Turkey is a lean, versatile protein that works great in everything from sandwiches to salads. While roasting a whole turkey can be tasty, it also takes a lot of time and effort When you need convenient turkey flavor in a hurry, pre-cooked turkey breast is the way to go

I often get asked where to find high-quality pre-cooked turkey breast to use in recipes and everyday meals. After researching many options, I’ve discovered several excellent places to purchase fully cooked turkey breast fillets, rolls, and slices. Whether buying turkey breast for weeknight dinners or easy holiday entertaining, here are the best places to find it.

Grocery Store Deli Counters

The deli section of your local supermarket is a convenient spot to grab delicious oven-roasted turkey breast. Major chains like Publix, Wegmans, and HEB offer quality turkey slices, often with a variety of flavors like smoked, Cajun, lemon pepper, and more. Deli turkey typically comes in more extended, uniform slices that work well for sandwiches. Prices are reasonable, and you can get just what you need for a few meals without leftovers.

Specialty Markets

Upscale grocers like Whole Foods, Fresh Market, and Metropolitan Market have outstanding pre-cooked turkey options with premium ingredients and innovative flavors. The turkey breasts found here are high-end with creative seasonings like chipotle garlic, chardonnay herb, and wild mushroom. The downside is the cost is higher than standard supermarkets. However, these are great for a special meal when you want extra-moist, all-natural turkey.

Butcher Shops and Farm Stores

For the absolute freshest turkey breast, head to your local butcher or family-owned meat market. These places often roast their turkeys daily right in the store. The bonus is you can get the exact size and cut you want, including boneless turkey fillets perfect for grilling. Butcher shop turkey breasts are fantastic quality, though pricing is higher like the specialty stores.

Online and Meal Delivery

If you want pre-cooked turkey breast shipped right to your door, order from grocery delivery services like Fresh Direct or meal kit companies like Green Chef. Meal kits include pre-portioned turkey breast medallions or strips that are ready for quick cooking. Mail order gives easy access to gourmet seasoned turkey without leaving home. Just note that shipping costs can add to the price.

Major Turkey Brands

Nationwide turkey brands like Butterball, Jennie-O, and Boar’s Head are reliable sources for finding pre-cooked turkey breast Butterball makes convenient microwaveable individual turkey breasts in savory flavors like brown sugar and bourbon glazed Jennie-O offers deluxe shaved turkey breast ideal for sandwiches. Boar’s Head is great for premium smoked and seasoned deli-style turkey slices. The pre-cooked options from these major brands are widely available at most stores.

Restaurant Chains

A few restaurant chains prepare in-house roasted turkey breast to use on sandwiches and entrees. Boston Market’s individual turkey breast meals with sides are tasty and homemade tasting. Cracker Barrel’s heat and serve turkey n’ dressing breast provides a quick holiday feel. You can even get high-quality oven-roasted turkey breast on sandwiches from places like Arby’s and McAlister’s Deli.

Tips for Buying and Using Pre-Cooked Turkey

When purchasing pre-cooked turkey breast, keep these tips in mind:

• Check the label – Look for no added hormones or antibiotics and minimal ingredients. Avoid preservatives.

• Get the right size – Just what you need so there’s no waste from leftovers going bad. Around 1/4 pound per person is a good rule of thumb.

• Consider the form – Slices for sandwiches, fillets or medallions for grilling, or rolls for roasting whole.

• Expired? Don’t buy it – Make sure there’s still ample time before the sell-by date.

• Know how to store it – Keep frozen until ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator 1-2 days before cooking.

• Give it flavor – Season or marinate cooked turkey to enhance the taste. Herbs, citrus, spices, and rubs all work well.

• Cook thoroughly – Heat pre-cooked turkey to 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to verify doneness.

• Refrigerate leftovers properly – Store within 2 hours of cooking, use within 3-4 days. Discard if you see any signs of spoilage.

Delicious Ways to Use Pre-Cooked Turkey

Here are some of my favorite quick and easy recipes using ready-to-eat turkey breast:

• Turkey sandwiches – Deli slices on whole grain with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mustard.

• Turkey wraps – Spread hummus and veggies in a tortilla with sliced turkey.

• Turkey Cobb salad – Chopped greens topped with turkey, avocado, egg, bacon, and blue cheese.

• Turkey skillet dish – Sauté turkey strips with veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.

• BBQ turkey pizza – Pre-cooked turkey, red onion, cilantro and BBQ sauce on a store-bought crust.

• Turkey pesto pasta – Toss cubed turkey breast with basil pesto and cooked spiral pasta.

• Turkey breakfast hash – Pan fry potatoes, turkey, spinach, peppers, and top with a fried egg.

• Turkey quesadillas – Fill tortillas with shredded turkey, cheese, and fire-roasted salsa.

• Turkey casserole – Make a flavorful bake with turkey, rice or pasta, cream sauce, and shredded cheese.

The possibilities are endless for easy, nutritious meals using pre-cooked turkey. It provides a fast protein solution for hectic weeknights or impressive weekday entertaining. Follow the tips above to find high-quality pre-cooked turkey breast at a store near you.