Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight dinner—quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. The savory-sweet teriyaki sauce perfectly complements the lean ground turkey, while the vibrant mix of fresh vegetables adds crunch and nutrition. It’s a delicious, balanced meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this stir fry is a great way to get a nutritious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Best of all, you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand, making it a versatile and convenient option for busy days.

The homemade teriyaki sauce is a standout feature of this dish, made from pantry staples like soy sauce, brown sugar, and honey, and then thickened with cornstarch for a glossy, luscious finish. The addition of orange zest gives it a fresh citrusy twist that takes the sauce to the next level. Combined with the ground turkey, broccoli, and carrots, this stir fry is a wholesome and flavorful meal that your whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, nutritious meal ready to serve, making it perfect for busy nights.

2. Packed with Flavor

The homemade teriyaki sauce is sweet, savory, and tangy, coating the ground turkey and vegetables in the most irresistible glaze.

3. Healthy and Lean

Ground turkey is a lean protein, making this dish a lighter alternative to traditional stir fries without sacrificing flavor.

4. Customizable

Feel free to add or swap out vegetables, or adjust the spice level to your liking. You can even substitute the ground turkey with chicken, pork, or beef.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This stir fry stores well and can be enjoyed as leftovers, making it a great choice for meal prep throughout the week.

Ingredients

Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients

• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Water (divided)
• Honey
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh ginger (grated or minced)
• Cornstarch
• Orange zest

Stir Fry Ingredients

• Ground turkey
• Sesame oil
• Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• Small onion (diced)
• Shredded carrots
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Protein Substitutes: Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken, pork, or beef. If using beef, be sure to drain excess grease for a leaner option.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add more vegetables like snow peas, bell peppers, or baby corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add cayenne pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the stir fry for a spicy twist.
• Sauce Adjustments: Double the teriyaki sauce recipe if you like your stir fry extra saucy, or thin it with a little more water if it gets too thick.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine 3/4 cup of water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir to combine and bring to a low boil.

Step 2: Thicken the Sauce

Whisk 1/4 cup of water with the cornstarch until dissolved. Slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan and allow the sauce to thicken, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the orange zest. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for several minutes until softened.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks, until it’s browned and fully cooked.

Step 5: Add the Veggies

Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the skillet, and cook until they are heated through and tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Stir in the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the prepared teriyaki sauce. Stir to coat the turkey and vegetables in the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the stir fry over rice or as desired. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy meal!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Adjust the Sauce: If the teriyaki sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Veggies: Both fresh and frozen broccoli work well in this recipe, so you can use whatever you have on hand.
• Meal Prep: This stir fry is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Cook the Turkey Thoroughly: Make sure the turkey is fully cooked before adding the vegetables to avoid undercooking the meat.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, double the recipe and pour it over your rice for a more saucy dish.

How to Serve

This stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it with noodles or enjoy it on its own for a filling, healthy meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze this stir fry for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works great as a substitute for ground turkey in this stir fry.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen broccoli and other frozen vegetables work perfectly in this recipe, making it even more convenient.

3. How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha to the stir fry for some extra heat.

4. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce if you’re short on time. However, making your own sauce adds extra flavor and control over the ingredients.

5. What can I serve this with?

This stir fry is delicious served over rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a complete meal.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

7. Can I use another oil instead of sesame oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil, though sesame oil adds a distinct flavor that’s perfect for stir fry.

8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, baby corn, or snow peas for more texture and variety.

10. How do I reheat this stir fry?

Reheat the stir fry on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Conclusion

This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is an easy, healthy, and flavorful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. With its delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, lean ground turkey, and colorful vegetables, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal the whole family will love.

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