Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry
If you’re on the hunt for a fast, flavorful, and family-approved meal, this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry is your weeknight dinner hero. It’s a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with a hint of citrus from fresh orange zest, all tossed together in a homemade teriyaki sauce that beats anything from a bottle. Ready in under 30 minutes and loaded with nutritious veggies, this dish checks all the boxes for a satisfying, balanced dinner—even on your busiest nights.
Ingredients
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup water divided
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or ½ tsp ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1 tablespoon orange zest optional, but highly recommended
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground turkey 85% lean for best flavor
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil or substitute olive oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
- 1 small onion diced (white or yellow)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ¾ cup water, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well and bring to a light boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and remaining ¼ cup water to create a slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens—this happens quickly! Remove from heat, stir in the orange zest, and set aside.
- Cook the Stir Fry: While the sauce is coming together, heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. the broccoli and shredded carrots to the pan. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the veggies are tender. If using frozen broccoli, cover the pan briefly to steam.
- Combine and Serve: Reduce heat to low and pour the teriyaki sauce over the stir fry. Stir to coat everything evenly and simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and freshness.
Notes
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.
- Extra saucy? Double the sauce and add as much as needed.
- Switch up the veggies: Try bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Try other proteins: Ground chicken, pork, or even tofu all work well.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
- Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or mixed greens.