These super tasty Leftover Turkey Carnitas are my favorite way to use up leftover turkey meat! My turkey carnitas are the best use of your leftover turkey from holidays, hands down! Your family is sure to love these easy street style tacos any night of the week, and any time of the year!
In a large pot, or Dutch oven, add the turkey meat and chicken or turkey stock then enough water to finish covering the meat, if needed. Add the remaining ingredients, with the exception of the olive oil, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook at a simmer for about an hour, or until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
Remove from heat and transfer the cooked turkey meat to a plate to cool. Shred the meat once cooled, until it is fine enough for using for taco filling.
Heat the olive oil (or lard, or turkey fat) in a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium high heat until the oil or fat begins to shimmer. Add the shredded leftover turkey meat and spread evenly in the skillet.
Leave in place until well browned and beginning to crisp, usually about 5 minutes. Stir to distribute the crispy bits, and spread evenly repeating as needed to get your desired level of crispiness in the turkey carnitas meat.
Remove the turkey meat from heat and serve immediately, garnish with fresh pico de gallo.
Crock Pot Instructions
Follow the instructions in step 1 as given above: combine the turkey meat with broth and add water if need to completely cover the turkey meat. Add all remaining ingredients, except for the cooking oil or fat. Cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the turkey meat is tender and easy to shred. Continue as directed above in steps 2-5. Enjoy!