High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl

Name: High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Smart Planning

I love creating meal bowls that are both nutritious and satisfying. This High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl is my go-to recipe when I want something hearty yet healthy. With tender ground turkey, vibrant veggies, and a hearty grain, it has everything I crave in one bowl. It's quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it a staple in my kitchen. Try it out, and you'll see why I can't get enough of this nutritious delight!

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:55:34.714Z

This High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl has become a favorite in my household. I experimented with various spices and veggies before landing on the perfect combination that balances flavor and nutrition. The use of lean ground turkey not only boosts protein but also keeps the meal light. I love adding a splash of lime juice at the end for a zesty finish!

What really makes this bowl a winner is how customizable it is. Whether I'm using quinoa, brown rice, or farro as the base, it adapts well to whatever I have on hand. Plus, leftovers taste delicious the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with lean protein for muscle recovery
Nutritious veggies add color and health benefits
Versatile for different grains and toppings

      

Why Quinoa is the Perfect Base

Quinoa is not just a grain; it's a complete protein, making it ideal for a hearty dinner bowl. When cooked correctly, it has a delightful, slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory ground turkey and fresh vegetables. For best results, rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Cooking it in vegetable broth instead of water enhances its flavor profile, leading to a more satisfying meal.

This high-protein bowl benefits from the versatility of quinoa. If you're short on time, you can substitute it with pre-cooked quinoa or other grains like brown rice or farro. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary: brown rice often takes about 40-45 minutes, while farro can take 30 minutes, so adjust your cooking to ensure everything is ready simultaneously.

Choosing the Right Turkey

Using ground turkey in this recipe not only boosts the protein content but also keeps the dish lean and healthy. Opt for lean turkey breast for a low-fat option, or ground turkey thigh for a richer flavor, as it contains more fat, enhancing the overall juiciness. Cook until the turkey is browned, which indicates it has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F. This visual cue will also enrich the flavorful base of your bowl.

If you're looking to switch up the protein, consider using ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives. However, keep an eye on the cooking time and seasoning, as these can vary significantly. Adjust spices and aromatics according to your protein choice to maintain the dish's overall flavor harmony.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 lb ground turkey
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and set aside.

Sauté the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until turkey is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Add the Veggies

Stir in diced bell pepper, zucchini, and corn. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until veggies are tender.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls, top with the turkey and veggie mixture, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the veggies based on your preference or seasonality. Adding avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt can enhance the creaminess and flavor of the bowl.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables in this dinner bowl. While bell peppers and zucchini provide great texture and nutrition, other options like spinach, kale, or broccoli can also be added. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and maximize flavor absorption. Sauté these veggies until they're vibrant and tender, usually about 5-7 minutes depending on your choice.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables can further enhance the freshness of this dish. For example, during the summer months, try adding diced tomatoes or fresh corn, while in the fall, pumpkin or butternut squash can add a delightful sweetness, making the bowl not only healthy but also festive.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook the quinoa and turkey mixture in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When properly stored, cooked quinoa will last for about 5 days, while ground turkey should ideally be consumed within 3-4 days. This way, you can quickly assemble your bowl throughout the week, making healthy eating effortless.

To freeze, simply portion the turkey and quinoa into freezer-safe containers after they have cooled. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming, ensuring it maintains its flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for turkey as they have similar cooking times and flavors.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this bowl?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cool the mixture fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding your favorite spices, such as cumin or paprika, or mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor.