If you’re looking for a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in a snap, this Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. Ground turkey brings a lean protein to the plate, while the homemade teriyaki sauce—sweetened with honey and brown sugar and brightened with fresh ginger and orange zest—creates a perfectly balanced glaze. Tossed with crisp broccoli, sweet carrots, and tender onions, this stir fry not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a colorful, nutritious touch to any weeknight dinner. You’ll find yourself reaching for this Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe again and again once you discover how simple, quick, and delicious it truly is!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe plays an essential role, from building the deeply flavorful sauce to adding crunchy textures and vibrant colors that make this dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this kitchen favorite with ease.
- Soy sauce: The salty umami base of the teriyaki sauce that brings that signature savory depth.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness that balances the soy sauce perfectly.
- Water, divided: Used to thin the sauce and dissolve cornstarch for that perfect glossy finish.
- Honey: Infuses a natural sweetness and a subtle floral note into the sauce.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory punch that wakes up every bite.
- Fresh ginger, grated or minced: Offers a zesty spice that’s essential in traditional teriyaki flavors.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce, giving it that luscious, clinging texture to coat everything evenly.
- Orange zest: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma and surprising dimension to the sauce.
- Ground turkey: A lean, tender protein that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma and flavor that’s classic in Asian stir-fry dishes.
- Broccoli florets, fresh or frozen: Adds crunch, vibrant green color, and essential nutrients.
- Small onion, diced: Sweetness and texture that rounds out the vegetable mix.
- Shredded carrots: A splash of color and subtle sweetness that pairs harmoniously with the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the other flavors.
How to Make Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
Start by whisking together most of your sauce ingredients in a small saucepan. Combine 3/4 cup of water, soy sauce, minced garlic, fresh ginger, honey, and brown sugar over medium heat, gently bringing it to a low boil. This is where all those sweet and savory notes begin to meld together. Next, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of water with cornstarch until dissolved, then stir it slowly into the simmering sauce to thicken it beautifully. Finish by stirring in the orange zest; this brightens the sauce with a fresh citrusy kick that lifts the entire dish. Once thick and glossy, set the sauce aside to keep it warm and ready for the stir fry.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey and Vegetables
Heat sesame oil in your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook just until softened and fragrant, about a few minutes. Then add the ground turkey, breaking it apart and stirring often until it’s cooked through and beautifully browned — this builds the base flavor. Next, add the broccoli and shredded carrots, stirring them in so they start to soften but still keep a satisfying crunch. This mix of textures is what makes the stir fry so addictive and lively.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over your cooked turkey and vegetables. Gently stir everything together so every bite is coated with that luscious, sticky glaze. Let it simmer just long enough to marry the flavors and warm everything evenly, about a minute or two. This step is where the magic really happens, transforming simple ingredients into a harmonious dish full of layered tastes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to enjoy! Serve your Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe piping hot over a bed of steamed white or brown rice, or try it over noodles for a fun twist. This dish comes together quickly but delivers big on taste and satisfaction.
How to Serve Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions on top to give a small burst of texture and extra flavor. A few thin slices of fresh red chili can also add a nice touch of heat if you love a little spice in your stir fry.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs beautifully with simple steamed rice to soak up every bit of the teriyaki sauce. For a low-carb option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or a crisp Asian-style cucumber salad. These sides balance the warm, sweet savoriness of the main dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve your Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe in pineapple bowls or over coconut rice to add a tropical vibe that complements the citrusy notes in the sauce. Or try layering it over a bed of steamed quinoa for an extra nutritional boost with a nutty flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often taste even better the next day as they meld further, making it an excellent choice for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the stir fry in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing. When thawed, the texture of the vegetables might soften a bit, but the delicious teriyaki flavor will remain intact and comforting.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook so the vegetables stay tender-crisp. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce during reheating helps retain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use white meat turkey breast instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground white turkey breast if you want a leaner option. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may cook a little faster and can dry out if overcooked. Adding a bit of oil helps keep it moist.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe?
Definitely. Firm tofu or tempeh work wonderfully when marinated in the teriyaki sauce and stir-fried with the vegetables. Just press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking for the best texture.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen broccoli florets and shredded carrots are perfect here and make this recipe even more convenient. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water to avoid a watery stir fry.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe isn’t inherently spicy. It’s designed to be sweet and savory. However, if you like heat, feel free to add chili flakes or fresh sliced chili peppers during cooking or as a garnish.
What can I use if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder or potato starch to thicken the teriyaki sauce. Use the same quantity, and mix it well with cold water before adding to the sauce to prevent lumps.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a dish that looks beautiful, smells irresistible, and comes together quickly on a busy day, and this Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe ticks all those boxes. It’s a versatile, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that feels special without any fuss. I hope you give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight go-to!
Print
Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal featuring tender ground turkey and fresh vegetables tossed in a homemade teriyaki sauce. The sauce is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, enhanced with garlic, ginger, and a hint of orange zest. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy and healthy dinner option served best over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3/4 cup water, divided (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Stir Fry
- 1 pound 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 the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a low boil while stirring to dissolve the ingredients. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup water and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly add this cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, stir in the orange zest, and set the sauce aside.
- Cook the Stir Fry: Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent. Add the ground turkey and cook thoroughly, breaking it up with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Next, add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots, cooking until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked turkey and vegetables. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld together and the sauce is heated through.
- Serve: Spoon the teriyaki turkey stir fry over cooked rice of your choice. Serve immediately and enjoy this deliciously balanced meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- Use fresh vegetables if possible, but frozen broccoli works well too.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, adjust the cornstarch amount accordingly.
- Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
