For a quick and flavorful turkey dinner, this turkey cutlet recipe is perfect for one! Enjoy a tender, juicy cutlet topped with a rich gravy, all made in one pan for minimal cleanup. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a satisfying meal that’s both easy and delicious.
If you’re a fan of turkey and want to try something different, check out these other delicious single serving turkey recipes: Roast Turkey Breast, a small Herb-Crusted Turkey Roast or a tender and juicy Turkey Tenderloin.
Planning a “Thanksgiving for One,“? These turkey cutlets make a wonderful addition to your menu. And if you have any leftover turkey, try using it in tasty Thanksgiving Sliders.
Turkey breast chops make for a delicious, lean dinner option. However, with turkey’s tendency to dry out easily, it’s important to know how to cook turkey chops properly to keep them moist and flavorful. In this article, we’ll explain the best methods for cooking tender, juicy turkey breast chops every time.
Choosing Your Turkey Breast Chops
When selecting turkey chops at the store, look for chops that are about 1⁄2 to 3⁄4 inch thick. Thinner chops will cook more quickly but can dry out faster, while thicker chops will take longer to cook through but have more time to baste in juices and seasoning.
I recommend bone-in chops since the bone helps keep the meat moist but boneless chops work too. Opt for chops with white or pale pink meat rather than dark turkey meat which tends to be tougher.
Helpful Tips for Cooking Turkey Breast Chops
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when cooking turkey breast chops
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Don’t overcook the chops Cook just until the minimum safe internal temperature of 165°F is reached Overcooking is the biggest culprit when it comes to dry turkey.
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Use a meat thermometer. This takes the guesswork out of doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone.
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Brine the chops. Soaking the chops in a saltwater brine solution before cooking seasons the meat and helps it retain moisture.
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Marinate the chops. Marinating infuses flavor and tenderizes the meat. Go for acidic options like lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt.
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Baste while cooking. Regularly spooning or brushing pan juices, browned bits, and seasoning over the chops keeps them moisturized.
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Let chops rest before serving. Resting allows juices to redistribute so they don’t run out when you cut into the cooked chop.
Oven-Baked Turkey Chops
One of the easiest cooking methods for turkey chops is baking them in the oven. Here’s a simple oven-baked turkey chop recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in turkey breast chops (1⁄2 to 3⁄4 inch thick), about 11⁄4 pounds total
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Place chops in a baking dish and brush marinade evenly over both sides.
- Bake chops for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let chops rest 5 minutes before serving.
The quick garlic-thyme marinade adds lots of flavor. Basting the chops while they bake keeps them tender and moist.
Pan-Seared Turkey Chops
For brown, crispy exterior and juicy interior, pan-searing turkey chops on the stovetop is a great option.
Ingredients:
- 4 (1⁄2 inch thick) boneless turkey breast chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Pat chops dry with paper towels. Mix spices in small bowl. Rub spice mix evenly onto both sides of chops.
- Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chops and cook 4-5 minutes per side until 165°F.
- Transfer chops to plate and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Browning the spices in the hot oil really develops their flavors. Reducing the heat if chops brown too quickly prevents burning while still cooking through.
Grilled Turkey Chops
For maximum flavor, you can’t beat grilling turkey chops over hot coals or gas grill.
Ingredients:
- 4 (3⁄4 inch thick) bone-in turkey chops
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In gallon size zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Add chops, coat with marinade and refrigerate 30 minutes – 2 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Oil grates.
- Grill chops about 6 minutes per side with lid closed until 165°F.
- Transfer chops to platter, tent with foil and let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.
The acidic lemon-garlic marinade tenderizes the turkey chops and provides tons of Mediterranean flavor. The chop’s juices get locked in by the hot grill.
Sautéed Turkey Chops
For a quick weeknight dinner, sautéing turkey chops on the stovetop is fast and easy.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound turkey breast chops, pounded 1⁄4 inch thick
- 1⁄2 teaspoon each salt and pepper
- 1⁄4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1⁄4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Season chops all over with salt, pepper and poultry seasoning.
- Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chops 2-3 minutes per side until browned and 165°F. Transfer to plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic to skillet and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and cook 2 minutes, scraping browned bits from pan. Spoon sauce over chops and serve.
Pounding the chops thin ensures quick, even cooking. The garlic-butter pan sauce keeps the sautéed chops incredibly moist.
Baked Turkey Chop Recipes
Baking allows lots of possibilities for seasoning and glazing turkey chops. Here are some tasty baked turkey chop recipe ideas:
Honey-Mustard Chops
- Brush chops with 2 tablespoons each honey and Dijon mustard before baking.
Chili-Lime Chops
- Coat chops with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon chili powder and zest of 1 lime before baking.
Pesto-Parmesan Chops
- Brush chops with 2 tablespoons pesto sauce and sprinkle with 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan before baking.
BBQ Chops
- Brush chops with your favorite bbq sauce during last 5 minutes of baking to glaze.
With some simple prep and the right techniques, you can enjoy deliciously juicy and flavorful turkey breast chops anytime. Brining, marinating and basting are key for keeping the lean turkey chops tender and moist. Try baking, pan-searing, sautéing or grilling using your favorite seasonings. In no time, you’ll be serving up tasty turkey breast chops to please any crowd.
How To Cook A Turkey Cutlet
These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make this turkey cutlet recipe. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Season both sides of the turkey cutlet with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a medium-sized skillet melt 1 tablespoon of the butter over medium heat.
- Add the cutlet to the pan and cook until no longer pink, 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and place on a plate. Cover to keep warm.
- In the same pan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally for 2 minutes.
