Turkey BBQ Sandwiches Recipe

Cooked turkey: Shredded turkey provides the base for the sandwich, offering a rich and savory flavor.

Bbq sauce: This adds a tangy and sweet element to the turkey, making it juicy and flavorful.

Sandwich buns: These hold the bbq turkey mixture and provide a soft, chewy texture.

Coleslaw: Optional, but it adds a refreshing crunch and creamy contrast to the savory bbq turkey.

To enhance the flavor of your turkey BBQ sandwiches, consider smoking the turkey before shredding it. This adds a rich, smoky depth that complements the bbq sauce. Additionally, when toasting the sandwich buns, spread a thin layer of butter or garlic butter on the cut sides before placing them on the grill or in the skillet. This will give the buns a golden, crispy texture and an extra layer of flavor.

• cooked turkey - Substitute with cooked chicken: Chicken has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a great alternative for turkey in BBQ sandwiches.

• cooked turkey - Substitute with pulled pork: Pulled pork offers a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with BBQ sauce, providing a different but delicious twist.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory Asian-inspired flavor that complements the meat well.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with honey mustard sauce: Honey mustard provides a tangy and sweet alternative that pairs nicely with shredded meat.

• sandwich buns - Substitute with ciabatta rolls: Ciabatta rolls offer a slightly chewy texture and can hold up well to the moist filling.

• sandwich buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns add a nutty flavor and extra fiber, making the sandwich a bit healthier.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich BBQ flavors.

• coleslaw - Substitute with sliced avocado: Avocado provides a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the BBQ sauce and meat.

• Allow the cooked turkey mixture to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the sandwich buns soggy.
• Transfer the cooled bbq turkey mixture to an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the bbq turkey mixture in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the flavors remain robust and the meat stays safe to eat.
• If you plan to keep the bbq turkey mixture longer, consider freezing. Place the mixture in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• When freezing, remove as much air as possible from the freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Flatten the bag for more efficient storage and quicker thawing.
• For reheating, thaw the bbq turkey mixture in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the bbq turkey mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of bbq sauce if the mixture appears dry.
• Store sandwich buns separately at room temperature in a bread box or airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming stale.
• If using coleslaw, store it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. Coleslaw typically lasts 3-5 days when stored properly.
• Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to ensure the sandwich buns remain crisp and the coleslaw stays fresh.

• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Wrap the sandwiches in aluminum foil to keep them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey is warmed through.

• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the sandwiches on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy bun, separate the turkey mixture from the buns. Heat the turkey in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Toast the buns in a toaster or on a skillet until golden brown. Reassemble the sandwiches and enjoy.

• For a stovetop method, place the turkey mixture in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover and heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Toast the buns separately and assemble the sandwiches.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Wrap the sandwiches in aluminum foil and place them in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey is warmed through. This method will keep the buns slightly crispy.

• Skillet: Used to heat and cook the shredded turkey with the BBQ sauce.

• Spatula: Essential for stirring and combining the turkey and BBQ sauce in the skillet.

• Toaster or Oven: Optional, but useful for toasting the sandwich buns to add a bit of crunch.

• Tongs: Handy for assembling the sandwiches and placing the BBQ turkey mixture onto the buns.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for any additional prep work, such as shredding the turkey if not already done.

• Knife: Useful for any slicing or chopping needed, such as cutting the buns if they are not pre-sliced.

• Measuring cups: Ensures you use the correct amount of turkey and BBQ sauce.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, but can be used to mix the coleslaw if you are preparing it fresh.

Use pre-cooked turkey: Save time by using leftover turkey or store-bought pre-cooked turkey.

Pre-made coleslaw: Opt for store-bought coleslaw to skip the chopping and mixing.

Quick toasting: Toast the sandwich buns in a toaster instead of the oven for faster results.

One-pan method: Combine the turkey and bbq sauce in one pan to minimize cleanup.

Batch cooking: Prepare a larger batch of the bbq turkey mixture and freeze portions for future quick meals.