Smoked turkey breast is a delicious holiday centerpiece. The smoky, savory flavor makes it a treat that can be enjoyed any time of year. However, like any leftover, properly reheating smoked turkey breast is key to preserving that signature taste and texture.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the best techniques for reheating smoked turkey breast so you can revive those leftovers without drying them out Whether you have Thanksgiving leftovers or deli-packaged smoked turkey, follow these simple steps for reheated success!
Why Proper Reheating Matters
Smoked turkey has a delicate texture that can quickly dry out if not reheated properly Exposure to high, direct heat causes the proteins in the meat to squeeze out natural moisture Once that moisture is lost, the turkey flesh becomes tough and stringy.
To avoid this, the name of the game is slow, even heating. We want to gently warm the turkey throughout without applying too much heat too fast. When done right, reheated smoked turkey breast should be just as juicy, tender and flavorful as the original.
Prep Your Leftovers
Before reheating, prepare your smoked turkey breast:
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If frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature.
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Remove any stuffing and carve turkey into smaller portions or slices. Thinner pieces will reheat more quickly.
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Pat turkey pieces dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the surface can make meat steam versus heat evenly.
With your turkey prepped, it’s time to reheat. Keep reading for techniques using the oven, stovetop, microwave and slow cooker.
Oven Reheating Method
The oven allows for slow, gentle reheating that evenly penetrates the meat. This is my recommendation for the juiciest results.
What You’ll Need:
- Leftover smoked turkey breast, prepared as above
- Aluminum foil
- Shallow baking dish or oven-safe plate
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 325°F.
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Place turkey slices or pieces in a single layer in a shallow baking dish. Spread out evenly.
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Tightly cover dish with aluminum foil to seal in moisture.
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Bake turkey for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Let rest 5 minutes before serving. The temperature will continue rising as it rests.
The relatively low oven temperature and covered dish are key to preserving moisture. The turkey heats through gradually without drying out. Letting the meat rest afterwards allows juices to redistribute evenly.
Stovetop Skillet Method
Reheating smoked turkey breast on the stovetop in a skillet or pan is a quicker method. Be sure to use low to medium heat to avoid drying the turkey out.
What You’ll Need:
- Leftover smoked turkey breast, prepared as above
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan
- Butter or oil
- tongs
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
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Heat skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1 tsp butter or oil.
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When butter is melted or oil is shimmering, add turkey pieces in a single layer.
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Cook turkey pieces for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping once. Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Once reheated, transfer turkey to a plate. Cover with foil and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
The key is using medium-low or low heat to gently warm the turkey throughout without excess browning or crisping of the exterior. Butter or oil prevents sticking. Resting afterwards allows juices to redistribute.
Microwave Reheating
The microwave provides a fast reheating option, but extra care must be taken to prevent drying out the turkey. Use lower power and cook in short bursts to warm the turkey gently.
What You’ll Need:
- Leftover smoked turkey breast, prepared as above
- Microwave-safe plate
- Paper towel
Instructions:
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Place turkey slices on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer.
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Cover with a paper towel to prevent splatter and trap in steam.
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Microwave on 50% power in 30 second intervals until warmed through, flipping turkey halfway. Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Let rest 2 minutes before serving.
Microwaving can produce hot spots that overcook the turkey. The lower power setting, short cooking times and paper towel help prevent this. Letting the turkey rest afterwards allows the temperature to equilibrate.
Slow Cooker Method
Using a slow cooker may seem unusual for reheating, but it actually works quite well for larger portions of smoked turkey breast. The low heat tenderizes the meat.
What You’ll Need:
- Leftover smoked turkey breast, prepared as above
- Slow cooker
- Chicken or turkey stock
Instructions:
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Place turkey portions in the slow cooker. Add 1⁄2 cup stock or broth.
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Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours until turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Carefully remove turkey pieces. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
The lengthy cooking and steam created from the stock tenderizes the turkey breast while heating it through gradually to retain moisture.
Serving Reheated Turkey
Once your smoked turkey breast is properly reheated, you’re ready to serve it in any number of delicious ways:
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Slice it for sandwiches or wraps
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Dice it up for salads or casseroles
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Shred it for soups, chilis or BBQ dishes
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Pair it with your favorite sauces or glazes
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Add it to eggs scrambles, omelets or quiches
With proper reheating, your possibilities are endless for enjoying smoked turkey leftovers for days to come. Follow these techniques for tender, juicy results every time.
Common Questions about Reheating Smoked Turkey
Reheating smoked turkey breast correctly requires some finesse. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How do you know when smoked turkey breast is done reheating?
Use an instant read meat thermometer to check internal temperature. Turkey breast should reach 165°F at the thickest part. When pierced with a fork, reheated turkey should feel hot to the touch.
Can you reheat smoked turkey in the oven?
Yes, the oven is actually the recommended method for even, gentle reheating. Use a low temperature around 325°F and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying.
Is it OK to reheat smoked turkey in the microwave?
You can use the microwave but use caution. Cook at a lower power in short intervals. Covering with a paper towel prevents splatter and retains moisture. Let rest before serving.
How long is reheated smoked turkey safe to eat?
Reheated leftover turkey breast should be consumed within 3-4 days and refrigerated promptly in shallow airtight containers. Discard any turkey that smells, looks or tastes off. When reheating after refrigeration, ensure turkey again reaches 165°F.
Can you freeze and reheat smoked turkey?
Frozen smoked turkey holds up well when thawed and reheated. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating using one of the methods above. Cooked turkey keeps 3-4 months in the freezer.
What’s the best way to reheat smoked turkey to prevent drying?
Low, slow reheating is key. The oven and slow cooker methods allow for gradual heating without moisture loss. Use lower microwave power settings in short intervals. Keep foil over turkey and let rest before serving.
Enjoy Your Leftovers!
Follow this reheating guide and you can confidently revive leftover smoked turkey breast for flavorful, juicy meals any time. With proper storage and careful reheating, you can extend your holiday centerpiece turkey or packaged deli turkey for easy weeknight dinners. Just remember low and slow reheating works best.
