The Best Easy Leftover Turkey Tacos

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These leftover turkey tacos are the perfect solution for transforming your holiday leftovers into a delicious meal. Ideal for a quick dinner these tacos are packed with spices and topped with fresh, healthy ingredients.

You'll also love my leftover turkey curry, 15-minute turkey stir fry, and this chicken pie.

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⭐️ Why this recipe works
🧾 Ingredients overview
👩🏻‍🍳 Here's how to make it
📖 Variations
💡 Chef's Guide: Expert Tips
🍯 Storing and reheating leftovers
❓Recipe FAQ's
The Best Easy Leftover Turkey Tacos

⭐️ Why this recipe works

Utilizes Leftovers Efficiently: Perfect for using up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any meal.
Quick and Easy: Simple steps and minimal cooking time make this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Seasoning: The blend of paprika, cumin, and garlic powder gives the turkey a delicious, smoky flavor.
Versatile Toppings: Customizable with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, Greek yogurt, and cheese.
Healthy Option: Made with lean turkey and fresh ingredients, these tacos are a nutritious meal choice.

🧾 Ingredients overview

Leftover turkey: The main protein, providing a hearty base for the tacos.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions, adding a rich flavor.
Red onion: Adds sweetness to the tacos.
Paprika: Imparts a smoky, earthy flavor to the turkey.
Cumin: Enhances the savory, warm taste of the seasoning mix.
Garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
Brown sugar: Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness.
Chicken stock: Keeps the turkey moist and adds extra flavor.
Orange juice: Adds a hint of citrusy sweetness that complements the spices.
Flour tortillas: For holding all the fillings.
Avocado: Provides a creamy texture and healthy fats.
Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds a tangy, creamy element to the tacos.
Sriracha: Optional for those who like a bit of heat.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the warm taco filling.
Coriander (cilantro): Adds a fresh, herbal note.

For precise measurements and additional ingredients, refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

👩🏻‍🍳 Here's how to make it

Leftover Turkey Tacos recipe step-by-step

Mix the Spices: In a medium bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Toss the shredded turkey with the spice mixture until well-coated.

Cook the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened but not colored, about 5 minutes.

Cooking the turkey and in soft shell tacos.

Cook the Turkey: Add the seasoned turkey to the pan. Pour in the chicken stock and orange juice. Simmer gently, uncovered, until the liquid has been absorbed into the turkey, about 10 minutes.
Prepare the Toppings: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt or sour cream with the Sriracha until well combined. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to taste.
Assemble the Tacos: Place some of the spiced turkey filling into each tortilla shell. Add a few slices of fried onions, then top with the spiced (or plain) sour cream, avocado slices, and chopped coriander. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

📖 Variations

Protein Alternatives: Use leftover chicken or beef instead of turkey.
Tortilla Options: Swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha or add jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheese Varieties: Use feta or cotija cheese instead of cheddar.

💡 Chef's Guide: Expert Tips

Drawing on a decade of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens and Cordon Bleu training, I have compiled my top tips for recipe success.

Marinade Time: If possible, let the seasoned turkey marinate in the spice mixture overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Crisping Turkey: After simmering the turkey, spread it on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes to add a crispy texture.
Citrus Segmenting: For an extra burst of citrus, add segmented orange pieces directly to the tacos for a fresh, juicy element.

🍯 Storing and reheating leftovers

Fridge: Store the cooled turkey filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store tortillas and toppings separately to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the turkey filling in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat: To reheat the turkey filling, place it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave it in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

❓Recipe FAQ's

Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat?

Yes, this recipe works well with other leftover meats like chicken, beef, or even pork. Just adjust the seasoning and cooking time as needed.

How do I prevent the tacos from becoming soggy?

Ensure the turkey filling is not overly wet by simmering until most of the liquid is absorbed. Also, serve the tacos immediately after assembling to maintain the best texture.

What can I serve with these tacos to make a complete meal?

Serve the tacos with sides like Mexican street corn, a fresh tomato salad, or a light cabbage slaw to complement the flavors.

Looking for other Mexican-inspired recipes like this? Try these:

If you tried this Leftover Turkey Tacos please let me know in the comments below, and please leave a star rating while you're there!

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