How to Reheat a Smoked Turkey to Perfection

Ah, the glorious smoked turkey – a centerpiece of many a holiday feast. Whether youve indulged in a whole smoked bird or have leftovers from a previous celebration, the challenge of reheating it to perfection can be daunting. Fear not, my fellow BBQ enthusiasts, for Im here to share the secrets of reviving that smoky, juicy goodness.

Before we dive into the reheating methods, lets address the first crucial step: thawing. If your smoked turkey is frozen, youll want to give it ample time to thaw in the refrigerator. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the size of the bird. Once its fully thawed, youll be ready to embark on your reheating journey.

Next, gather your trusty kitchen tools. Youll need a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey reaches the perfect internal temperature, and any additional equipment required for your chosen reheating method. From oven-safe dishes to a reliable pellet grill, having the right tools on hand will make the process a breeze.

Smoked turkey is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed year-round, not just on the holidays. The smoky, savory flavor combined with tender, juicy meat makes smoked turkey one of the best meals out there. However, properly reheating leftover smoked turkey can be tricky. You want to make sure you reheat it thoroughly without drying it out.

In this comprehensive guide I’ll walk you through the best methods for reheating smoked turkey, whether it’s the whole bird pieces, or sliced meat. With a few simple tips on temperature, moisture, and technique, you’ll be able to revive your leftover turkey to be just as mouthwatering as when it first came off the smoker.

Why Getting the Reheat Right Matters

You may be tempted to just pop your smoked turkey leftovers in the microwave and call it a day. However, microwaving can lead to disastrous results leaving you with dry rubbery meat and rendering the smoked turkey inedible.

The reheating method needs to be done gently, at a low temperature over time. This allows the turkey to come up to a safe internal temperature without overcooking the exterior. Rushing the process means you’ll end up with very uneven results.

Don’t worry though, reheating smoked turkey is easy once you know a few tricks to retain moisture and flavor. Whether you choose the oven, slow cooker, or stovetop, follow the tips below for success.

Tips for Reheating Smoked Turkey

Here are some key pointers to keep in mind no matter which reheating method you choose:

Bring it to room temperature first – If you’re working with previously refrigerated or frozen turkey, let it sit out for 30-60 minutes before reheating. This helps it cook more evenly later on.
Use foil or a lid – Covering the turkey helps trap in steam and moisture as it reheats. Use foil loosely tented over a baking sheet or pan, or a lid for pots and slow cookers.
Add moisture – A bit of broth, water, or sauce in the bottom of the reheating vessel will help keep the turkey from drying out. Basting occasionally also works.
Use a thermometer – Turkey should reach 165°F at its thickest part. Track temperature to avoid over or undercooking.
Let it rest – As with initially cooking turkey, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing into it after reheating. This allows juices to redistribute evenly.

Oven Method

The oven provides a very consistent reheating process for smoked turkey. Use these steps for the best results:

Preheat oven to 325°F. This relatively low temperature will heat the turkey gently.
Place turkey pieces or slices on a rimmed baking sheet. Add 1-2 cups of broth or water to the bottom of the pan.
Loosely cover turkey with aluminum foil, leaving some openings for steam to escape.
Bake for approximately 10-15 minutes per pound, until the thickest part of turkey reaches 165°F.
Remove foil and bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes to crisp up the skin.
Let rest 10-15 minutes before serving.

Slow Cooker

For more hands-off reheating, a slow cooker is perfect:

Grease the slow cooker crock to prevent sticking.
Add turkey pieces along with 1-2 cups of broth, gravy, or sauce to the slow cooker.
Cook on LOW, covered, for 2-3 hours until turkey is heated through (165°F).
Use a meat thermometer to check temperature periodically. Add more liquid if needed.
Once done, tilt lid to evaporate excess moisture and slightly crisp skin.

Stovetop

You can also use the stovetop to reheat smoked turkey gently:

Choose a skillet or pot with a tight-fitting lid. Add turkey pieces in a single layer.
Add a few tablespoons of butter, broth, or sauce. Cover and cook over medium-low heat.
Allow turkey to come up to temperature slowly, about 8-12 minutes per side.
Remove lid toward the end to evaporate excess moisture and crisp the skin.

Microwave (Last Resort)

While the microwave tends to dry out turkey, it can work in a pinch:

Place turkey slices or pieces in a microwave-safe dish. Add a couple tablespoons of broth.
Cover dish with a paper towel or vented plastic wrap. Microwave 2-3 minutes at 50% power.
Continue reheating in 1 minute intervals, checking between, until heated through.
Allow to rest 2-3 minutes before serving.

