The Best Tennessee Pulled Turkey Sandwiches Recipe

Craving a Flavor Explosion? Get Ready for Tennessee Pulled Turkey Sandwiches!

Ever wondered how to turn simple turkey into a taste sensation that’ll have everyone begging for seconds? These Tennessee Pulled Turkey Sandwiches are your answer! They’re juicy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, guaranteeing an impressive meal without any fuss. Think tender, naturally smoked turkey bathed in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, piled high on a soft bun. Sounds pretty amazing, right? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love It

Unbelievable Flavor: The combination of smoky, savory turkey and sweet, tangy barbecue sauce is a match made in heaven. Each bite is packed with deliciousness.
Effortless Preparation: Forget complicated cooking processes. This recipe is straightforward and mostly hands-off, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Crowd-Pleasing Main Course: These sandwiches are naturally fantastic for gatherings, parties, or potlucks. They’re always a hit and easily scalable for any number of guests.
Perfect Texture: The shredded turkey is incredibly tender and juicy, contrasting beautifully with the slight crunch of coleslaw (if you choose to add it) and the soft bun.
Versatile Customization: You can easily adjust the level of spiciness and sweetness to suit your preference, and there are so many fun topping options to explore. The recipe is naturally a blank canvas for your creativity.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these sandwiches apart is the focus on creating a truly authentic Tennessee barbecue experience. We’re not just slapping some sauce on cooked turkey here. Instead, we’re using a slow-cooking method to really infuse the turkey with smoky flavor, resulting in meat that’s incredibly tender and falling apart naturally. Then, we’re using a homemade barbecue sauce with just the right balance of sweet, tangy, and a little bit of spice. It’s about using the right ingredients and cooking techniques to highlight the natural flavor of the turkey and create that perfect barbecue taste you’ll crave.

Ingredient List

1 (3-4 pound) turkey breast, bone-in or boneless
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – This ingredient is essential for that naturally smoky flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce, or homemade (see notes below)
8 sandwich buns, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast. Then, evenly coat the turkey with the spice mixture.
Place the turkey breast in a baking dish and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the dish.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the turkey is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before shredding.
Once slightly cooled, shred the turkey using two forks.
In a large skillet, combine the shredded turkey and the barbecue sauce. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and coats the turkey completely.
Serve the pulled turkey on your sandwich buns immediately.

Optional Toppings/Variations

While these Tennessee Pulled Turkey Sandwiches are delicious on their own, there are plenty of ways to take them to the next level. Consider adding some classic barbecue toppings like:

Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds a wonderful cool, crunchy contrast.
Pickles: Dill or bread and butter pickles offer a tangy kick.
Sliced Onions: Thinly sliced red or white onions contribute a sharp bite.
Jalapeños: For a spicy element, try adding sliced or pickled jalapeños.

Expert Tips

Use a Meat Thermometer: For best results, check the internal temperature of your turkey to ensure it’s cooked through. The ideal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
Don’t Skip the Rest Time: Allowing the turkey to rest before shredding ensures it retains its juices and is easier to handle.
Make it Ahead: You can cook the turkey ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator. Just shred it and heat it with the barbecue sauce when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Adjust the Sauce: Taste your barbecue sauce before adding it to the turkey and adjust the sweetness and spice as needed to suit your preference.
Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting the buns before adding the turkey will help prevent them from getting soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different cut of turkey? While a turkey breast is ideal for this recipe because it’s naturally lean and tender, you could also use turkey thighs or a whole turkey. Keep in mind, the cook time may need to be adjusted.
Can I make my own barbecue sauce? Absolutely! Making your own sauce gives you full control over the flavors. Combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices to naturally create your own unique sauce. There are plenty of recipes to use online.
How can I make this recipe spicier? To amp up the spice, you can use a spicier barbecue sauce, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the spice rub. You can also mix some finely chopped jalapeños into your barbecue sauce for a kick.
How long can I store leftover pulled turkey? Leftover pulled turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze leftover pulled turkey? Yes, you can freeze leftover pulled turkey for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual. Remember, freezing may alter the texture slightly.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce or spice rub for an extra kick.
Sweeten it Up: Add a touch of brown sugar or honey to your barbecue sauce for extra sweetness.
Go Smoky: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the chicken broth to really enhance the smokey flavor.
Asian-Inspired: Use an Asian-style barbecue sauce with flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame for an international twist.
Healthy Option: Use whole-wheat buns and a low-sugar barbecue sauce, and serve with a side salad for a lighter meal.

Serving Suggestions

These Tennessee Pulled Turkey Sandwiches are wonderful served with a variety of side dishes. They pair naturally with classic picnic fare like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans. For a lighter side, consider a fresh green salad or some grilled vegetables. You can also add some crispy sweet potato fries or some corn on the cob for a fantastic dinner spread. Don’t forget some extra barbecue sauce for dipping!

Ready to Make Some Magic?

There you have it – a simple yet incredibly delicious recipe for Tennessee Pulled Turkey Sandwiches that’s naturally guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends! These sandwiches are flavorful, easy to make, and infinitely customizable, making them perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking, and then share your creations with others. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on social media—we can’t wait to see (and maybe taste!) your naturally awesome culinary masterpieces.