The Basic Turkey : THAWING
There are three ways to thaw a frozen turkey. An evenly thawed turkey may be kept in the refrigerator for up to two 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 and place it in the refrigerator until thawed. When it’s partially 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 wrap, place 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 in a glass baking dish, following the manufacturer’s directions. It may take 1 to 1 1/2 hours on defrost cycle.