Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet
This Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your weeknight dinners exciting and nutritious. Packed with lean ground turkey, vibrant broccoli, and tender orzo, this dish is a quick one-pan wonder that brings comfort and ease to your table. Whether you are cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
A Personal Story Behind My Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet Journey
Growing up, I always cherished the moments spent in the kitchen with my family. My mother had a knack for creating wholesome meals that were both delicious and nutritious. One of her go-to recipes was a turkey and vegetable stir-fry, which inspired me to create this Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet. It combines the comforting essence of home-cooked meals with the health benefits of lean protein and vegetables, making it a perfect dish that resonates with my culinary roots.
What Makes This Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. The combination of ground turkey and fresh broccoli offers a rich source of protein and vitamins, while orzo adds a delightful pasta texture. The use of lemon pepper seasoning and Dijon mustard infuses a zesty flavor that elevates the dish. Plus, the one-skillet cooking method means less mess and easy cleanup—a win-win for any home cook!
The Full Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Turkey (99/1)
- 12 oz Broccoli Florets, cut into small pieces
- 1 1/2 Tablespoon Olive Oil, divided
- 1 1/3 cup Orzo
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice
- 2 Tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 2 1/2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- For Finishing:
- 1 cup Skim Milk
- 1 oz Unsalted Butter
- 2 oz Parmesan Cheese, grated
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and cook until they are dark green and slightly charred, about 5-6 minutes. Set aside. (Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking.)
- Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and cook the ground turkey until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 7-8 minutes.
- Push the cooked turkey to one side of the pan and add the orzo. Toast for 1-2 minutes until golden, then add the lemon pepper seasoning, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth. Stir well, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes until the broth is absorbed. (Tip: Stirring helps prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan.)
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter, skim milk, and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and well combined. Add the roasted broccoli and mix everything together.
- Serve hot with freshly grated black pepper and Parmesan, chili flakes for heat, a drizzle of olive oil or Calabrian chili oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet
This dish is incredibly versatile! You can serve it as is or pair it with crusty bread for a heartier meal. For those who love a little spice, consider adding some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor. It also makes for fantastic leftovers, so feel free to prepare it in advance for quick meals throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet
Can I use other types of meat? Yes! You can substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Is this dish kid-friendly? Absolutely! The flavors are mild and appealing to children, and the creamy texture makes it comforting for all ages.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 4
Turkey and Broccoli Orzo Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Turkey (99/1)
- 12 ounces Broccoli Florets, cut into small pieces
- 1.5 tablespoons Olive Oil, divided
- 1.33 cups Orzo
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- 0.25 cups Lemon Juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 2.5 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Skim Milk
- 1 ounce Unsalted Butter
- 2 ounces Parmesan Cheese, grated
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and cook until dark green and slightly charred, about 5-6 minutes. Set aside.
- Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and cook the ground turkey until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 7-8 minutes.
- Push the cooked turkey to one side of the pan and add the orzo. Toast for 1-2 minutes until golden, then add the lemon pepper seasoning, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth. Stir well, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes until the broth is absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter, skim milk, and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and well combined. Add the roasted broccoli and mix everything together.
- Serve hot with freshly grated black pepper and Parmesan, chili flakes for heat, a drizzle of olive oil or Calabrian chili oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice.