Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey

Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey

Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

This Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey is seasoned with aromatic herbs, citrus, and champagne to ensure a moist and flavorful bird. The champagne and broth combination infuses the meat with incredible taste and keeps it from drying out. Serve this showstopping turkey at your holiday table for a meal to remember!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Servings: 10

Ingredients

For the Herb Rub:

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

For the Turkey:

  • 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 celery stalks, sliced into ½-inch pieces
  • 1 (750 ml) bottle of champagne
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can of chicken broth
Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a large roasting pan with aluminum foil, ensuring that you have enough foil to wrap around the entire turkey.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, lemon-pepper seasoning, and salt.

2. Season and Stuff the Turkey:

  • Rub the herb mixture evenly inside the turkey cavity, ensuring that the flavors infuse the meat.
  • Stuff the cavity with orange wedges, onion, carrot, and celery. These aromatics add incredible moisture and flavor.
  • Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body to ensure even roasting.

3. Prepare for Roasting:

     •    Position the turkey in the roasting pan lined with foil, making sure the breast is facing upward.

  • Pour the champagne and chicken broth over the turkey, ensuring some liquid goes inside the cavity for extra moisture.
  • Carefully fold the aluminum foil over the turkey, sealing it tightly to lock in the steam and juices.

4. Roast the Turkey:

  • Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the juices run clear.
  • Carefully uncover the turkey and continue roasting for 30 to 60 more minutes, or until the skin turns golden brown.
  • To check for doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone). It should read 180°F (80°C).
  • If the skin begins to brown too quickly, loosely tent the turkey with foil.

5. Rest and Serve:

  • Take the turkey out of the oven and lightly drape a piece of foil over it, allowing it to rest undisturbed.Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps the juices to settle back into the meat, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.
  • Carve the turkey, serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!

Pro Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Turkey

Brining Option: If time allows, brine the turkey overnight in salted water, herbs, and citrus for extra flavor and tenderness.

Crispier Skin: For an ultra-crispy finish, pat the turkey skin dry before roasting and rub it with a little melted butter or olive oil.

Flavor Boost: Add fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme sprigs to the cavity for even more aroma.

Basting Alternative: Since this turkey steams in champagne and broth, frequent basting isn’t necessary. However, you can baste every hour for additional moisture.

Leftovers Idea: Shred leftover turkey for sandwiches, soups, or casseroles.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

Pair this juicy turkey with a light to medium-bodied white wine such as:

🍷 Chardonnay – Its buttery notes complement the turkey’s rich flavors.

🍷 Sauvignon Blanc – A crisp, citrusy contrast to the herbal seasoning.

🍷 Pinot Noir – If you prefer red wine, its bright acidity pairs beautifully with turkey.

This Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey is guaranteed to be the star of your holiday table! The champagne-infused broth ensures tender, moist meat with layers of aromatic flavor. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a meal filled with warmth and joy.

🍂 Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃

End your meal on a sweet note with one of our irresistible(desserts), from classic treats to unique creations.

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