Name: Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ½ cup low sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup water; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; ½ tablespoon garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 1 pound ground turkey meat (80/20); 1 medium carrot, julienned; 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon thinly sliced ginger; 1 stalk green onion, sliced; Toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish); Cooking oil (such as vegetable or sesame oil) as needed; Cooked rice (amount as desired for 4 servings)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 32 reviews

If you are looking for a vibrant, flavorful meal that comes together quickly with wholesome ingredients, the Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish combines juicy ground turkey simmered in a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce, paired with crisp broccoli and sweet carrots, all nestled on a bed of fluffy rice. It’s not only a breeze to make but also packed with bright colors and textures that make every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings a satisfying, savory-sweet balance that keeps everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds a neat rectangular layer of pale pink ground meat with smooth, wavy texture lines running across it, centered in the image. Surrounding the plate are small white bowls and clear glass bowls filled with various ingredients: chopped green onions with bright green and light yellow colors, brown sugar granules, dark soy sauce, light beige minced garlic on a black measuring spoon, white flour on a silver measuring spoon, a green paste in a small white bowl, and a bowl of light brown cooked rice. A bowl in the foreground contains fresh, vibrant green broccoli florets. All items rest on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward but essential ingredients. Each element plays a vital role—whether it’s adding sweetness, crunch, or that signature teriyaki punch—making the dish both comforting and exciting to the palate.

½ cup low sodium soy sauce: Provides the salty, umami foundation of the teriyaki sauce without overwhelming the dish.
¼ cup water: Balances the soy sauce and helps create the perfect sauce consistency.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds natural sweetness with a hint of molasses richness.
1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that brightens up the sauce beautifully.
½ tablespoon minced garlic: Instantly warms the flavor profile with its robust aroma.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce into that perfect, clingy glaze.
2 tablespoons water (for slurry): Helps dissolve the cornstarch for smooth sauce thickening.
1 pound ground turkey (80/20 blend preferred): The lean protein star that absorbs the sauce tenderly.
1 medium julienned carrot: Adds crunch and a sweet freshness to the bowl.
2 cups broccoli florets: Offers a vibrant green pop and healthy bite-sized florets.
1 teaspoon minced garlic (for stir-fry): Amplifies the savory depth right in the pan.
1 teaspoon thinly sliced ginger: Provides a gentle spicy warmth that balances the sweetness.
1 stalk sliced green onions: A fresh, crisp garnish that adds color and mild pungency.
Toasted sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle these on top for a nutty crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

Start by making a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce later—mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth and set it aside. In a small saucepan, combine low sodium soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Warm this mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer gently. Now stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for about 30 seconds until the sauce thickens into a glossy, velvety teriyaki glaze. Once thickened, turn off the heat and keep the sauce warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

While your sauce is resting, steam 2 cups of broccoli florets for approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This quick steam ensures the broccoli stays bright green and crisp-tender, which adds a wonderful fresh crunch to contrast the savory turkey.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Turkey Stir Fry

Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of cooking oil. Once hot, toss in the minced garlic and thinly sliced ginger, sautéing until fragrant—about 15 seconds. Add the ground turkey to the pan, cooking it until it’s nearly done (about 5 minutes), breaking it up with your spatula for even browning and tenderness. Pour in your homemade teriyaki sauce and stir everything well, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes so the turkey absorbs that magnificent flavor.

Step 4: Add Carrots and Broccoli

Stir in the julienned carrots first, mixing and cooking for just about a minute to keep their crunch vibrant. Next, fold in the steamed broccoli florets, letting them mingle with the turkey and sauce for about 30 seconds before turning off the heat. This layering of vegetables adds texture, sweetness, and freshness that make this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe truly shine.

Step 5: Assemble Your Rice Bowl

Serve the fragrant, saucy ground turkey and vegetable stir-fry over freshly cooked rice. Top it with sliced green onions and optional toasted sesame seeds for a final touch of flavor and a lovely presentation.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe

The dish is shown in a large silver bowl filled with a mix of cooked ground meat, bright green broccoli florets, and thin bright orange carrot strips. The ground meat is light brown with a slightly crumbly texture, spread evenly throughout. The broccoli pieces are fresh and chunky, placed on top and mixed within the meat, while the carrot strips are scattered thin and long across the whole dish. There are small drops of sauce that add a slight shine to the ingredients, making the colors look richer. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The simple addition of sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds elevates the dish effortlessly. These garnishes not only add a burst of color but also introduce contrasting textures and layers of mild oniony and nutty notes that complement the teriyaki flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This rice bowl works wonderfully as a standalone meal but can be paired with light sides such as a crunchy Asian cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or steamed edamame. These sides add fresh, tangy, or savory elements that enhance your dining experience without overpowering the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe in colorful bowls for a cheerful table setting. For a fun twist, you can also layer the ingredients in glass jars or mason jars, creating a visually appealing layered lunch option that’s easy to transport and enjoy anywhere.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to keep the textures and flavors fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked turkey and vegetable mixture without the rice in a sealed container for up to 2 months. The rice tends to get mushy after freezing, so it’s best to cook fresh rice when you reheat the dish.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage, ensuring you get that luscious teriyaki coating with every bite.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well with the teriyaki sauce, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor and texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the ground turkey for firm tofu or tempeh, and keep the same sauce and vegetables to enjoy a meat-free variation that’s just as satisfying.

How spicy is the Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe?

This dish is mild by default, focusing on savory and sweet elements. However, you can easily add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha if you like a little kick.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Short-grain white rice or jasmine rice works beautifully here because of their fluffy texture and mild aroma, which complements the flavors without overpowering them.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the soy sauce for tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure your other ingredients like rice vinegar are gluten-free as well. The rest of the recipe naturally fits a gluten-free diet.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl Recipe is truly one of those meals that brings together ease, taste, and nutrition seamlessly. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy a weeknight dinner that feels special without any stress. I can’t wait for you to try it out and see how quickly it becomes a go-to in your kitchen too!