Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further! These juicy turkey chops are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. They're surprisingly easy to make, packed with protein, and offer a fantastic flavor profile that the whole family will love. Forget boring chicken breasts – turkey chops are the new star of your dinner table! This recipe offers a simple preparation, resulting in a healthy and satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless turkey chops (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the turkey chops dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear.
Season and Sear:
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In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Generously season both sides of the turkey chops with the spice mixture.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the turkey chops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
Simmer and Glaze:
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Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
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Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the lemon juice and Dijon mustard, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the turkey chops are cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. These turkey chops are fantastic on their own, or you can serve them with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Turkey Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking turkey chops in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your turkey chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Delicious Variations:
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms during the simmering stage for a rich and decadent sauce.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Top the cooked turkey chops with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the cooked turkey chops for a tangy and sweet finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5 grams
This simple recipe offers a healthy and delicious meal option perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of juicy turkey, flavorful seasonings, and a tangy sauce makes for an unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!