Need a quick dinner that everyone actually enjoys? This Ground Turkey Teriyaki is one of those easy weeknight meals that always works. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and comes together fast. Tender ground turkey, crisp vegetables, and a homemade teriyaki sauce make this a meal the whole family will happily eat—maybe even without complaints!

Ingredient Notes

• Ground turkey: I recommend using 85%–93% lean ground turkey for the best flavor and texture. Very lean turkey can turn out dry. Ground chicken or ground pork also work great.
• Sesame oil: Adds classic stir-fry flavor. If you don’t have it, olive oil or another cooking oil will work.
• Broccoli: Frozen broccoli is a great shortcut and saves prep time. Fresh broccoli florets work just as well.
• Carrots: Shredded carrots make this recipe extra quick and easy.
• Orange zest: Optional, but highly recommended. It adds fresh flavor and brightens the sauce. A splash of orange juice can also work.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger gives the best flavor, but ground ginger is perfectly fine if that’s what you have.
• Soy sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos also work well.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce. Arrowroot powder can be used instead.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

You can make the teriyaki sauce while the stir fry cooks, or prepare it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until needed.

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine:
   • 3/4 cup water
   • soy sauce
   • honey
   • brown sugar
   • garlic
   • ginger
   Heat over medium heat and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup water until completely smooth.

• Once the sauce begins to bubble, slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture while stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken quickly. Remove from heat right away, stir in the orange zest, and set aside.

Cook the Stir Fry

• Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the onions and cook for a few minutes until softened.
• Add the ground turkey and cook until fully browned.
• Stir in the broccoli and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are heated through and slightly tender. If using fresh vegetables, cook until they begin to soften and lightly brown.
• Reduce the heat to low and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors combine.
• Taste and add salt and pepper if needed.
• Serve over rice and top with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and extra orange zest if desired.

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Recipe Tips

• Try different proteins like ground chicken, pork, or beef. If using beef, drain excess grease after cooking.
• Add some heat with red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Mix in extra vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, baby corn, or mushrooms.
• Love extra sauce? Double the teriyaki sauce recipe for a saucier stir fry.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little water, soy sauce, or orange juice to thin it out.

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Serving Suggestions

This recipe is delicious served in many different ways:

• Over white rice or brown rice
• With cauliflower rice
• In lettuce wraps or lettuce cups
• Over rice noodles or egg noodles
• On top of fresh greens for a lighter meal

Top with:

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions
• Avocado
• Fresh cilantro

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Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.