If you’re craving a flavorful, wholesome dinner that comes together quickly and delights the whole family, this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe is going to become your new best friend. The juicy ground turkey is perfectly paired with a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory, while crisp broccoli and tender carrots add that satisfying crunch and vibrant color. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that’s nutritious, comforting, and downright delicious—all ready in about 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich umami of soy sauce to the bright freshness of orange zest, making sure every bite sings with flavor and balance.
- ¼ cup soy sauce: The salty, savory backbone that gives the teriyaki its signature depth.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a warm sweetness that perfectly balances the salty soy sauce.
- 1 cup water, divided: Essential for creating the sauce and helping the ingredients cook evenly.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Enhances sweetness naturally and adds a gorgeous sheen to the sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Injects aromatic warmth and a touch of pungency.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced: Brings a bright, spicy zestiness that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons corn starch: Thickens the sauce to that perfect glossy texture.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Adds a citrusy brightness that wakes up all the flavors.
- 1 pound ground turkey: The lean, tender protein at the heart of this stir fry.
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil: Imparts a delicate nutty aroma and richness to the stir fry.
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Offers a fresh crunch and nutritional boost.
- 1 small onion, small diced: Adds sweetness and texture depth when softened.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Provides color, mild sweetness, and a crisp bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and enhance all the vibrant flavors.
How to Make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
Start by combining ¾ cup water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir everything together so the sugar begins to dissolve and the flavors mingle beautifully. Once it reaches a gentle boil, whisk together the remaining ¼ cup water and corn starch until smooth, then slowly add this slurry to the pan. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens into a luscious glaze, then immediately remove it from the heat. Stir in the orange zest to brighten the sauce with a fresh, citrusy note, and set it aside for the stir fry later.
Step 2: Prepare the Stir Fry Base
Heat the sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion to soften, releasing its natural sweetness and aroma as it cooks down for a few minutes. This softened base layers subtle sweetness into the dish, perfectly complementing the turkey and sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the skillet with the softened onion. Break it up gently as it cooks, stirring frequently until it’s no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures your poultry is cooked safely and stays juicy without drying out.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Toss in the broccoli florets and shredded carrots, stirring well to combine. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender but still maintain some of their natural crunch, locking in freshness and a satisfying bite against the tender turkey and rich sauce. Adjust heat as needed to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Combine with Teriyaki Sauce and Finish
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour your homemade teriyaki sauce over the meat and veggies. Stir everything together and let it cook for a couple more minutes to allow the flavors to harmonize fully. The sauce will coat each ingredient in a shiny, fragrant glaze that’s irresistible.
How to Serve Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions over the top just before serving. These simple garnishes add texture and a pop of fresh flavor, making your dish look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This stir fry shines beautifully over a bed of steamed white or brown rice, which soaks up every drop of that amazing teriyaki sauce. If you want something lighter, try quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that still pairs perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe inside crispy lettuce wraps or atop a warm tortilla for a quick fusion taco. It’s a playful way to enjoy the flavors and perfect for casual get-togethers or family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze this stir fry, though it’s best frozen without rice for texture. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly and stays juicy. If the sauce has thickened too much in storage, splash a little water or broth to loosen it up and keep it saucy.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully as a substitute and will provide a similar mild flavor and lean texture that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki sauce.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the sauce gluten-free without sacrificing that signature savory taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha when making the sauce or stirring everything together for a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
Of course! Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or even baby corn can all be fantastic additions, making the dish even more colorful and nutrient-packed.
What’s the best way to ensure the ground turkey stays moist?
Make sure not to overcook it—stir frequently and cook just until no longer pink. The combination of the teriyaki sauce also helps lock in moisture, keeping the turkey juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe is one of those comforting, flavorful meals that feels both wholesome and special. It’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation—so grab those ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner packed with tender turkey, fresh vegetables, and a homemade teriyaki sauce. It combines juicy ground turkey with crisp broccoli, sweet carrots, and a savory-sweet sauce, making it a healthy and delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Teriyaki Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¾ cup water (for sauce)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
- ¼ cup water (for corn starch slurry)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Stir Fry
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, small diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Teriyaki Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ¾ cup water, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, and brown sugar. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a low boil.
- Thicken Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup water and corn starch until the corn starch is completely dissolved. Slowly add this slurry to the boiling sauce while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the orange zest. Set aside.
- Cook Aromatics and Turkey: Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for several minutes until softened. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the turkey is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, approximately 7-10 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are heated through and tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the turkey and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for several minutes to meld the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the ground turkey teriyaki stir fry over cooked rice or noodles as desired for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli based on availability; frozen broccoli works well and saves prep time.
- Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce by varying the amounts of honey and soy sauce to your taste.
- This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for added fiber.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content if preferred.
