If you’re anything like me, weeknight dinners need to be quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. That’s exactly why I’m so excited to share this 20-Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe — it’s a total game changer when you want a wholesome meal on the table fast. The combination of lean ground turkey with fresh veggies and a beautifully balanced teriyaki sauce just hits the spot every time.

What makes this recipe really special is how it blends speed with nourishing ingredients, perfect for busy nights or when you want to meal prep for the week. I’ve made it countless times, and I love how adaptable it is — you can mix up the veggies or spice levels to suit your taste, but the core flavors always shine through. You’re going to enjoy how effortlessly it comes together, making dinner feel like less of a chore and more of a treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this stir fry lies in its fresh, simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. I always look for a good quality ground turkey and crisp vegetables when shopping because they make all the difference in the final dish.

Avocado oil: I prefer this oil for its high smoke point, perfect for stir frying without burning.
Ground turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a protein-packed, healthy base without excess fat.
Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth—diced small for quick cooking.
Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that vibrant aroma and flavor.
Broccoli florets: I like using small crowns chopped into bite-size pieces so they cook evenly.
Red bell pepper: Sliced thinly for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Carrots: Thinly sliced or pre-shredded saves prep time while adding crunch and sweetness.
Chicken bone broth: Adds richness to the teriyaki sauce with a subtle savory base.
Coconut aminos: A great soy sauce alternative that’s lower in sodium and gives a slightly sweet flavor.
Coconut sugar: Just a hint of sweetness to balance the sauce perfectly.
Unseasoned rice vinegar: Adds a gentle tang to brighten the sauce.
Sesame oil: A little goes a long way to add that toasty, nutty finish.
Fresh ginger: Grated or minced, it brings fresh zing and complexity to the sauce.
Arrowroot starch: This thickens the sauce beautifully without clumping.
Prepared rice: I love using frozen pre-cooked rice for convenience without sacrificing texture.
Green onions: Thinly sliced for fresh garnish and a mild onion bite.
Sriracha: For those who want a little heat, it’s my go-to spicy kick.
Sesame seeds: Toasted seeds add crunch and a subtle nutty flavor—perfect finishing touch.

Variations

One of the best things about this 20-Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe is how flexible it is. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by swapping veggies or adding spices depending on what you have on hand or what you’re craving that day.

Vegetarian version: I once swapped the ground turkey for firm tofu and loved the way it soaked up the teriyaki sauce! Just press the tofu well before cooking for best results.
Spicy twist: Adding a teaspoon of chili flakes or using extra sriracha turns up the heat when I’m in the mood for a little fire.
Seasonal veggies: Swap broccoli for snap peas, or add sliced mushrooms or zucchini — it’s a fantastic way to use whatever’s fresh at the market.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to coconut aminos, but double-check the brands you buy just in case.
Meal prep style: I often double the recipe and separate into containers for grab-and-go lunches during the week.

How to Make 20-Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Heat and cook the turkey and onions

Start by heating about a tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your diced onion and the ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break up the turkey as it cooks—this helps it brown nicely and cook evenly. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the turkey loses its pink color and the onions start to soften. You’ll know you’re on the right track when the turkey smells savory and the pan starts to look deliciously golden.

Step 2: Add the garlic and veggies

Next, toss in the minced garlic, broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and red bell pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. The veggies should get a bit tender but still have that crunch we’re aiming for in a good stir fry. Keep everything moving in the pan so the garlic doesn’t burn—if it smells bitter, lower the heat a touch. This is a great time to get your sauce prepped while the veggies finish up.

Step 3: Whisk together the teriyaki sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken bone broth, coconut aminos, coconut sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and arrowroot starch. This mixture is what gives your stir fry that signature glossy, flavorful teriyaki coating. Make sure to whisk until the arrowroot starch dissolves fully; clumps can be a drag!

Step 4: Combine and thicken the sauce

Pour the teriyaki sauce right over the turkey and veggies in your skillet. Turn the heat slightly down to medium and stir everything together well. Let the sauce cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, as it thickens to a silky glaze. The smells here are honestly irresistible—I always find myself sneaking tastes!

How to Serve 20-Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe

A top view of many small white bowls and glass bowls with raw ingredients neatly placed on a white marbled surface with faint patterned tiles. In the center right, a white bowl holds pale pink ground meat with visible lines. To the right, a clear bowl is filled with bright orange shredded carrots. Below that, another clear bowl is full of fresh green broccoli florets. Below left, a clear bowl has bright red-orange sliced bell pepper strips. Above the meat bowl and to the left, a clear bowl contains finely chopped white onion. To the top left, a ceramic white bowl contains a mustard-yellow dressing with black specks. Next to it, a white bowl holds a dark, almost black soy sauce. A small white cup above holds bright green oil or liquid. Several small white cups are scattered with light brown spices, light crushed garlic, light brown liquid, crushed yellow garlic, and white powder. The image is bright and clean, showing each ingredient clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping this stir fry with a handful of sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds—they add freshness and a nice crunch that makes the dish feel complete. If you like a little heat like me, a drizzle of sriracha on top never fails to brighten things up.

Side Dishes

Serving the stir fry over steamed rice is my go-to for soaking up all that delicious sauce. I often use frozen pre-cooked jasmine or brown rice to save time without sacrificing taste. For something lighter, cauliflower rice is a tasty alternative that pairs beautifully too!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, I’ve served this ground turkey teriyaki stir fry in lettuce wraps at small dinner parties, which always impresses guests with minimal effort. Or try it over cauliflower rice in a colorful bowl topped with avocado slices and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a vibrant, healthy meal feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store really well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually portion mine out into single servings to make lunches or quick dinners a breeze. Just make sure the stir fry has cooled before sealing it up to prevent condensation, which can make vegetables soggy.

Freezing

I’ve also frozen this stir fry successfully, though the veggies might soften a bit upon thawing. To freeze, pack into freezer-safe containers or bags and label with the date. It’s a lifesaver to have a homemade meal ready that just needs reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s shine if it’s thickened too much. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely to keep moisture in and stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey in this stir fry?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute and has a similar flavor and texture. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
Is this 20-Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, thanks to using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free chicken bone broth and check labels on other ingredients if you’re very sensitive.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! This stir fry is great for meal prep. Make a batch at the start of the week, store it in the fridge, and reheat portions as needed for quick meals.
What’s the best way to thicken the teriyaki sauce?

The arrowroot starch in the recipe is key for thickening. Just whisk it well into the sauce before adding to the skillet and cook gently while stirring to achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
Can I make this stir fry spicier?

Yes, you can add chili flakes during cooking or top your plate with extra sriracha. I often do both when I’m craving a little extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This 20-Minute Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry Recipe has become my go-to when I want to whip up something healthy, comforting, and packed with flavor but without any fuss. It’s quick enough for busy nights and versatile enough to keep coming back to with new twists each time. If you give it a try, I’m confident you’ll find it as delicious and satisfying as I do — it’s like a warm hug on a plate, ready in the time it takes to catch your breath after a long day.