If you are craving a dish that combines the savory sweetness of teriyaki with the lean, tender goodness of turkey, you are in for a treat with this Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe. It’s a vibrant, colorful meal loaded with fresh vegetables and bursting with bold flavors that come together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and umami notes, all wrapped up with tender ground turkey and a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce that makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients that pack a punch is the secret behind this recipe’s success. Each element adds its own unique layer of flavor, texture, and color, bringing this stir fry to life in your kitchen.
- Soy sauce: The salty, savory base for the teriyaki sauce that creates depth of flavor.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce.
- Water: Used to adjust sauce consistency and help dissolve the cornstarch for a silky finish.
- Honey: Introduces a gentle floral sweetness that elevates the sauce’s complexity.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Brings a pungent aroma and sharpness to brighten the sauce.
- Fresh ginger, grated: Adds a spicy, warming zing essential for authentic Asian flavors.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a perfect glossy glaze that coats every morsel.
- Orange zest: Provides a fragrant citrus lift that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Ground turkey: The lean protein star of the dish that absorbs all the terrific sauce flavors.
- Sesame oil: Imparts a nutty richness for that unmistakable stir-fry signature aroma.
- Broccoli florets: Add crunch, color, and a fresh vegetal bite that balances the meatiness.
- Small onion, diced: Sweats down into sweet softness, melding well with turkey and veggies.
- Shredded carrots: Offer a vibrant pop of orange along with mild sweetness and crunch.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the layers of flavor.
How to Make Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
Start by combining soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar with most of the water in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture gently over medium heat until it reaches a low boil. In the meantime, whisk cornstarch with the remaining water to make a smooth slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Allow it to thicken into a glossy, velvety glaze, then remove from heat and fold in fresh orange zest for an uplifting citrus note. Set this fragrant sauce aside while you prepare the rest of the stir fry.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables and Turkey
Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until tender and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks until no longer pink and starting to brown slightly. Next, add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots, stirring frequently until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, preserving their vibrant colors and fresh texture. This layering of cooking times ensures every ingredient reaches its ideal doneness.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the turkey and vegetables. Stir thoroughly so every piece becomes beautifully coated in the sweet and savory glaze. Allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes, letting all the flavors mingle and intensify. This final step brings the whole dish together in a harmonious medley of textures and tastes.
How to Serve Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions over the top just before serving to add a delightful crunch and a burst of fresh flavor. A light drizzle of chili oil can also offer a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous. These small touches elevate the dish both visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
Serve your Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe with fluffy steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome, hearty base. If you prefer something lighter, cauliflower rice or quinoa work beautifully, soaking up the flavorful sauce without overwhelming the dish. A side of simple miso soup or seaweed salad also pairs remarkably well to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this stir fry into a lettuce wrap by scooping spoonfuls into crisp iceberg or butter lettuce leaves. You can also pack it into warm pita pockets or use it as a filling for rice paper rolls with fresh herbs for a handheld treat. These presentations add variety and make the dish perfect for casual dinners or lunchbox delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain the freshest texture and taste. Flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
This stir fry freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen leftovers maintain their quality for up to 2 months. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture if needed. Stir frequently to heat evenly and avoid drying out the turkey. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals until hot throughout. This dish tastes best when warmed gently.
FAQs
Can I use turkey breast instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! You can dice turkey breast into small pieces or thin strips and cook them similarly. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly since breast meat cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, so for a gluten-free version of the Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe, substitute with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn all make wonderful additions. Add vegetables according to their cooking times so everything finishes tender and crisp.
How spicy is this dish?
This Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe is mild by default, focusing on sweet and savory flavors. If you like heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, a dash of chili sauce, or fresh sliced chilies either during cooking or as a garnish.
What can I use instead of cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, arrowroot powder or potato starch work as excellent thickening substitutes. Use the same quantity and dissolve it in water before adding it to the sauce.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and joyful about whipping up this Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe—a dish that’s as wholesome as it is flavorful. It’s quick enough for busy nights, yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the delightful blend of tastes and textures that only a homemade teriyaki stir fry can offer. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A flavorful and healthy Teriyaki Turkey Stir Fry loaded with tender ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and a homemade tangy teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup water, divided
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Main Ingredients
- 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: Combine 3/4 cup water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a low boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup water and cornstarch until smooth, then slowly pour it into the boiling sauce while whisking continuously. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, stir in the orange zest, and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Stir Fry: Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the ground turkey and cook thoroughly until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the broccoli florets and shredded carrots, cooking until the vegetables turn tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes.
- Combine and Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked turkey and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly and allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the teriyaki turkey stir fry over steamed white or brown rice, and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal.
Notes
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty dish.
- Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or tofu for variation.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Make sure to whisk the cornstarch mixture well to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
