Transform leftover Thanksgiving turkey into these flavor-packed and juicy Leftover Turkey Tacos! These leftover turkey carnitas are perfectly seasoned with a balance of smoky, sweet, citrusy, and savory ingredients. It's the perfect way to enjoy leftover turkey!
Tear or shred turkey into smaller pieces, best when it’s a combination of light and dark meat, but either can be used.
In a medium bowl add orange juice, juiced half a lime, green chiles, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika and honey, stir to combine. Add turkey to spice mixture and toss to coat.
In a medium pot or small dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil, add the turkey mixture and over medium-low heat simmer for 30 minutes until tender. Add a little chicken broth as it starts to dry out, you want it to stay moist. Shred turkey a bit more in the pot; turkey should be tender and shred easily.
About 10 minutes before the turkey is done, heat a heavy skillet (cast iron) over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil and saute the red onions until soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes, during the last minute, toss in the garlic and stir until fragrant.
Increase the heat to medium high heat, add a tablespoon more oil if needed and add the turkey, sautéing and turning the meat about every 5-6 minutes, for a total of 15 minutes. Meat should get a little crispy. Finish by squeezing half a lime over the meat. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Divide the meat into tacos, top with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Variations & Substitutions
You may use this same process with leftover chicken as well.
If you don’t have leftover Thanksgiving turkey but still want to try this tasty taco recipe, use about a pound of ground turkey and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Leave the green chilies out for a milder spice. You can also replace them with 1/2 - 1 teaspoon chili powder.
Add a tablespoon of adobo sauce and/or a chipotle pepper to the turkey mixture for a more authentic taco flavor.
Use taco seasoning instead of paprika, cumin, and garlic powder - or make homemade taco seasoning for your next Taco Tuesday!
If you don’t have enough Thanksgiving turkey leftovers for this recipe, add fresh chicken breasts or ground turkey.
Storage Tips
Freeze | Store the completed leftover Thanksgiving turkey taco mixture in the freezer for up to six months, but keep in mind that the longer it sits in the freezer, the more flavor will be lost.
Meal Prep | Store the leftover turkey carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days.
*Nutritional information includes corn tortillas, but no toppings.