- Add the flour to the pan and cook, stirring constantly for a minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and cook, stirring constantly for 2 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- Add the turkey cutlet back to the pan; reduce heat to low. Cover the cutlet with the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Resting the Turkey: Let the turkey cutlet rest briefly after cooking. This helps lock in the juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.
- Adjusting Sauce Thickness: To reach the perfect sauce consistency, adjust the amount of flour or let it simmer a bit longer if needed.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, these small batch sides pair perfectly with turkey cutlets, making it easy to create a well-rounded meal without leftovers.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes add a classic touch that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
- Roasted Carrots: Slightly sweet and savory, roasted carrots add color and a boost of nutrients.
- French Bread: A slice of crusty French bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of flavorful gravy.
- Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy, rice pilaf makes a versatile side to complement the tender turkey cutlets.
- Cranberry Sauce: Add a festive touch with a spoonful of homemade cranberry sauce.
- Sausage Dressing: For a holiday vibe, a small portion of savory sausage dressing brings cozy, herbed flavors.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A Southern-inspired small-batch sweet potato casserole adds a comforting, slightly sweet side.
- Pumpkin Pie: No holiday meal is complete without pumpkin pie. A single serving pie is just right for one.
- Pecan Pie: For a nutty treat, a mini pecan pie satisfies any sweet craving.
- Dutch Apple Pie: If you’re in the mood for something fruity, mini Dutch apple pie makes a perfect ending.
These sides are perfectly portioned for one or two, giving you all the variety and balance of a full meal, minus the leftovers.
Yes! If you can’t find turkey cutlets in your grocery, you can purchase a turkey breast or turkey tenderloin and thinly slice it.
Yes. This turkey chops recipe is absolutely delicious with chicken too. You can purchase chicken cutlets or use a boneless, skinless chicken breast that has been thinly sliced horizontally.
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the turkey cutlets and then store them in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, reheat the turkey cutlets and then top them with the sauce.
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled. Be sure your pan is large enough to not crowd the meat for best results.
What Are Turkey Cutlets?
Turkey cutlets, sometimes called turkey chops, are thin, boneless slices of turkey meat that cook quickly, making them perfect for fast meals. You can usually find them in the fresh turkey section of your grocery store.
Most packs come with 5 or 6 cutlets. If you’re keeping them in the fridge, store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for about 1-2 days.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap each cutlet individually in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, turkey cutlets can keep their best quality in the freezer for up to 9 months.
If you have any ingredients leftover from this turkey cutlet recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.
- Turkey Cutlet: Turkey breast cutlets, also known as turkey chops, are lean and cook quickly, and are commonly available at most grocery stores. If turkey cutlets aren’t available, you can substitute with chicken or pork cutlets.
- Butter: This recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of salted butter—one for cooking the cutlet and the other for the gravy. For a dairy-free option, you can swap butter with olive oil.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning add flavor. Italian seasoning typically includes basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use any combination of these herbs.
- Vegetables: Chopped onions and garlic add depth to the gravy.
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the gravy.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended, allowing you to control the salt level in the gravy. Add more salt as needed.
Want to put your own spin on this turkey recipe? Here are a few ideas:
- White Wine Sauce: For a touch of elegance, add a splash of white wine to the gravy. It adds a nice depth of flavor that makes the dish feel extra special.
- Chili-Infused Sauce: If you’re craving a bit of heat, sprinkle in some chili flakes. This simple addition gives the sauce a warm, spicy kick.
- Mushroom Gravy Turkey Cutlet: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions to create a creamy mushroom gravy. This adds an earthy, comforting flavor that pairs well with turkey.
Sauteed Turkey Cutlets With Olive Oil, Pepper and Salt : Farm Fresh Foods
FAQ
Is turkey chops the same as turkey cutlets?
- Similar preparation: Both are typically pounded flat and cooked like a steak or pork chop.
- May vary by region: Some butchers might use “chop” to describe a cut with a small bone, while “cutlet” generally means boneless.
- Best for quick cooking: Due to their thinness, they cook quickly and are good for fast meals.
How do you cook a turkey breast so it doesn’t dry out?
By roasting turkey upside down, the breast meat is protected from the oven’s searing heat by the rest of the bird.
Are turkey chops healthy?
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High in protein:Turkey is an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for building and maintaining muscle mass.
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Low in fat:When choosing lean cuts like turkey breast, the fat content is minimal, making it suitable for people watching their fat intake.
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Rich in nutrients:Turkey provides a range of vitamins and minerals like B vitamins (niacin, B6, B12), selenium, and choline.
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Heart-healthy:Replacing red meat with turkey can be beneficial for heart health due to its lower saturated fat content.
How should a turkey breast be cooked?
- Heat the oven to 325°F.
- Pat-dry the breast with paper towels. …
- Roast for 90 to 105 minutes, until the thickest part of the meat registers 160°F on an instant-read thermometer, and the skin is crispy and golden.
How long do you cook Turkey chops in the oven?
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the turkey chops reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the turkey chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender and juicy.
Can you cook Turkey chops on a stovetop?
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.
How do you cook pan seared Turkey chops?
Follow these simple steps for juicy, flavor-packed pan seared 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. Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
How do you know if Turkey chops are cooked?
The best way to know when turkey chops are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chop, taking care not to touch the bone. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), the chops are safe to eat. Additionally, the meat should be white throughout and no longer pink.
How long do cooked turkey chops last?
Leftover cooked turkey chops will keep 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat thoroughly before serving again. 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.
How long do you cook a Turkey in the oven?
Season the turkey chops with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings or marinades. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.