Thanksgiving is a time for indulging in delicious feasts and creating cherished memories with loved ones. But when the festivities are over, many of us are left wondering what to do with the mountain of leftovers, especially turkey and chicken.
Instead of reheating the same plate over and over, why not transform those leftovers into exciting and creative meals? Here are 25 mouthwatering recipes that will breathe new life into your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes With Leftover Turkey
Thanksgiving turkey is often the star of the holiday feast, but it doesn’t have to end there. Leftover turkey is incredibly versatile, lending itself to dishes that are as comforting as they are creative. From soups and casseroles to tacos and gravies, turkey can be reinvented to suit any taste.
Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy, or hearty, these turkey recipes will transform your leftovers into delicious new meals.
1. Half Turkey Breast Recipe
Leftover turkey breast can easily be reimagined in this dish. Slice it thin, marinate, and bake for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
2. Turkey Gravy from Giblets and Neck
Turn leftover turkey giblets and neck into a rich and flavorful gravy. Perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even biscuits, this recipe ensures no part of the bird goes to waste.
3. Smothered Turkey Wings
Repurpose turkey wings into a comforting Southern-style dish. Simmered in a savory gravy with onions and spices, this recipe makes for a soul-soothing meal.
4. Jamaican Turkey Neck
Spice up your leftovers with this Caribbean-inspired recipe. Turkey necks are slow-cooked with bold seasonings, creating a rich and flavorful dish that pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables.
5. Turkey Chops (Baked)
Reinvent turkey leftovers by transforming them into breaded and baked turkey chops. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a lighter take on comfort food.
6. Turkey Cutlets
Sliced turkey gets a makeover in this dish. Breaded and pan-fried, turkey cutlets are crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them a hit with the whole family.
7. Baked Turkey Wings
Roast leftover turkey wings with fresh herbs and a touch of seasoning for a healthy and delicious post-Thanksgiving meal.
8. Turkey Drumettes
Whether baked or fried, leftover turkey drumettes make a perfect snack or appetizer. Add your favorite sauce for a flavorful twist.
9. Ground Turkey Fajitas
Swap ground turkey for shredded leftovers and toss it into fajitas. This quick and easy dish adds a Tex-Mex flair to your post-holiday meals.
10. 1-Pound Turkey Meatloaf
Combine leftover turkey with breadcrumbs and spices to create a hearty and flavorful meatloaf that’s great for dinner or meal prepping.
11. Turkey Chili
Transform leftover turkey into a spicy, hearty chili. Loaded with beans, tomatoes, and seasonings, this dish is perfect for cozy nights in.
12. Turkey Neck Oxtail Recipe
Blend turkey necks with oxtails for a rich, slow-cooked stew packed with robust flavors. Serve it over rice for a complete meal.
Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes With Leftover Chicken
Leftover chicken is a culinary lifesaver, offering endless possibilities for quick and satisfying meals. Its mild flavor pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it the perfect base for casseroles, soups, salads, and more.
Whether roasted, grilled, or shredded, chicken can be repurposed into dishes that are anything but ordinary. These recipes ensure your leftover chicken becomes the highlight of your post-holiday menu.
13. Chicken Quesadillas
Turn leftover chicken or turkey into cheesy, crispy quesadillas. Add some salsa or guacamole on the side for a quick snack or dinner.
14. Chicken Enchiladas
Repurpose shredded chicken or turkey into saucy enchiladas. Top them with cheese and bake for a crowd-pleasing dish.
15. Creamy Ranch Chicken
Leftover poultry meets creamy ranch dressing in this decadent recipe. Serve it over rice or noodles for an indulgent meal.
16. Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Transform leftover chicken or turkey into a warm and hearty pot pie soup. This creamy soup is loaded with vegetables and comfort in every bite.
17. Chicken Broccoli Bake
Mix leftover chicken or turkey with broccoli, cheese, and rice for a wholesome casserole the whole family will enjoy.
18. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Add shredded chicken or turkey to pasta salad for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
19. Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Combine leftover poultry with vegetables, creamy soup, and crispy tater tots for a fun, kid-friendly meal.
20. White Chicken Chili
Shredded turkey or chicken works perfectly in this comforting chili. Loaded with beans, spices, and creaminess, it’s ideal for a chilly day.
Wrapping Up
Thanksgiving leftovers don’t have to feel repetitive or boring. With these 25 creative recipes, you can turn your turkey and chicken into meals that rival the holiday feast itself.
From casseroles to soups, tacos to salads, the possibilities are endless. So, get creative, enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving a little longer, and make the most of every last bite.
