HOLIDAY RECIPE

How to Thaw a Turkey (Whole or Parts)

Knowing How to Thaw a Turkey and when to begin the thawing process are crucial in the Thanksgiving preparation process. In this guide, I’ll share the safest (and easiest!) ways to thaw a whole turkey, turkey breast, turkey wings, or turkey legs as well as one way you should NEVER thaw a turkey.

Let’s get started!

The trick to thawing a turkey — be it a whole bird or a certain cut — is to begin the defrosting process well before you actually plan on cooking it. Turkeys are large birds, and as such they take a long time to thaw!

PREP FRIDGE

1. Re-organize the shelves in your fridge to make enough room for the turkey, if needed. (I suggest placing the turkey on the bottom shelf in case any juices drip down.)

CHECK TEMP

2. Check that the temperature of your fridge is set to 40ºF or below.

TRANSFER

3. Transfer the turkey from the freezer to the fridge, leaving it in its packaging. (You might want to place the turkey in a roasting pan or similar baking dish to catch any juices that might otherwise drip into the fridge.)

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How to Roast a Stuffed Turkey

Turkey Roasting Tips