Main menu

Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

A show-stopping, juicy turkey is the heart of any Thanksgiving feast. This recipe combines a fragrant herb rub, fresh vegetables, and a hint of champagne to create a succulent turkey with golden-brown skin and rich, savory flavors. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or enjoying an intimate dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Herb Rub:

  • 2 tablespoons dried parsley
  • 2 tablespoons ground dried rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons rubbed dried sage
  • 2 tablespoons dried thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon lemon-pepper seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Turkey and Stuffing:

  • 1 (15-pound) whole turkey, neck and giblets removed
  • 1 medium orange, cut into 8 wedges
  • 1 medium onion, chopped into large pieces
  • 1 medium carrot, sliced into ½-inch pieces
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced into ½-inch pieces

Liquids:

  • 1 (750-milliliter) bottle champagne
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can chicken broth

Instructions

  • Prepare for Roasting:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil, leaving enough excess to wrap around the turkey.
  • Make the Herb Rub:
    • In a small bowl, mix parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, lemon-pepper seasoning, and salt.
  • Season and Stuff:
    • Rub the herb mixture generously inside the turkey cavity. Fill the cavity with orange wedges, onion pieces, carrot slices, and celery. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen string, and tuck the wings under the bird.
  • Assemble the Turkey:
    • Place the turkey on the foil in the roasting pan. Pour champagne and chicken broth over the turkey, ensuring some liquid gets into the cavity.
  • Seal and Roast:
    • Bring the foil up over the turkey, sealing it securely but ensuring it doesn’t touch the skin. Roast in the preheated oven for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the juices run clear.
  • Crisp the Skin:
    • Remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 30–60 minutes until the skin turns golden brown. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh (near the bone). It should read 180°F (80°C).
  • Rest the Turkey:
    • Take the turkey out of the oven, cover it with two sheets of foil, and let it rest in a warm area for 10–15 minutes before carving.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    • Slice and serve your beautifully roasted turkey with your favorite sides.

Tips

  • For an alternative flavor, substitute champagne with white wine.
  • Resting the turkey ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
  • Save the drippings for a flavorful gravy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate for 10 Servings)

  • Calories: 556
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 201mg
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 69g
  • Vitamin C: 6mg
  • Calcium: 94mg
  • Iron: 5mg
  • Potassium: 789mg

Preparation Overview

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Additional Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Servings: 10

This Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey recipe is a celebration of flavors, perfect for your holiday table!

Comments