Name: Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound (454 g) leftover cooked dark-meat turkey meat (thighs and drumsticks; see note); 1 orange, preferably sour, quartered; 1 medium yellow onion (about 8 ounces; 225 g), quartered; 2 bay leaves; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil, chicken fat, turkey fat, or duck fat; Kosher salt

Craving a scrumptious reinvention of Thanksgiving leftovers? This Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe will transform your dark-meat turkey into a crispy, citrusy delight, perfect for giving your holiday remnants a flavorful twist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal prep and achieves maximum flavor with just a handful of ingredients.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing turkey leftovers, this dish is as economical as it is delicious.
Flavorful Twist: The citrus and onion blend infuses the turkey with deep, zesty flavors.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for tacos, salads, or over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few key ingredients, this Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe comes together beautifully. Each component adds a delightful layer of taste and aroma, ensuring a dish that’s both succulent and satisfying.

1 pound leftover cooked turkey: Dark-meat like thighs and drumsticks are perfect for rich flavor and tenderness.
1 sour orange: Provides a tangy zest that enlivens the turkey’s taste.
1 medium yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the citrus notes.
2 bay leaves: Infuse a subtle herbal fragrance that permeates the dish.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Or use turkey/chicken fat for extra flavor while crisping.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors, bringing everything together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Adapt this Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs with a few easy swaps and additions. There’s plenty of room to play and make this dish your own!

Add a Kick: Sprinkle in some ground cayenne or fresh jalapeños for a spicy edge.
Herb Infusion: Introduce fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Citrus Swap: If sour oranges are unavailable, try using a mix of lime and orange juices for a balanced flavor.

How to Make Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe

Step 1: Simmer to Tender Perfection

Combine your turkey meat, orange, onion, and bay leaf in a snug pot. Pour enough water to cover halfway, then bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently until the turkey practically falls off the bone. This will take about 45 minutes to an hour. Once tender, discard the orange, onion, and bay leaves. Drain and shred the turkey, setting bones aside.

Step 2: Crispy Delight

In a cast-iron skillet, heat your choice of oil or fat over medium-high heat. Add the shredded turkey, spreading it into an even layer. Allow it to brown and crisp on the bottom, stirring occasionally to mix in crisp bits with softer pieces, until it’s just how you like it. Season generously with salt to finish.

Pro Tips for Making Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe

Optimal Shredding: Once the turkey cools slightly, use two forks to shred it for best texture.
Flavor Infusion: Let the turkey marinate longer in the orange and onion broth for a deeper flavor.
Cookware Choice: Cast iron skillets retain heat well and provide an excellent crispy finish.
Crisp to Taste: Adjust the crispiness to your preference by altering cook time in the skillet.

How to Serve Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe

Garnishes

Add sliced avocados, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a refreshing touch that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the turkey carnitas.

Side Dishes

This robust dish pairs beautifully with classic sides like refried beans and Spanish rice. A simple green salad can also balance the meal, adding a fresh contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving these carnitas buffet-style for tacos, allowing guests to build their own with a variety of toppings. Or, use large lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover turkey carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for a quick reheatable meal during busy weekdays.

Freezing

Freeze the turkey carnitas in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain quality.

Reheating

For best results, reheat carnitas in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crispy, adding a touch more oil if needed to enhance crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use white-meat turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely. While dark meat lends more flavor and moisture, white meat can also work, though you might want to monitor it closely to prevent drying out.
What’s the best way to keep the turkey moist?

Cooking in the flavorful broth is key. Once shredded, make sure not to over-crisp in the skillet to retain some tenderness.
Can I make this recipe without a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, a non-stick pan will also do the job, though a cast iron is preferred for achieving the best crispiness.
How can I adjust the recipe if I’m missing some ingredients?

The recipe is pretty forgiving. You can swap the sour orange with a regular one with a dash of lime, or omit the bay leaves if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Leftover Turkey “Carnitas” Recipe is a delightful way to breathe new life into your Thanksgiving turkey. The crispiness, the tang, and the ease will make it a post-holiday staple. Give it a try and savor the transformation!