How to Make Mouthwatering Turkey Chops

Turkey chops are an underrated weeknight hero. These quick and easy cutlets pack a ton of flavor, come together fast, and make an easy, budget-friendly alternative to chicken or pork. If you’re looking to add turkey chops to your dinner rotation, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make succulent, juicy turkey chops right at home.

What Are Turkey Chops?

Turkey chops, also called turkey cutlets, are thin slices of meat cut from the turkey breast, usually around 1⁄2 to 1 inch thick Don’t confuse them with pork chops – turkey chops are white meat only, with no bone

Compared to a whole turkey breast or tenderloin, chops cook up faster since they are thinner. Their size also makes them perfect for weeknight meals. Turkey chops have a mild flavor that takes well to all kinds of seasonings and sauces.

You can find turkey chops near the poultry section of most well-stocked grocery stores. If you can’t find them pre-packaged, ask your butcher to slice some turkey breast for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Turkey chops themselves are the star of the show, but there are a few key ingredients that take them over the top:

• Oil: For pan-frying, use a neutral oil with high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil. Olive oil can also work.

• Salt and Pepper Season chops with salt and pepper before and after cooking Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper provide the best flavor

• Flour: Lightly coat chops in flour before frying to help achieve a crispy exterior. All-purpose flour works great.

• Spices and Herbs: Creole seasoning, garlic powder, dried thyme, paprika and cayenne pepper are all tasty options.

• Onions and Garlic: Sautee aromatics like onion and garlic to build deep flavor for pan sauces and gravies.

• Chicken or Turkey Stock: Use as the base for your sauce or gravy.

• Fresh Herbs: Chives, parsley or cilantro add brightness right before serving.

Easy Methods for Cooking Turkey Chops

From pan-frying to roasting, here are 3 foolproof ways to cook juicy, flavorful turkey chops.

Pan-Fry

Pan-frying is hands down the quickest and easiest way to cook up turkey chops for a fast weeknight dinner.

• Step 1: Heat 1-2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chops all over with salt and pepper. Dredge lightly in flour, shaking off excess.

• Step 2: Working in batches, cook chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

• Step 3: Remove chops to a plate. Lower heat and make a simple pan sauce with shallots, chicken stock and fresh herbs. Pour sauce over chops before serving.

Oven-Bake

For a hands-off approach, baked turkey chops deliver tender and juicy results every time.

• Step 1: Pre-heat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

• Step 2: Arrange chops on sheet and brush tops with oil. Season generously with salt, pepper and desired herbs or spices.

• Step 3: Roast for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until chops are completely cooked through.

• Step 4: Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle pan juices over the top.

Sauté and Simmer

For next-level flavor, browned turkey chops simmered in an herb-infused pan sauce is delicious.

• Step 1: Season chops with salt and pepper. In a skillet, brown chops over medium-high heat, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.

• Step 2: Reduce heat and add aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs to the pan drippings. Cook 1-2 minutes.

• Step 3: Whisk in chicken stock and desired seasonings. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.

• Step 4: Return chops to pan, spoon sauce over top, and simmer until heated through, about 5 more minutes.

Cooking Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Chops

• Pat turkey chops dry before seasoning or breading to help achieve a crispy exterior.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chops reach an internal temperature of 165°F when cooked.

• Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking in batches. Space chops out for even browning.

• Let chops rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

• Make a simple pan sauce while chops rest by deglazing the pan with chicken stock and fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Turkey chops pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some tasty options:

• Fluffy mashed potatoes, rice or couscous to soak up any pan sauces or gravies.

• Roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots or asparagus.

• Crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing to balance the meal.

• Warm dinner rolls, biscuits or cornbread for sopping up extra gravy.

• Pasta tossed with pesto, olive oil or garlic butter.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the microwave in 30 second intervals, checking between, until warmed through.

• For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken stock.

• Freeze cooked turkey chops wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags for 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between turkey chops and cutlets?

There is no difference. Turkey chops and cutlets refer to the same thin, boneless slices of turkey breast meat.

Can I substitute chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Turkey and chicken can be used interchangeably in recipes. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I know when turkey chops are done?

Chops are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are opaque throughout when cut into.

Can I pound turkey chops thinner?

Yes, you can gently pound the chops to a more even 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Thinner chops cook slightly faster.

What if my chops are dry or overcooked?

Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking and let chops rest before slicing to maximize juiciness. Serve dry chops sliced thin and topped with a flavorful sauce or gravy.

Time to Get Cooking!

There you have it – everything you need to know to shop for, prepare and cook up deliciously juicy and flavorful turkey chops. With a variety of quick, easy cooking methods and serving suggestions, you’ll be all set to add turkey chops into your regular recipe rotation. Give one of these recipes a try for your next weeknight dinner!