Sheet Pan Turkey Salad: The Easiest Dinner (Ever!)

January 2, 2026

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Sheet pan turkey salad is the answer to those nights when you crave something light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to throw together after a long day. This vibrant, colorful salad combines the simplicity of sheet pan cooking with the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables and the heartiness of perfectly cooked turkey. It is a dish that embraces both convenience and deliciousness. It’s my take on a classic, and I’m so excited to share this sheet pan turkey salad with you!

Growing up, my grandmother would often create impromptu salads using whatever was on hand, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This recipe is inspired by her resourcefulness and love for fresh flavors. It all started with a desire to use up some leftover Thanksgiving turkey, and it quickly became a household favorite. Now you can enjoy what I do for a simple healthy weeknight dinner.

Why You Will Love This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

This sheet pan turkey salad recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, but it's also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a guilt free indulgence which is also an incredibly fast weeknight dinner. Imagine tender, slightly charred turkey, combined with crisp vegetables, all tossed in a tangy, vibrant dressing. The sheet pan method allows the vegetables to caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a delightful depth to the salad. Feel free to use what you have on hand with the vegetables.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. It can be customized to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd pleasing potluck dish, this sheet pan turkey salad ticks all the boxes. It’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients, prepared with minimal effort. It’s the perfect dish when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Serve as is or top a bed of greens.

Ingredients Needed for This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into 1 inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 red onion, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups mixed greens, for serving (optional)

How to Make This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, combine the cubed turkey, bell peppers, red onion, and broccoli florets.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the turkey and vegetables, tossing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and the vegetables are tender crisp. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Gently toss in the halved cherry tomatoes.
To serve, place the mixed greens on a platter or individual plates. Top with the sheet pan turkey salad. Enjoy immediately. Consider serving this with some variations such as a Sheet Pan Turkey Pasta or Sheet Pan Turkey Tacos in a fun dinner setting.

How to Serve This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

This sheet pan turkey salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways.

As a main course: Serve the salad over a bed of fresh mixed greens for a light and satisfying meal.
As a side dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty soup.
In wraps or sandwiches: Spoon the salad into whole wheat wraps or sandwiches for a quick and easy lunch.
With grains: Combine the salad with cooked quinoa, farro, or rice for a more substantial meal.

How to Store This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftover sheet pan turkey salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: It is NOT recommended to freeze this salad, as the vegetables may become mushy when thawed.
Reheating: While it’s best served cold or at room temperature, you can gently reheat the turkey and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat if preferred.

Tips to Make This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Ensure the turkey and vegetables are spread in a single layer on the sheet pan to allow for even cooking and browning.
Customize the vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms.
Adjust the dressing: Taste the dressing and adjust the lemon juice, honey, or Dijon mustard to your liking.
Consider using leftover turkey for easy weeknight dinner ideas such as the sheet pan style in this recipe or Sheet Pan Beef Casserole

Helpful Notes for This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

Turkey: You can use either turkey breast or turkey thighs for this recipe. Turkey thighs will be more flavorful, but turkey breast will be leaner.
Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Honey: You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for the honey, if desired.
Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives over the salad before serving.

Variation of This sheet pan turkey salad Recipe

Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat.
Mediterranean: Incorporate Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of dried dill.
Asian Inspired: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger in the dressing and add some snow peas and water chestnuts to the vegetables.
Seasonal: In the fall, add roasted butternut squash or Brussels sprouts to the sheet pan.
Lemon Herb: The focus on a lemon herb dressing brightens the dish and makes it sing.
Honey Mustard: A little bit of honey mustard can sweeten the overall flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make a sheet pan turkey salad?

Sheet pan turkey salad involves roasting turkey and vegetables on a sheet pan, then combining them with greens and dressing. It’s a quick and easy way to prepare a flavorful and healthy salad.

What vegetables go well with sheet pan turkey salad?

Popular vegetable choices include bell peppers, onions, broccoli, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. You can customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

What is the best way to season turkey for sheet pan cooking?

A simple blend of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works well. You can also add Italian seasoning or your favorite herbs for added flavor.

Can I use leftover turkey for sheet pan turkey salad?

Yes, using leftover turkey is a great way to use up extra meat. Simply add the leftover turkey to the sheet pan during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.