THAWING : The Big Un-Chill
There are three ways to thaw a frozen, unstuffed turkey. An evenly thawed turkey may be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before roasting. Do not refreeze an uncooked turkey after it has been thawed.
Refrigerator Method
The best, although slowest, way of thawing. Place the bird on a tray in its original wrapping, then put it in the refrigerator until thawed. When partly thawed, remove the bag of giblets from the body cavity and reserve in the refrigerator for making gravy or stuffing.
Turkey Weight
Approximate Thawing Time
4 to 12 pounds--1 to 2 days
12 to 20 pounds--2 to 3 days
20 to 24 pounds--3 to 4 days
Quick-Thaw Method
Leave the turkey in its original wrapping, place it in a large kettle and cover with cold water. Change the water frequently to speed thawing. Thaw until the bird is pliable.
Turkey Weight
Approximate Thawing Time
4 to 12 pounds--4 to 6 hours
12 to 20 pounds--6 to 8 hours
20 to 24 pounds--8 to 12 hours
Microwave Method
If the microwave is large enough to accommodate a turkey, thaw it in a glass baking dish, following manufacturer’s directions. It may take 1 to 1 1/2 hours on defrost cycle.