Smart Recipe Kitchen

2026-05-03

This turkey taco rice skillet is a one-pan dinner that brings together pantry ingredients in a format that is easy to portion and reheat. It is especially useful on busy nights when cleanup needs to stay simple. Serves 4.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
• Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey and cook, breaking it up, until no longer pink.
2. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook 4 to 5 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt.
3. Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook 18 minutes.
5. Stir in the corn, cover again, and cook 3 minutes more.
6. Sprinkle with cheddar, let it melt, and serve with cilantro and lime.

Why it works:

The rice cooks directly in the seasoned liquid, which keeps the dish cohesive and flavorful.

Timing:

Prep 12 minutes, cook 28 minutes, total about 40 minutes.