15 Alternatives to Cooking a Turkey for Thanksgiving

Growing up I had a friend who always asked her mom to make her chicken on Thanksgiving because she didn't like turkey and it blew my mind.

At the time, I found this utterly wild. Now I understand the many reasons you might want an alternative to cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving.

Maybe you don't like turkey (as was the case with my friend) or you simply don't have the time or interest in the lengthy roast time that's required.

For whatever reason turkey may not happen to align with how you prefer to feast on Thanksgiving, we've got you covered in delicious fashion.

Here are 15 alternatives to cooking a turkey for Thanksgiving - including a couple of vegetarian options for folks of all dietary persuasions!

1. Maple Apple Pork Chops Recipe

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Filled with the flavors of fall and winter, our recipe for maple apple pork chops makes a one skillet entrée that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. If you're looking for a Thanksgiving dinner that requires a lot less time and prep, this one is the ticket while still packing loads of warm, comfort food flavors that are perfect for a holiday dinner. The boneless pork paired with apples, thinly sliced onions and flavorful maple sauce can't be beat.

2. Slow Cooker Salisbury Steaks Recipe

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Follow me on this one. If you want the ultimate low stress dinner, consider making our internet famous slow cooker salisbury steaks recipe! Easy, delicious, and so satisfying, this one is a crowd pleaser. You can serve it over egg noodles or opt for mashed potatoes for more of that traditional Thanksgiving vibe. Add a green bean casserole or other veggies on the side and your feast is served!

3. Honey Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe

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A delicious dinner, this honey mustard chicken with bacon recipe is impressive enough for dinner guests, making it a perfect alternative to cooking a turkey on Thanksgiving or for any other holiday dinner. Serve it with a starch like creamy mashed potatoes and steamed greens for a wonderful meal that will cook up in a fraction of the time involved in roasting a turkey for your family and friends.

4. Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe

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Savory with a tiny touch of sweetness, our creamy pumpkin pasta recipe features a thick, flavorful sauce that channels the flavors of Thanksgiving all packaged up in a simple, vegetarian entrée everyone will love. The base of the sauce is made with pumpkin puree and cream cheese with the addition of fresh sage for a twist on the traditional that won't leave anyone missing the turkey.

5. Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin Recipe

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To make Thanksgiving feel like a feast without a scrap of turkey in sight, give our Instant Pot pork tenderloin recipe a whirl! A sesame oil, ginger and honey sauce is paired with a sprinkle of cilantro and tender pork, cooking up in under a half hour. For Thanksgiving, pair this Instant Pot winner with crisp garlic green beans and mashed potatoes or a loaf of crusty sourdough bread.