Pin This pickle juice brined turkey club wrap recipe transforms ordinary leftovers into a crave-worthy lunch option that balances tangy, savory, and fresh flavors. The pickle juice brine infuses the turkey with moisture and zesty flavor, elevating a simple wrap to something truly special.
I first made these wraps when looking for creative ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey. My family was so impressed with how juicy and flavorful the meat became after the pickle juice soak that these wraps now appear on our menu year-round, whether we're using deli turkey or holiday leftovers.
Ingredients
- Turkey breast slices: choose thick-cut quality turkey for the best texture and flavor absorption
- Dill pickle juice: the secret ingredient that tenderizes and flavors the meat while reducing waste
- Black pepper: adds a subtle heat that complements the tangy brine
- Flour tortillas: look for fresh, pliable wraps that won't tear when rolling
- Bacon: select thick-cut for optimal texture and flavor balance
- Fresh vegetables: crisp romaine, juicy tomatoes, and red onion provide essential crunch and freshness
- Mayonnaise: creates a creamy base that helps hold ingredients together
- Dijon mustard: adds a sophisticated tang that enhances the pickle flavor profile
- Cheese: optional but adds rich creaminess and helps bind ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate the Turkey:
- Place turkey slices in a bowl or zip-top bag and cover completely with pickle juice and black pepper. Ensure all pieces are submerged for even flavor distribution. Refrigerate for at least one hour, though four hours will deliver maximum flavor penetration. The acid in the pickle juice works to both tenderize and flavor the meat while the pepper adds a subtle warmth.
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Remove turkey from the marinade and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step prevents soggy wraps by removing excess moisture. Discard the used marinade.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat each tortilla briefly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 10-15 seconds per side or microwave for 10 seconds. Warming makes the tortillas more pliable and less likely to crack when rolling. Look for them to become slightly puffy but not crisp.
- Build the Base:
- Lay each warmed tortilla flat and spread one tablespoon of mayonnaise and half tablespoon of Dijon mustard evenly across the surface, leaving a one-inch border around the edges. This flavorful base helps ingredients adhere while adding creaminess and tang.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Start with a bed of shredded romaine lettuce, then add tomato slices, red onion rings, two strips of bacon, and a generous portion of the marinated turkey. If using cheese, place it directly on top of the warm turkey to encourage slight melting. Proper layering ensures every bite contains a balance of flavors and textures.
- Roll the Wraps:
- Fold in the sides of each tortilla about one inch, then tightly roll from the bottom up, tucking in the sides as you go to create a secure wrap. The tight rolling technique keeps ingredients from falling out when eating. Slice each wrap diagonally for an attractive presentation.
Pin The pickle juice brine is truly the game changer in this recipe. I discovered this technique when my grandmother mentioned how her mother used to soak tough cuts of meat in pickle brine during the Depression era. That generations-old kitchen wisdom transforms even the driest turkey into something succulent and flavorful. My children now request the "pickle turkey" specifically whenever we have leftover roast turkey.
Make-Ahead Tips
These wraps can be partially prepared in advance to streamline your meal prep routine. Marinate the turkey overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Cook bacon and slice vegetables the day before, storing them separately in airtight containers. When ready to serve, simply assemble the wraps for a fresh-tasting meal in minutes. If making complete wraps ahead, wrap tightly in parchment paper then aluminum foil to maintain freshness for up to 24 hours.
Ingredient Substitutions
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Serving Suggestions
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Recipe Q&A
- → How does pickle juice affect the turkey?
Pickle juice adds tang and helps keep the turkey tender and moist, giving a bright, flavorful profile.
- → Can I substitute chicken for turkey?
Yes, cooked chicken breast can replace turkey for a similar taste and texture in these wraps.
- → What’s the best way to keep wraps from getting soggy?
Pat the turkey dry before assembling and layer greens between moist ingredients and the wrap.
- → Are these wraps suitable for meal prep?
They're best enjoyed fresh but can be wrapped tightly and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- → What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt makes a lighter, tangy spread that's lower in fat and still creamy enough for layering.