Smothered Turkey Chops

Fork-tender turkey bathed in a rich, flavorful gravy is Southern comfort food at its best! Smothered Turkey Chops are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Their savory taste and creamy texture will impress your family and friends, making this dish a standout on your dinner table. Plus, it comes together in under an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Gravy: The rich gravy adds depth to the tender turkey, making every bite satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a customizable meal that fits any preference.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the warm and hearty flavors that remind you of home-cooked meals.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Smothered Turkey Chops.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Cast Iron Skillet
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Cast Iron Skillet: Perfect for achieving that golden-brown crust on the turkey while retaining heat for even cooking.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth gravy by effectively mixing flour into the melted butter.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For easy slicing and dicing of vegetables.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 3-4 turkey cutlets
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon turkey seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ¼ cup vegetable oil (divided)
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons salted butter
– ½ onion (sliced)
– 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
– 2 teaspoons minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (minced)
– 2 tablespoons seasoned flour (from above)
– 2-3 cups chicken stock
– salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Smothered Turkey Chops

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Chops

Pat the turkey chops dry with a paper towel. Then, lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

In a small mixing bowl, stir together the turkey seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. Generously season the turkey chops with this mixture and rub it in well. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Turkey Chops

Mix the remaining seasoning with the flour in a shallow bowl. Thoroughly coat each turkey chop with this flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Place them on a clean plate or board to rest for about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Sear the Turkey Chops

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once hot, place the turkey chops in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip them over and cook for another 4 minutes until fully cooked. Transfer them to a cooling rack and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Pour any remaining cooking oil into the same pan. Add sliced onion, mushrooms, minced garlic, and thyme. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the onions are slightly brown and vegetables are tender. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 6: Make the Gravy

Add butter to the cast iron skillet. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of seasoned flour while turning down the heat to low. Whisk until dissolved in melted butter.

Step 7: Add Chicken Stock

Gradually whisk in chicken stock until the gravy thickens slightly, continuing to whisk regularly. If it gets too thick, add another tablespoon of chicken stock. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Simmer Turkey Chops

Return the cooked turkey chops to the pan and spoon some gravy over them. Cover with a lid and let simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 9: Serve

Once ready, garnish your Smothered Turkey Chops with parsley before serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Smothered Turkey Chops

Smothered Turkey Chops are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a classic Southern meal or a modern twist, these turkey chops will surely impress. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the turkey chops directly over a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes. The rich gravy will soak into the potatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful dish.

With Rice Pilaf

• Pair the smothered turkey with a side of fluffy rice pilaf. The light seasoning of the rice complements the savory flavors of the gravy, making for a balanced meal.

On a Bed of Pasta

• For an Italian twist, serve the turkey chops on top of your favorite pasta. Spaghetti or fettuccine works well; just drizzle with extra gravy for added flavor.

Accompanied by Collard Greens

• A classic Southern side, collard greens offer a healthy green option that pairs beautifully with the richness of smothered turkey. Sauté them lightly with garlic for extra taste.

With Cornbread

• Enjoy your turkey chops alongside warm cornbread. The slight sweetness of the cornbread balances out the savory gravy, making each bite delightful.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. This adds color and enhances flavors, bringing freshness to each bite.

How to Perfect Smothered Turkey Chops

Creating perfect Smothered Turkey Chops is all about technique and flavor balance. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Tender Cuts: Use tender turkey cutlets for fork-tender results that melt in your mouth.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Properly seasoned meat will enhance the flavor profile of your dish significantly.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Keep your skillet at medium-high heat when frying. This ensures that the chops develop a nice golden crust without overcooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like thyme and garlic bring vibrant flavors to your gravy. Opt for fresh over dried when possible.
• Whisk Gravy Constantly: When adding chicken stock, whisk continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture in your gravy.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the smothered turkey chops to simmer in gravy helps them absorb flavor and stay juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Smothered Turkey Chops

To round out your meal, consider these fantastic side dishes that pair well with Smothered Turkey Chops. Each option brings unique flavors and textures to complement this comforting main course.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a perfect base for soaking up delicious gravy.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans add color and crunch while providing a healthy contrast to the richer elements of the meal.
3. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy side that everyone loves; its creaminess pairs wonderfully with savory turkey.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts offer a nutty flavor that balances well with the richness of smothered turkey.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which can brighten up the overall meal experience.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: For something sweet, this dish provides a delightful contrast to savory flavors while adding seasonal flair.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser; grilled or boiled, it complements any Southern-inspired meal wonderfully.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes bring texture and tanginess that pairs excellently with turkey chops.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Smothered Turkey Chops, there are several common errors that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your turkey chops properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to use the seasoning mix generously on all sides.
• Not resting the meat: Cutting into the turkey chops immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Allow them to rest before serving.
• Using low-quality stock: Utilizing poor-quality chicken stock can diminish the flavor of your gravy. Opt for a good-quality stock or homemade broth for better taste.
• Overcooking the chops: Cooking turkey chops too long can make them tough and dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer if needed.
• Neglecting to scrape the pan: After frying, failing to scrape up browned bits from the pan can leave out essential flavors in your gravy. Make sure to include those bits when making your sauce.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the turkey chops and gravy to cool before sealing.

Freezing Smothered Turkey Chops

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Smothered Turkey Chops

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sides pair well with Smothered Turkey Chops?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully. You can even serve it with cornbread for added Southern flair.

Can I customize the recipe for Smothered Turkey Chops?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I ensure my Smothered Turkey Chops are tender?

Make sure not to overcook them and let them rest after frying. This will keep them juicy and tender.

What is the best way to store leftover Smothered Turkey Chops?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

Smothered Turkey Chops are a delightful Southern comfort food that’s both rich and satisfying. This versatile dish pairs well with various sides, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs and veggies! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!