This dish has become a staple in our household, and it’s no surprise why! It’s deliciously hearty, bursting with flavor, and incredibly easy to whip together after a long day. My husband often asks for this meal, not just because he loves it but also because it brings us together at the dinner table. With its comforting taste and warm aromas, This is one of my husband’s favorite weeknight meals will surely win over your family too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started on this delightful meal, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken or turkey
- 1 cup (150 g) chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (150 g) diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tsp (5 g) ground cumin
- 1 tsp (5 g) paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups (60 g) cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese of your choice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make This Family Favorite
Here is how to bring this mouthwatering meal to your table:
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground chicken or turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s browned all the way through, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
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Add the Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together, ensuring nothing is stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
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Combine with Rice: Once simmering, add in the cooked rice or quinoa. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for about 3-5 minutes.
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Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes until the cheese has melted.
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Garnish & Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, take the skillet off the heat. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve & Enjoy This Family Favorite
When it comes to serving This is one of my husband’s favorite weeknight meals, a simple presentation goes a long way! Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic feel or spoon it onto plates for a more formal look. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also enhance the experience by serving it with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
Helpful Tricks for This Weeknight Meal
- Try Different Proteins: While we love using chicken or turkey, feel free to experiment with ground beef or a meat substitute if you want a vegetarian version.
- Add Extra Veggies: Sneak in more veggies by adding spinach or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge for a few days. You can also make a double batch and freeze half for an even quicker meal next time!
Common Questions About This Weeknight Meal
Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely! Leftover rice makes this dish even quicker to prepare, as you can skip the cooking step.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Of course! Add jalapeños or chili powder for a spicy kick that your family might enjoy.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or even water will work fine if you don’t have chicken broth on hand.
There you have it! This is one of my husband’s favorite weeknight meals is sure to become a beloved dish in your home. Give it a try, and I hope you love it just as much as we do! Happy cooking!