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Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey: The Ultimate Showstopper Recipe


  • Author: Eleanor
  • Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8-10 people 1x

Description

Thanksgiving is synonymous with gathering around the table to savor delicious food, and what better centerpiece than a succulent Thanksgiving turkey? This mouthwatering bird not only serves as a focal point for your festive feast but also brings families together in celebration. The aroma of a perfectly roasted, tender turkey wafting through the home is an invitation to indulge and rejoice.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  • 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, cut into ½-inch slices

  • 2 stalks celery, cut into ½-inch slices

  • 1 (750 milliliter) bottle champagne

  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth


Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

  • In a bowl, mix together dried parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, lemon-pepper seasoning, and salt.

  • Rub this seasoning mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get it under the skin.

  • Stuff the turkey’s cavity with orange wedges, chopped onion, carrot slices, and celery chunks.

  • Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour champagne and chicken broth around it.

  • Roast the turkey for about 13 minutes per pound.

  • Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

  • Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.

  • Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

Notes

  • Brining the turkey overnight will improve moisture retention and flavor.

  • You can roast the turkey at a high temperature initially and then reduce the heat for better results.

  • Be sure to baste the turkey throughout cooking for added flavor and juiciness.

  • Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours (about 13 minutes per pound)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 200 per serving (estimate)
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: Thanksgiving, turkey, holiday meal, juicy turkey, roast turkey