Teriyaki Turkey and Pepper Stir-Fry

Name: Teriyaki Turkey and Pepper Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons teriyaki sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen Discoveries

I absolutely love making Teriyaki Turkey and Pepper Stir-Fry when I need a quick yet delicious meal. This dish bursts with flavors and colors, making it not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. The combination of tender turkey, fresh bell peppers, and a savory teriyaki sauce is simply irresistible. It's one of my go-to recipes because it comes together in just 30 minutes, allowing us to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Sophia

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:05:19.733Z

When I first decided to make this Teriyaki Turkey and Pepper Stir-Fry, I thought it would be a basic dish. But I quickly discovered how the right ingredients and method could elevate it. For instance, using fresh bell peppers adds not only crunch but also sweetness that balances the savory teriyaki sauce beautifully. I also like to marinate the turkey briefly, which infuses it with flavor before cooking.

One of my favorite tips is to stir-fry on high heat for a short period. This ensures that the turkey stays juicy while the vegetables maintain their vibrant color and crispness. It’s all about that perfect timing, and it makes the dish come alive in flavor and texture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Satisfying umami flavor from the homemade teriyaki sauce
Bright and colorful presentation with fresh bell peppers
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stir-Fry

Achieving the perfect stir-fry relies heavily on high heat and quick cooking. When you heat the vegetable oil, it should shimmer but not smoke. This is crucial for achieving that desirable 'wok hei' flavor. If you find your turkey releases too much moisture, consider draining some before adding the vegetables. This helps avoid a soggy stir-fry and keeps the textures distinct.

Another tip for a successful stir-fry is to add ingredients in the right order. Start with the ground turkey to ensure it's cooked thoroughly before introducing the more delicate vegetables. Adding them later helps maintain their crispness, which adds a nice texture contrast to the dish.

Ingredient Insights

Ground turkey is a lean protein choice that cooks quickly while absorbing flavors beautifully. To maintain moisture and richness, consider mixing it with a tablespoon of low-sodium chicken broth. This can enhance the flavor and help prevent it from drying out during cooking without adding too many extra calories.

Bell peppers add a vibrant touch and a sweet crunch to the stir-fry, but don’t hesitate to incorporate other vegetables like snap peas or carrots for additional color and nutrition. Each vegetable brings unique textures and flavors, which elevates the overall dish and can accommodate personal preferences.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Teriyaki Turkey and Pepper Stir-Fry can be easily made ahead of time for meal prepping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium heat. This allows the turkey to regain its moisture while ensuring the vegetables remain crisp, instead of using a microwave, which can lead to sogginess.

If you're considering freezing the stir-fry, do it before adding the sesame seeds. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly, adding fresh sesame seeds right before serving for that added crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

1 pound ground turkey
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients and slicing the bell peppers and broccoli florets. Mince the garlic and ginger, and set aside.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the garlic, ginger, bell peppers, and broccoli. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Incorporate Sauces

Pour the soy sauce and teriyaki sauce over the turkey and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your stir-fry hot!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some sliced green onions or chili flakes when serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa!

Flavor Variations

For a twist on traditional teriyaki flavor, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a bright, tropical note to your stir-fry. Experimenting with different sauces, such as a sweet chili sauce, can also create a delightful variation.

You might also like to try marinating the turkey in teriyaki sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This will deepen the flavor, especially if you enjoy a more pronounced taste. Marination can provide a richer base flavor that contrasts nicely with the fresh crunch of the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Teriyaki Turkey and Pepper Stir-Fry over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. The grains will soak up the savory sauces, making every bite delicious. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice as a base instead, which also adds a subtle crunch.

Garnishing with freshly chopped green onions or cilantro adds not just color but also a refreshing flavor that complements the umami richness of the dish. A squeeze of lime right before serving can brighten the flavors even further, making it a delightful and visually appealing meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stir-fry in advance and reheat it before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this stir-fry gluten-free.