easy, one-pan dinner that the whole family will love!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet

Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a flavorful, protein-packed meal made with lean turkey, tender zucchini, and hearty chickpeas. Seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin, this quick and healthy one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights and ready in just 25 minutes!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Sauté Aromatics:

    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
    • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  • Cook the Turkey:

    • Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula.
    • Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
  • Add Veggies & Chickpeas:

    • Stir in diced zucchini, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
    • Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is tender.
  • Garnish & Serve:

    • Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
    • Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
  • Swap chickpeas for black beans for a different flavor twist.
  • Serve over quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.
  • Make it dairy-free or add a sprinkle of feta or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments