Turkey Fried Rice

I thought I knew fried rice until I had my first Teppanyaki fried rice, and that was it; I was hooked. There are many ways to make amazing fried rice, but in my book quick, easy and tasty always wins. This version can be made in 10 minutes flat if you use leftovers (another winner!), and what is better than a recipe that uses up turkey AND rice leftovers and turns them into a healthy, budget-friendly meal the whole family will devour?

In the kitchen, quick, easy, and tasty always wins for me, especially on busy weeknights. This version of turkey fried rice can be made in just 10 minutes flat if you use leftovers—another huge win in my book! What could be better than a recipe that turns turkey and rice leftovers into a healthy, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will devour? Not only does this dish save you time and effort, but it also allows you to reduce food waste and create something delicious from what might have been thrown away.

This Turkey Fried Rice is a perfect example of how to embrace leftovers creatively while ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Trust me; your family will be asking for seconds!

Health Benefits of Turkey Fried Rice

This Turkey Fried Rice is not just a tasty dish; it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that bring various health benefits:

  • Turkey: A lean source of protein, turkey helps build and repair tissues while supporting muscle health. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins and selenium, which play a crucial role in metabolism and immune function.
  • Rice: Using cold, cooked rice helps create a deliciously firm texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. Opt for brown rice for added fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
  • Peas and Carrots: These vegetables are low in calories but high in nutrients. They provide vitamins A, C, and K, along with dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping maintain healthy skin.
  • Egg: Eggs are a great source of protein and contain essential amino acids, supporting overall health and wellness. They also add a lovely richness to the dish.
  • Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic not only enhances the flavor but also offers potential health benefits, such as supporting heart health and reducing the risk of certain diseases.
  • Sesame Oil: This oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being. It also adds a unique, nutty flavor to the dish that elevates the taste.

Combining these ingredients ensures that this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a fantastic option for family meals.

How to Make Turkey Fried Rice

Follow these simple steps to whip up this delicious Turkey Fried Rice:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the cooked turkey breast and finely chop the onion and garlic.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
  3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through.
  4. Incorporate the Turkey: Add the chopped turkey breast to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables. Cook for another minute to heat the turkey.
  5. Scramble the Egg: Push the turkey and vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten egg into the empty side, scrambling it until fully cooked, then mix it into the turkey and veggies.
  6. Add the Rice: Gently fold in the cold, cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing everything well until heated through.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Turkey Fried Rice

Here are some tips to ensure your Turkey Fried Rice turns out perfectly:

  • Use Cold Rice: Cold, leftover rice works best for fried rice, as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If you’re cooking rice fresh, let it cool completely before using.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a larger batch, cook in batches to ensure even cooking and avoid steaming the ingredients. A hot skillet is key to achieving that perfect fried rice texture.
  • Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli based on your family’s preferences. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients!
  • Adjust the Sauces: Taste as you go, and adjust the oyster and soy sauce according to your desired flavor. A little bit of heat from chili sauce can also add a delightful kick.

How to Serve Turkey Fried Rice

Turkey Fried Rice is incredibly versatile and you can serve it in various ways:

  • Quick Weeknight Dinners: This dish makes for an easy, filling dinner that you can prepare in under 15 minutes, perfect for those hectic nights when you need a nutritious meal fast.
  • Lunchboxes: Pack it in lunchboxes for a nutritious and satisfying meal your kids will love, ensuring they get a balance of protein, veggies, and carbs.
  • Side Dish: Serve it as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters.

Embracing Leftovers with Flavor

This Turkey Fried Rice is the perfect example of how to embrace leftovers creatively and deliciously. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into a wholesome family meal. It honors the essence of comfort food while offering a healthy twist that keeps your loved ones coming back for more.

Whether you’re looking to utilize leftover turkey or simply craving a quick and tasty meal, this Turkey Fried Rice is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to customize based on your family’s preferences and is sure to become a regular in your healthy-ish meal rotation. Enjoy this dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also filled with love and nourishment!

Turkey Fried Rice

Recipe by Nevine BalighCourse: Dinner, Lunch, Uncategorized
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Ingredients

  • Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked, cold rice

  • 2 slices cooked turkey breast, chopped

  • 2 cups frozen peas and carrots

  • 1 Tablespoon sesame oil

  • 1 egg, beaten

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 Tablespoons oyster sauce (or to taste)

  • 1 Tablespoon soy sauce (or to taste)

  • Salt and  pepper, to taste

Directions

  • Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the cooked turkey breast and finely chop the onion and garlic.
  • In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
  • Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they’re heated through.
  • Add the chopped turkey breast to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables. Cook for another minute to heat the turkey.
  • Push the turkey and vegetable mixture to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten egg into the empty side, scrambling it until fully cooked, then mix it into the turkey and veggies.
  • Gently fold in the cold, cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste, mixing everything well until heated through.
  • Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

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