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Turkey Thaw Guide: Safe Defrosting Times & Methods

Perfectly Thawed Herb-Roasted Turkey

Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 12-14 lb whole Turkey Fully thawed, giblets and neck removed
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Softened
  • 2 tbsp Kosher salt Divided
  • 1 tbsp Black pepper Freshly cracked
  • 1 bunch Fresh thyme
  • 1 bunch Fresh rosemary
  • 1 bunch Fresh sage
  • 2 whole Lemon Halved
  • 1 head Garlic Cut in half horizontally
  • 2 cups Chicken broth Low sodium

Instructions
 

  • Ensure the turkey is completely thawed using the refrigerator or cold water method (allow 24 hours per 4-5 lbs in fridge).
  • Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 1 hour before roasting to come to room temperature.
  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Position the rack in the lower third of the oven.
  • Remove giblets and neck from the cavities. Pat the turkey extremely dry with paper towels inside and out.
  • Season the main cavity generously with salt and pepper. Stuff with half the herbs, lemon halves, and garlic.
  • Mix the softened butter with chopped remaining herbs, salt, and pepper. Loosen the skin over the breast and rub the butter mixture under the skin and all over the outside.
  • Tuck the wings under the body and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
  • Place the turkey on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
  • Roast until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C), approximately 3 to 3.5 hours for a 12-14 lb bird. Baste every 45 minutes if desired.
  • Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for at least 30-45 minutes before carving.