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Easy Leftover Turkey Tacos


  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 tacos 1x

Description

Transform your holiday turkey leftovers into vibrant, zesty tacos with this quick and easy recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering, these pulled turkey tacos are packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, pickled red onions

  • Instructions

    1. 1. Prepare the Turkey: If your leftover turkey isn’t already shredded, pull it apart into bite-sized pieces. You can use your hands or two forks to achieve a nice “pulled” texture. Aim for pieces that are easy to eat in a taco.

    2. 2. Saute Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. This step builds the flavor base for your turkey.

    3. 3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

    4. 4. Combine with Turkey and Liquids: Add the shredded turkey to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice. Stir everything together well, ensuring the turkey is coated in the spices and liquid.

    5. 5. Simmer and Flavor: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 8-10 minutes. This allows the turkey to absorb all the wonderful flavors and become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

    6. 6. Finish with Freshness: Remove the lid, stir in the fresh cilantro, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too wet, you can uncover it and cook for a few more minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.

    7. 7. Warm Tortillas: While the turkey is simmering, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 30 seconds, or quickly over an open flame for a slightly charred flavor.

    8. 8. Assemble and Serve: Serve the warm turkey mixture in the warmed tortillas, allowing everyone to add their favorite toppings.

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 15 minutes
    • Category: main dish
    • Method: sauteing
    • Cuisine: mexican

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 2 tacos

    Keywords: turkey, tacos, leftovers, quick, easy, mexican, weeknight, family, pulled turkey, holiday