Cherry Chipotle Turkey Melt Pockets (Printable)

Smoky chipotle turkey, sweet cherry preserves, and cheese wrapped in golden bread pockets—quick and vibrant.

# Components:

→ For the Turkey Filling

01 - 1 cup cooked turkey breast, shredded or chopped
02 - 2 tablespoons cherry preserves
03 - 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
04 - 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
05 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

→ For the Melt Pockets

08 - 4 large flour tortillas or flatbreads
09 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Optional Add-Ins

11 - 1/4 cup sliced red onion
12 - 1/4 cup baby spinach or arugula

# Directions:

01 - Combine shredded turkey, cherry preserves, chopped chipotle peppers, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
02 - Lay out the tortillas or flatbreads. Evenly distribute the prepared turkey mixture onto one half of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. If using, add sliced red onion and greens over the cheese.
03 - Fold each tortilla in half, enclosing the filling, to create a pocket shape.
04 - Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Brush the exterior of each folded pocket with softened butter.
05 - Carefully place the buttered pockets into the heated skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side. Gently press down with a spatula during cooking to ensure even browning and thorough melting of the cheese until both sides are golden brown.
06 - Remove the cooked pockets from the skillet. Allow them to cool for 1 to 2 minutes before slicing and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have after holiday meals
  • Sweet and spicy flavor combination that's incredibly addictive
  • Customizable with your favorite add ins
  • Perfect for lunch boxes or quick dinners
02 -
  • These pockets are incredibly versatile and work with any leftover poultry
  • The filling can be made up to 2 days ahead for even quicker assembly
  • Perfect for using up Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey leftovers
  • Each pocket provides a complete meal with protein carbs and flavor
03 -
  • Always chop the chipotle peppers very finely to distribute the heat evenly throughout the filling. If you have sensitive diners, start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
  • For the crispiest exterior, make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the pockets, and resist the urge to flip them too early. The golden crust forms when the butter has time to work its magic.
  • When using leftover turkey that might be a bit dry, add an extra teaspoon of mayonnaise to the filling mixture to restore moisture and richness without changing the flavor profile.

Return