Leftover Turkey Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re staring down a pile of leftover Thanksgiving turkey and wondering what on earth to do with it, I’m right there with you. This Leftover Turkey Stir Fry Recipe is honestly one of my all-time favorite ways to turn those bits of bird into a fresh, vibrant meal that feels nothing like reheated leftovers. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfectly customizable — you’ll find that it works wonders for dinner any night of the week after a big holiday or roast.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

When I make this leftover turkey stir fry recipe, I aim for a mix of bright veggies and bold seasonings that complement turkey’s mild flavor without overpowering it. Plus, these ingredients are easy to keep on hand or find at the market.

• Neutral oil: I use peanut or canola oil because they withstand high heat well without flavoring the dish.
• Green onions: Slice whites and greens separately for layering flavor — whites go in early, greens as garnish.
• Thai-style chilis: Adds a spicy kick; adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance.
• Garlic: Fresh and minced gives that punch of aroma stirring throughout the dish.
• Fresh ginger (optional): I love this fresh zing — slice thinly to melt into the stir fry.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and color, thin slices cook quickly.
• Snow peas or sugar snap peas: Their crisp texture contrasts nicely with tender turkey.
• Matchstick carrots: Adds mild sweetness and color — easy to buy pre-cut.
• Baby bok choy: Crunchy white parts soften with cooking; bright greens go in last for freshness.
• Cooked turkey: Roughly chopped leftovers make for the star protein.
• Thai basil leaves: Stir some into the dish and save some for garnish for the authentic, slightly spicy herbal note.
• Cooked white rice: The perfect bed to soak up all the sauce and keep the meal balanced.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this leftover turkey stir fry recipe is how easy it is to switch up depending on what you have on hand or your cravings. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own.

• Vegetarian version: Swap turkey for firm tofu or tempeh — press and marinate your tofu for a similar texture and flavor boost.
• Add more veggies: Try adding mushrooms, baby corn, or broccoli florets for more variety and nutrients.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check your fish sauce for gluten content.
• Spice level: Adjust chilis and sriracha according to how hot you like it. I often keep mine mild for the kids, then add extra chili flakes at the table.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix the Sauce

I always start by chopping all my veggies into uniform, thin slices — it helps everything cook quickly and evenly. While chopping, whisk together your sauce ingredients: turkey broth, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar (or honey), and sriracha if you want some heat. This little bowl of magic will bring everything together at the end.

Step 2: Begin Stir-Frying Aromatics and Veggies

Heat your neutral oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Toss in the sliced chilis and white parts of green onions — cook these 1-2 minutes to release their flavors. Then quickly add the bell peppers and snow peas, stir frying for about 3-4 minutes. The goal is bright, crisp-tender veggies, so don’t overcook.

Step 3: Add Remaining Veggies and Turkey

Next, stir in the matchstick carrots and bok choy whites, cooking another 2-3 minutes. If you’re using ginger, garlic, or other aromatics, add them now with your turkey. Toss everything around just 1-2 minutes — you’re mostly reheating the turkey and infusing the pan with garlic and ginger goodness.

Step 4: Pour Sauce and Finish With Greens

Pour the sauce mixture over your stir fry, stirring quickly to coat everything evenly. Immediately add bok choy greens and half the Thai basil leaves, toss gently to combine. Take a taste now — you can easily adjust with a splash more soy sauce, lime juice, or sriracha if it needs a boost. Serve hot over rice, garnished with the green tops of the onions and remaining basil.

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Stir Fry Recipe

Garnishes

I always finish this stir fry with plenty of fresh Thai basil and the green parts of the scallions for a burst of herbal brightness. A wedge of lime on the side is non-negotiable in my book — squeezing a bit right before eating totally elevates the flavors.

Side Dishes

While the stir fry is great on its own, pairing it with steamed jasmine or basmati rice soaks up every bit of sauce. For a crunchy side, I love serving simple cucumber salad or pickled vegetables, which add a refreshing note to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

At a recent holiday lunch, I went all out and served this stir fry in cute mini lettuce cups garnished with extra Thai basil and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds — such a fun, finger-food twist! Also, wrapping it in warm tortillas for quick turkey stir fry wraps was surprisingly popular with kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge and try to eat it within 2 days. The veggies stay nicely crunchy, and the turkey retains good texture. If your stir fry looks a little dry the next day, a splash of water or broth when reheating helps refresh it.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, I recommend skipping the rice initially. Freeze the stir fry in meal-sized portions for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat leftover turkey stir fry recipe gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring frequently to prevent drying. Avoid microwaving if possible, since that can make the veggies mushy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this leftover turkey stir fry recipe breathes new life into holiday leftovers without any fuss. It’s quick, fresh, and packed with color and flavor that makes me forget I’m not eating something cooked from scratch right this second. I’m pretty sure once you try it, it’ll become your go-to for leftover turkey, just like it did for me. Give it a shot — I promise it’ll brighten up those post-holiday meals!

Print