Tips for Reheating Smoked Turkey Parts

Smoked turkey legs, wings, breast meat, and other parts all benefit from the same gentle reheating. You may have to adjust cooking times slightly depending on size and shape. Turkey breasts and boneless rolls take less time than a whole leg or wing.

No matter what you’re reheating, use a meat thermometer to confirm temperatures. Go for 165°F, but remove at 160°F since the temperature will continue rising as it rests.

Roasting pans, rimmed baking sheets, and wire racks help promote air circulation for even cooking. Avoid tightly stacking turkey pieces together or covering them too tightly with foil.

Can You Reheat a Whole Smoked Turkey?

Yes, you can certainly reheat an entire smoked turkey using the oven method above. The same tips apply – allow it to come to room temperature first, use foil, add moisture, and reheat slowly at 325°F until the breast and thickest part of the thigh reach 165°F internally.

Figure around 10-15 minutes per pound, so a 12 pound turkey may take 2-2.5 hours to reheat fully and evenly. Large birds may take even longer. Using a thermometer is critical to ensure doneness without drying it out.

Let the whole reheated turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving into it. Cover it with foil as it rests so the heat remains trapped inside.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Smoked Turkey

Properly storing leftover smoked turkey is key to preserving flavor and texture. Here are some storage guidelines:

Let turkey cool completely, then refrigerate in shallow covered containers within 2 hours.
Use leftover turkey within 3-4 days for peak quality and safety.
Frozen smoked turkey keeps well for 2-3 months. Store pieces or slices in freezer bags.
Bring frozen turkey to the fridge to thaw 1-2 days before reheating. Cook within another 1-2 days.
Avoid repeated freezing as this causes texture degradation. Only freeze once.

Following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy leftover smoked turkey for days after it first comes off the grill or smoker.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does reheated smoked turkey last?

Leftover turkey should be eaten within 3-4 days after initial reheating. Store in the fridge and reheat any uneaten portions again before serving. Discard turkey after 4 days post-reheat.

Can you reheat smoked turkey in the instant pot or air fryer?

Yes, both the instant pot and air fryer can reheat smoked turkey effectively. Use the slow cooker function on the instant pot with sufficient added moisture. For an air fryer, use 400°F in brief 5-10 minute intervals to prevent drying.

What’s the best way to reheat smoked turkey legs or wings?

The oven method works beautifully for reheating turkey legs, wings, and other parts. Cover the baking sheet with foil and use plenty of added moisture. Cook at 325°F until 165°F, then broil briefly to crisp the skin.

Should you reheat smoked turkey breast side up or down?

It’s best to reheat turkey breast-side down if cooking it whole. This allows the delicate breast meat to steam and absorb moisture from the bottom as the denser thigh meat reheats. Flip over later to crisp the skin.

How can I crisp up the skin on reheated smoked turkey?

After bringing the turkey up to temperature covered, remove the foil/lid and increase the oven heat to 400-450°F or use the broiler for 5-10 minutes watched carefully. You can also sauté turkey skin-side down in butter or oil briefly.

Enjoy Perfectly Reheated Smoked Turkey

As you can see, reheating smoked turkey doesn’t have to be intimidating or result in dried-out disappointment. With some simple precautions, moisture-adding techniques, and proper temperature control, you can revive leftovers to be just as delicious as freshly cooked.

The next time you’re craving a smoked turkey sandwich or casserole, don’t hesitate to use up the leftovers. Now that you know how to reheat smoked turkey correctly, you can continue enjoying this tasty meat for several meals to come.

how do i heat up a smoked turkey

Oven Method: Keeping it Moist

The oven is a classic go-to for reheating a whole smoked turkey. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature, around 325°F (165°C). Gently wrap the turkey in heavy-duty aluminum foil, making sure to seal the edges tightly to lock in moisture. You can also add a bit of broth or stock to the bottom of the pan to create a steamy environment. Brush the turkey with our Mop Brush about every 30 minutes and recover the foil when finished.

Depending on the size of your turkey, the reheating time can vary from 1 to 2 hours. Use your meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) before removing it from the oven. This will not only ensure food safety but also preserve the juicy, tender texture youve worked so hard to achieve.

Microwave Method: A Quicker Approach

For those in a hurry, the microwave can be a convenient option. However, its important to approach this method with caution, as microwaves can sometimes dry out the meat. To mitigate this, slice the turkey into smaller, more manageable pieces and place them in a microwave-safe dish. Add a bit of broth or water to the bottom of the dish to create a steamy environment.

Set your microwave to a medium power setting and reheat the turkey in short bursts, checking the temperature frequently. The key is to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery, unappetizing texture. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), your turkey is ready to be enjoyed.