How to Cook Juicy and Flavorful Turkey Chops on the Stove

Turkey chops make for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner. While chicken tends to be more popular, swapping in turkey chops once in a while can add variety to your dinner routine. Best of all, turkey cooks up fast on the stovetop, making it perfect for busy nights. This easy method will show you how to cook moist, tender turkey chops in a flavorful pan sauce right on your stove.

Benefits of Cooking Turkey Chops

There are many advantages to cooking up turkey chops for dinner:

• Quick cooking time – Turkey chops are smaller and thinner than chicken breasts. This means they cook much faster, usually in less than 15 minutes!

• Budget-friendly – Turkey is often cheaper than chicken or beef. Saving money while still enjoying a nutritious meal is a win-win.

• Lean and versatile – Turkey is a lean low-fat protein option. The mild flavor also makes it versatile to season or pair with different flavors.

• Nutrient-rich – Turkey contains niacin, vitamin B6, and phosphorus. It’s a great way to get quality protein in your diet.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking turkey chops on the stovetop is simple with just a few handy ingredients:

• Turkey chops – Look for about 1 chop per person. Opt for thinner chops around 1⁄2 to 1 inch thick.

• Oil – Use an oil with a high smoke point like avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil. Olive oil can also work.

• Seasonings – Kosher salt, black pepper, dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. Get creative with spice blends!

• Onion and garlic – Sautéed onion and garlic add tons of flavor.

• Low-sodium chicken or turkey broth – Provides moisture for a tasty pan sauce.

• Flour – Helps thicken the savory pan sauce.

• Butter – Adds a touch of richness. Optional, but recommended.

Easy Step-by-Step Stovetop Method

Follow these simple steps for juicy, flavor-packed pan seared turkey chops:

Step 1: Prepare the turkey chops

• Pat the turkey chops dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can cause splattering.

• Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings. This adds lots of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the turkey chops

• Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

• When oil is hot, add chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed.

• Remove chops and set aside on a plate when done.

Step 3: Make the pan sauce

• With chops removed, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté onion for 2-3 minutes.

• Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

• Whisk in 1-2 Tbsp flour to soak up drippings. Cook 2 minutes.

• Whisk in chicken broth and simmer until thickened.

• Add chops back to pan and spoon sauce over them. Cook a few more minutes.

• Remove from heat and stir in a pat of butter for added richness.

Step 4: Finish and serve

• Allow chops to rest 5 minutes before serving. This keeps them juicy.

• Serve turkey chops topped with the flavorful pan sauce. Enjoy with sides like rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Let chops rest after cooking for juicier meat.

-Cook over medium-high, not high heat. Too high of heat can dry out the chops.

• Avoid overcrowding the pan so chops brown properly. Don’t rush cooking.

• Use homemade or low-sodium broth for the healthiest sauce.

• Play with different spice rub combinations like garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and cumin.

• Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or other veggies in the pan sauce for extra flavor.

Flavor Variations

The basic pan searing method allows for lots of tasty flavor options:

Italian – Use Italian seasoning on chops. Sauté mushrooms. Add sun-dried tomatoes to sauce.

Tex-Mex – Rub with chili powder and cumin. Add chopped peppers and onions. Serve with avocado.

Mediterranean – Use thyme and oregano. Add lemon, olives, and feta cheese to pan.

Asian – Marinate chops in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger. Use sesame oil. Stir in green onions.

Simple Side Dishes

Here are some easy side dishes that pair deliciously with turkey chops:

• Fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or couscous

• Roasted root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, parsnips

• Sauteed spinach or kale

• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing

• Roasted broccoli with garlic and olive oil

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between turkey chops and turkey cutlets?

Turkey chops are thicker pieces taken from the breast meat. Cutlets are thin, broad slices. Both work great!

Can I use an air fryer instead of the stovetop?

Absolutely! Follow the same seasoning and cooking method at 400°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

What temperature should cooked turkey chops reach?

Cook until the thickest part of the chop reaches 165°F internally for food safety.

How long do cooked turkey chops last in the fridge?

Leftover cooked turkey chops will keep 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.

The Takeaway

There you have it! With just a few pantry staples and a quick stovetop sear, you can enjoy fast, delicious turkey chops for dinner any night of the week. The browned exterior and juicy interior topped with a simple pan sauce makes for a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy. So next time you’re tired of chicken, give flavorful turkey chops a try.