Why Make This Recipe

Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowls are a fantastic choice for a quick, healthy meal. They combine lean turkey with a savory teriyaki sauce, served over rice, making it satisfying and flavorful. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a great way to sneak in some vegetables, making it a wholesome option for lunch or dinner.

How to Make Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowls

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup sliced carrots (optional)
1/2 cup steamed broccoli (optional)
1 tablespoon chili flakes (optional, for spice)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, until the turkey is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce mixture.
Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over the cooked turkey. Stir well to coat the turkey evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the turkey.
While the sauce simmers, prepare the rice according to package instructions if it’s not already cooked.
Serve the teriyaki turkey mixture over a bowl of warm rice. Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, sliced carrots, steamed broccoli, and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired for added heat.
Enjoy your Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowl immediately!

How to Serve Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowls

These rice bowls are perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Serve them warm and allow each person to customize their bowl with their favorite toppings. They can also be a great option for a potluck or gathering with friends.

How to Store Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowls

To store leftovers, let the rice bowls cool down and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Tips to Make Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowls

Use fresh vegetables for a crunchier texture. Adding bell peppers or snap peas can enhance the dish.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes.
Try marinating the ground turkey in the sauce before cooking for even more flavor.

Variation

You can easily swap ground turkey for chicken or beef if you prefer. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with tofu or edamame.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey and sauce in advance. Just store it separately from the rice in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to eat.

Is it gluten-free?
If you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

How can I make it less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or even omit it altogether for a less sweet flavor while still enjoying the savory taste of the sauce.