Savory Teriyaki Turkey Muffins

Featured in: Savory Vibes

Enjoy deliciously moist turkey muffins infused with vibrant Japanese teriyaki flavors. Ground turkey is paired with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and carrot, then baked until golden. Each muffin is brushed with a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce for a savory, slightly sweet finish. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions to boost freshness and crunch. Perfect for high-protein meal prep, these muffins are versatile: serve them hot or cold, as a main dish or a hearty snack. For gluten-free options, substitute tamari and gluten-free panko. A flavorful, nutritious dish ideal for busy weeknights or packed lunches.

Updated on Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:23:00 GMT
Savory turkey muffins drizzled with teriyaki sauce, perfect for a hearty snack.  Save
Savory turkey muffins drizzled with teriyaki sauce, perfect for a hearty snack. | lickjoke.com

Savory turkey muffins infused with classic Japanese teriyaki flavors, baked to perfection and ideal as a protein-packed snack or main dish.

When I first made these muffins, my family was surprised by how much savory flavor and tenderness came from such a simple recipe. Their teriyaki glaze makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

  • Ground turkey: 500 g
  • Egg: 1 large
  • Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
  • Green onions: 2, finely sliced
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Fresh ginger: 1 tbsp, grated
  • Carrot: 1 medium, grated
  • Soy sauce: 1 tbsp (for mixture), plus 1/4 cup (for sauce)
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
  • Mirin: 2 tbsp
  • Honey (or maple syrup): 2 tbsp
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tbsp
  • Sesame oil: 1 tbsp
  • Cornstarch: 1 tsp, dissolved in 2 tsp water
  • Toasted sesame seeds: 1 tsp
  • Green onion (for garnish): 1, thinly sliced

Instructions

Preheat the oven:
Set oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
Mix turkey ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, panko, green onions, garlic, ginger, grated carrot, 1 tbsp soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
Shape muffins:
Divide mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing lightly to compact.
Bake muffins:
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until muffins are golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 74°C/165°F).
Make teriyaki sauce:
While muffins bake, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring, until thickened (about 1 to 2 minutes).
Release muffins:
Remove from oven, let cool for 2 to 3 minutes, then gently run a knife around edges to release.
Glaze and garnish:
Brush each muffin generously with warm teriyaki sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Golden turkey muffins infused with teriyaki, topped with sesame seeds and green onions.  Save
Golden turkey muffins infused with teriyaki, topped with sesame seeds and green onions. | lickjoke.com

My kids love grabbing these turkey muffins for their lunchboxes. They enjoy topping them with extra sauce at the table together.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these muffins with steamed rice and sautéed greens for a well-rounded meal. They are delicious hot or cold, perfect for meal prep.

Allergen Information

Contains eggs, soy, and gluten (from soy sauce and panko: substitute as needed for dietary needs).

Nutrition Highlights

Each muffin has just 110 calories, 11 g protein, 4 g fat, and 7 g carbohydrates, making them a light yet filling option.

Deliciously moist turkey muffins featuring aromatic teriyaki flavors, ideal for meal prep. Save
Deliciously moist turkey muffins featuring aromatic teriyaki flavors, ideal for meal prep. | lickjoke.com

Enjoy these savory turkey muffins as a flavorful boost to any meal. Their easy prep makes them a family favorite!

Recipe Guide

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well, and results in similarly moist, tender muffins with teriyaki flavor.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

What pairs well with these muffins?

Serve with steamed rice, sautéed greens, or a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced Japanese-inspired meal.

Are these muffins suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store in the fridge and enjoy cold or reheat gently for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Can I freeze these turkey muffins?

Yes, allow muffins to cool fully, then freeze in an airtight container. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Savory Teriyaki Turkey Muffins

Golden baked turkey muffins with Japanese-inspired teriyaki, ideal for savory protein-packed meals or snacks.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
25 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created by Hannah Brooks


Skill level Easy

Heritage Japanese-Inspired

Output 12 Portions

Nutrition guidelines No dairy

Components

Turkey Mixture

01 1.1 lb ground turkey
02 1 large egg
03 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
04 2 green onions, finely sliced
05 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
07 1 medium carrot, grated
08 1 tablespoon soy sauce
09 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Teriyaki Sauce

01 1/4 cup soy sauce
02 2 tablespoons mirin
03 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
04 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
05 1 tablespoon sesame oil
06 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 teaspoons water

Garnish

01 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
02 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Method

Phase 01

Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line each cup with paper liners.

Phase 02

Mix Turkey Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, grated carrot, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Gently fold together until just incorporated.

Phase 03

Portion Mixture: Spoon the turkey mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, gently pressing to compact each portion.

Phase 04

Bake Muffins: Place muffin tin on center rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and set. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Phase 05

Prepare Teriyaki Sauce: While the muffins bake, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add cornstarch slurry and whisk continuously until thickened, around 1–2 minutes.

Phase 06

Release Muffins: Allow muffins to cool in pan for 2–3 minutes. Run a thin knife around edges to help release each muffin from tin.

Phase 07

Glaze Muffins: Generously brush each turkey muffin with warm teriyaki sauce.

Phase 08

Finish and Serve: Sprinkle muffins with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately or at room temperature.

Tools needed

  • 12-cup muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Box grater
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Allergy details

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure.
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains soy
  • Contains gluten from panko breadcrumbs and soy sauce; substitute gluten-free ingredients as needed
  • Verify all processed ingredients for hidden allergens

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 110
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Proteins: 11 g