Southern Fried Turkey Bites | Crispy Holiday Appetizer
A Little Holiday Story
Every year after Thanksgiving, there’s that one dish that saves the day when everyone’s tired of reheating leftovers. For me, it’s these Southern Fried Turkey Bites. They started as a happy accident one chilly December afternoon when I found myself staring at a pile of leftover turkey and a packet of King’s Chicken Creole Fry Batter. Instead of another turkey sandwich, I decided to fry up something bold, golden, and full of Southern spirit. The result? Crispy little bites that disappeared faster than any holiday side dish on the table.
What Inspired This Dish
Down South, we know two things well: comfort and crunch. And when you’ve got King’s Chicken Creole Fry Batter in the pantry, you’re already halfway to something delicious. That mix of authentic New Orleans herbs and spices turns plain turkey into a flavor-packed snack that crackles with every bite. It’s the kind of food that gathers folks around the kitchen again, long after the feast is done. No extra seasoning, no stress! just a simple way to bring that festive flavor back to life.
What You’ll Need
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About 2 cups of cooked turkey, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 cup of buttermilk (for soaking)
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1 pack King’s Chicken Creole Fry Batter
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Vegetable oil for frying (or an air fryer if you prefer)
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Optional dips: Cajun mayo, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup
How to Make Them
Start by soaking your turkey pieces in buttermilk for about fifteen minutes. This keeps the meat juicy and helps the batter stick better. In a shallow bowl pour out the King’s Chicken Creole Fry Batter. One by one roll each piece of turkey in the mix until it’s coated evenly and looks ready for that perfect golden fry.
Heat oil in a pan over medium flame until it shimmers. Drop in a few turkey bites at a time and let them sizzle until they turn crisp and golden brown. It takes just a few minutes per side. If you are using an air fryer, give them a light oil spray and cook at 375 degrees until they are crunchy and cooked through. Place the fried bites on a paper towel for a moment to rest before serving.
The Secret to the Perfect Crunch
What makes these bites stand out is that King’s Chicken Creole Fry Batter already carries a blend of real New Orleans flavor. Every bite has a touch of spice, a little garlic, and a whisper of herbs that come together beautifully once fried. You don’t need to add anything extra. The mix locks in moisture and delivers that signature Southern crunch every time. Whether you are using leftover turkey or fresh chicken, it never fails to impress.
How to Serve Them
Pile them on a platter beside a bowl of Cajun mayo or honey mustard. They taste great with mashed potatoes or warm biscuits on the side. For a fun party idea, slide them onto toothpicks and drizzle a bit of spicy honey over the top. These bites are perfect for holiday game nights or when unexpected guests show up and you want to serve something that feels homey and festive.
A Cozy Ending
Every family has that one dish that becomes the hero of the holidays. For us, it’s these Southern Fried Turkey Bites. They bring everyone back to the table with the same joy and laughter that filled the house on Thanksgiving day. Each crunchy bite tastes like comfort and celebration mixed together. So the next time you find leftover turkey in your fridge, remember this little recipe and give it new life. From our kitchen to yours, keep it crispy and full of love all season long.