Introduction

This Ground Chicken Zucchini Rice Skillet is a quick and satisfying one-pan meal that combines lean protein, fresh veggies, and tender rice. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something wholesome and full of flavor without a lot of fuss.

The image shows a close-up of a bowl filled with a mixed dish made of light brown minced meat, small white grains of cooked rice, and green zucchini pieces cut into small cubes. The ingredients are evenly spread and mixed, with fresh chopped green herbs sprinkled on top. The bowl holding this dish is white and rests on a white marbled surface. The textures range from soft and juicy zucchini to crumbly meat and fluffy rice. The overall look is fresh and colorful with a home-cooked feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground chicken
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the diced zucchini and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Mix in the rice, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming the rice.
Step 8: Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and moist.
Make sure to measure the chicken broth accurately for the best rice texture.
For extra color and flavor, add diced bell peppers or a handful of spinach along with the zucchini.
Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or lean ground beef if preferred.

Storage

Store leftover skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

A close-up of a bowl filled with a mix of cooked ground meat, chunks of green zucchini with skin, and white and translucent cooked rice, all tossed with chopped fresh green herbs. The ground meat is crumbly and brown, and the zucchini pieces are soft with slight browning on the edges. The mixture looks moist with a slight gloss from oil or sauce, and the green herbs are sprinkled evenly throughout, adding a fresh texture. The bowl is white, and the background shows a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid.

Is ground chicken a healthy choice for this dish?

Absolutely. Ground chicken is a lean protein that provides a good source of protein with less fat compared to other ground meats, making this dish both nutritious and flavorful.