High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl

Name: High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Vital Plates

I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. The High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl combines lean ground turkey with a vibrant mix of vegetables and grains. It's a complete meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This bowl is colorful, satisfying, and incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Once you try it, I promise this will become a go-to in your dinner rotation!

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:19:18.030Z

When I first made this High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl, I didn't expect it to become such a staple in our house. The combination of flavors and textures from the turkey, quinoa, and fresh veggies creates a satisfying dish that doesn't compromise on taste. I usually add my favorite spices, which enhance the turkey's flavor beautifully.

One tip I’ve discovered is to prep the ingredients ahead of time. It makes the cooking process go smoother, and I can whip up this healthy meal in no time. It's a lifesaver for busy evenings when I crave something nutritious yet quick!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to keep you feeling full and energized
Versatile ingredients that can be easily swapped or customized
Perfectly balanced flavors that the whole family will enjoy

Enjoying the Flavorful Balance

The combination of lean ground turkey and quinoa makes this High Protein Turkey Dinner Bowl not only nutritious but also delightfully satisfying. Ground turkey is a great protein source that remains juicy when cooked properly. I recommend keeping the heat at medium while sautéing the turkey, ensuring it browns nicely without drying out. This way, the fat in the turkey helps keep it moist and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Vegetables play a crucial role in this dish, adding both nutrition and vibrant colors. The bell peppers and zucchini provide a nice crunch, while spinach adds a earthy flavor. Make sure the vegetables are chopped uniformly to ensure even cooking. When sautéing, let them cook just until tender but still slightly crisp to maintain their integrity and bright color, which adds to the visual appeal of the bowl.

Customizations and Dietary Swaps

One of the significant advantages of this recipe is its versatility. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, consider swapping quinoa for cauliflower rice. It cooks quickly and takes on flavors beautifully, complementing the rest of the ingredients. For those who prefer a different protein, ground chicken or even plant-based options like lentils or crumbled tofu can be equally delicious, ensuring that everyone's dietary preferences are covered.

To take the flavor to the next level, think about adding spices such as smoked paprika or cumin to the turkey while cooking. These spices will bring warmth and complexity to the dish. Additionally, you can toss in any leftover vegetables you have on hand or seasonal produce, making this a great way to minimize food waste while enjoying a delicious meal.

Storage and Meal Prep Ideas

If you're meal prepping, this bowl stores exceptionally well. After assembling, keep the quinoa and turkey mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, store the fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro separately until you're ready to serve. Reheat the turkey and quinoa mixture in the microwave, adding a splash of broth for moisture if necessary to prevent it from drying out.

This recipe also freezes quite well. For longer storage, let the turkey and quinoa mix cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It'll last for about 3 months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeks or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

Turkey Bowl Base

1 lb ground turkey
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables & Toppings

1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the turkey is browned and fully cooked through.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet with the turkey. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, layer cooked quinoa, turkey mixture, and top with avocado slices and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding your favorite hot sauce or seasonings to the turkey while it cooks. If you're meal prepping, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Choosing Your Grains

Quinoa serves as an excellent base for this dish, but it’s important to rinse it well before cooking. This removes the naturally occurring saponins that can impart a bitter taste. Beyond quinoa, other good options include farro, brown rice, or even whole wheat couscous if you're looking for a different texture or flavor profile in your bowl. Each grain brings its own nutritional benefits and will harmonize beautifully with the turkey and veggies.

When cooking quinoa, keep a loose lid on for the final few minutes. This helps steam content escape while still keeping moisture in. The goal is to have fluffy quinoa, not mushy. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, toast the quinoa in your saucepan with a teaspoon of olive oil for about 2-3 minutes before adding the broth.

Enhancing Your Bowl

Adding toppings like avocado not only provides healthy fats but also creaminess that enriches each bite. For a punch of acidity, squeeze fresh lime over the top before serving. If you want additional crunch, consider topping your bowl with roasted nuts or seeds that you can toast quickly in the oven or on the stovetop. This little step can elevate the dish and make your meal feel gourmet without much extra effort.

Experimenting with sauces can also enhance the bowl's overall flavor. A simple drizzle of tahini or a homemade yogurt sauce with garlic and cucumber can add a refreshing touch. If you enjoy a kick, a few dashes of hot sauce or sriracha can make the meal exciting and personalized to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the quinoa and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! You can store the individual components in the fridge and assemble the bowl when you're ready to eat.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in any of your favorites, like broccoli, corn, or carrots!