10 Best Thanksgiving Episodes Of Network Procedurals, From NCIS To Chicago Fire

Looking to binge some thrilling stories that capture both the warmth and chaos of Thanksgiving? This list highlights ten unforgettable Thanksgiving-themed episodes from your favorite network procedurals, blending crime-solving, drama, and heartfelt moments. You'll find everything from nail-biting cases to touching family dilemmas—perfect for your holiday viewing.

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1. Blue Bloods - "Season 2, Episode 8"

Thanksgiving always seems to hover in the air on Blue Bloods with its signature Reagan family dinners. But this classic police drama delivered a true Thanksgiving episode in its second season, setting it apart as one of the series' most memorable chapters in its fourteen-year run. During this episode, the Reagans gather at their oversized table, enjoying a feast that looks just like a Thanksgiving spread.

The family not only enjoys an abundance of food, but they also seize the moment to count their blessings, often expressing gratitude and sharing "grace." This special episode amplifies those traditions, making viewers feel part of the warm, close-knit Reagan clan and giving the show a cozy, holiday vibe that's hard to forget.

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2. NCIS - "Turkey Trot" (Season 20, Episode 8)

Thanksgiving is never simple when you work for NCIS. In "Turkey Trot," the team faces the types of emergencies that only happen during the holidays, balancing their dedication to justice with the pull to spend time with family. Tackling a holiday crime brings additional tension, reminding viewers of the sacrifices law enforcement officers make to protect their communities, even when they'd rather be home celebrating.

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3. FBI: Most Wanted - "Karma" (Season 4, Episode 7)

This episode takes a more somber approach to Thanksgiving. "Karma" centers on a son desperate for vengeance as his father battles cancer and time is running out. One of the episode's most emotional moments comes when Remy, the team leader, suffers a breakup, as his girlfriend realizes his primary loyalty lies with his job.

"By the final scene, Remy is able to have a happy Thanksgiving despite the break-up, which makes up for the depressing events earlier in the episode."

While the episode is heavy, it ends on a hopeful note, showing how people can still find reasons to be thankful even in tough times.

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4. The Rookie: Feds – "Standoff" (Season 1, Episode 8)

Although both The Rookie and its spinoff feature episodes titled "Standoff," only The Rookie: Feds delivers a Thanksgiving-centric storyline. The gripping drama begins with the kidnapping of a district attorney (DA) and his young daughter on Thanksgiving Day, thrusting the team into a tense investigation with holiday stakes.

The daughter's rescue doesn't mark the end—soon, there's a new crisis in the DA's office, escalating into a dangerous hostage situation. Despite these tense events, the episode manages to wrap up with an honest, heartfelt Thanksgiving family moment, giving viewers a sense of closure and warmth.

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5. Chicago Fire – "Season 1, Episode 7"

Focusing on first responders rather than police officers, Chicago Fire often gives viewers a different perspective on holidays like Thanksgiving. In this standout episode, Firehouse 51 experiences a wild Thanksgiving day filled with emergencies, including a classic "turkey fire," which the crew scrambles to put out.

"This episode involves a chaotic Thanksgiving day at Firehouse 51, which is in some ways a typical day despite the holiday, though at least one case is Thanksgiving-themed, as the crew must put out a house fire caused by a burning turkey before the day is out."

Amid the whirlwind of calls and commotion, the holiday spirit manages to shine through, reminding everyone of the bond shared by the team.

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6. Hawaii Five-0 – "Hau'oli La Ho'omaika'i" (Season 4, Episode 9)

The Thanksgiving-themed episode of Hawaii Five-0—titled after the Hawaiian word for Thanksgiving—brings together suspense and emotion. The team investigates the murder of a Secret Service agent who was found in a vat of lye during a secret presidential meeting with a North Korean delegation.

"The main story revolves around the murder of Secret Service agent Kyle Russo, who is found dead in a vat of lye on Thanksgiving."

But the case isn't the only source of drama. Steve McGarrett struggles with the impending loss of his Aunt Deb, who is terminally ill and refusing further treatment. Through his pain, Steve tries to make her last Thanksgiving one to cherish, adding a poignant, heartfelt touch to the gripping crime story.

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7. 9-1-1 – "New Beginnings" (Season 2, Episode 11)

9-1-1 captures both the chaos and the quirks of the holiday through the eyes of Los Angeles first responders. While specifics are sparse in the original summary, episodes of this show typically blend wild emergencies with deeply personal stories, so expect a fast-paced Thanksgiving filled with dramatic rescues and moments of personal growth.

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8. Matlock – "Pilot" (Season 1, Episode 1)

While not directly themed around Thanksgiving, the Matlock pilot belongs on your holiday watchlist. The episode's classic storytelling and traditional network drama feel carry a nostalgia that fits the season, especially for those unwinding after a busy holiday dinner.

"Kathy Bates' series proves that traditional programming can still compete with other higher-budget shows."

If you enjoy seeing characters wrestle with difficult personalities and interpersonal struggles—not unlike a real family Thanksgiving dinner—this episode offers a relatable, comforting escape.

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9. Elsbeth – "Pilot" (Season 1, Episode 1)

Again, this isn't strictly a Thanksgiving episode, but its focus on the main character, Morgan, and her struggle to fit in at the LAPD echoes the awkwardness and frustrations that many people experience at family gatherings around the holiday.

"Morgan's difficulty getting along with those at the LAPD who don't want to listen to her and her difficulty letting go of imperfect details resemble the kinds of struggles many people have with their families over the Thanksgiving dinner table, as well as at other times."

The episode is a good choice for viewers looking to decompress from Thanksgiving stresses with a relatable and witty procedural.

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10. Law & Order: SVU – "Friending Emily" (Season 14, Episode 6)

This Law & Order: SVU episode brings both drama and relatable family tension to the Thanksgiving table. The episode juxtaposes the week's criminal case with Detective Rollins' struggle at home as she tries to manage her sister Kim's self-destructive behaviors.

"It's a good one to watch on Thanksgiving because of the juxtaposition between the case of the week and Rollins' attempt to deal with her sister Kim's self-destructive behavior, which is unfortunately all too relatable."

It's a compelling reminder that for many, the challenges at home can be just as pressing as those at work—especially during the holidays.

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Final Thoughts

These Thanksgiving episodes from network procedurals combine suspense, emotional depth, and familiar holiday chaos, making them perfect for anyone who loves a good story with their turkey. Whether you're into heartfelt family drama or nail-biting emergencies, these episodes deliver the right blend of excitement and warmth to celebrate the holiday season. 🍂🍗