Description
Learn how to cook a juicy, tender, and crispy spatchcock turkey faster than a traditional roast. This method involves flattening the bird for even cooking and flavorful results, perfect for holiday feasts and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Whole turkey (10-14 lbs), fresh or fully thawed
- Butter or olive oil (4-6 tbsp)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage), chopped
- Garlic cloves (4-6 minced)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon zest and juice, from 1 lemon
- Optional smoked paprika or chili flakes (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace and Tools: Clear a large cutting board and gather sharp kitchen shears or a chef’s knife along with paper towels. Ensure the turkey is fresh or fully thawed and pat dry completely to promote crispy skin.
- Spatchcock the Turkey: Place the turkey breast-side down. Using shears, cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it completely. Flip the bird over and firmly press down on the breastbone to flatten the turkey as much as possible, allowing for even cooking.
- Season Generously: Mix softened butter or olive oil with minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Rub the mixture under the skin and all over the turkey surface, ensuring full coverage to infuse flavor and lock in moisture.
- Preheat the Oven and Arrange the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the flattened turkey breast side up on a roasting rack inside a large baking sheet or roasting pan to allow even heat circulation.
- Roast and Monitor: Roast the turkey for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the thickest thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. Baste occasionally if desired to enhance moisture and color.
- Rest Before Carving: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender bites.
Notes
- Dry the skin thoroughly before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Use a roasting rack to elevate the bird and promote even cooking.
- Don’t skip the resting period; it keeps the meat juicy and moist.
- Use a reliable meat thermometer to check doneness accurately.
- Allow butter and herbs to come to room temperature for easier and more even spreading under the skin.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: spatchcock turkey, quick turkey roast, holiday turkey, crispy turkey skin, easy turkey recipe
