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How Long to Thaw a Turkey

Learn how to thaw turkey with two easy methods that help safely thaw your turkey in as little time as possible. Includes a free printable turkey thawing chart to easily reference each holiday season. 

Thawed turkey with herb butter in pan.
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Safely Thaw a Frozen Turkey

It’s that time of year to start thinking about your Thanksgiving turkey. If you’ve never cooked one before, you’re probably wondering what the turkey thawing time is. But have no fear, you’ll find all of the information you need to get started right here!

When making a roasted turkey or smoked turkey for your Thanksgiving menu, make sure you let it thaw in time before cooking! The last thing you want is to wake up on Thanksgiving morning with a rock hard frozen turkey. It happens to the best of us, but is definitely not ideal.

Today I’m going to show you how to thaw a turkey with two different thawing methods (in the refrigerator or in water). The refrigerator method is easier, but takes longer. Thawing a turkey in water requires a bit more work, but is quicker. Each way works great, so it all depends on what works best for your schedule.

Thawing frozen turkey in fridge.

Refrigerator Method

This is probably the most classic method for thawing a turkey. It’s super simple and requires hardly any work. The hardest part is just remembering to put the turkey in the fridge a few days in advance. It does take a little longer than other methods, so always allow about 24 hours for every 5 pounds. For instance, a 20-pound turkey will take 4 days.

Instructions: Place the packaged turkey (turkey breast-side up) in a large roasting pan, a rimmed baking sheet, or tray. This helps catch any liquid or juices that leak out while thawing. Then place in the fridge to thaw completely (refer to chart below for total thawing time). You’re now ready to make your favorite turkey recipe.

  • 5 pounds: let thaw 1 day
  • 10 pounds: let thaw 2 days
  • 15 pounds: let thaw 3 days
  • 20 pounds: let thaw 4 days
  • 25 pounds: let thaw 5 days
  • 30 pounds: let thaw 6 days
Thawing frozen turkey in bucket of water.

Thawing Turkey in Water

You can also thaw a frozen turkey with the cold water method. This method is a lot quicker, but requires more work and attention. You can place the whole turkey in your sink, a large pot, or a bucket of water nd set it inside on the counter or even in a heated garage. Allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound of turkey.

Instructions: Before getting started, the turkey must be in a leak-proof package, original wrapping, or plastic bag (the raw meat should never touch the water). Place the wrapped turkey in the sink or bucket, then submerge with cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes so that it doesn’t get too warm.

  • 5 pounds: thaw for 2.5 hours
  • 10 pounds: thaw for 5 hours
  • 15 pounds: thaw for 7.5 hours
  • 20 pounds: thaw for 10 hours
  • 25 pounds: thaw for 12.5 hours
  • 30 pounds: thaw for 15 hours

FAQs

How long does a thawed turkey last in the fridge?

If you are using the refrigerator method for thawing frozen turkey, it can be kept up to 2 days in the refrigerator before cooking. If you have used the cold water method, your turkey will need to be cooked immediately.

Can I thaw frozen turkey in the microwave?

Yes, but first ensure that it fits in your microwave. Next, remove all wrapping and place on a microwave safe dish to catch juices. A microwave-thawed turkey will need to be cooked immediately.

When should I defrost my Thanksgiving turkey?

If you are using the refrigerator method and have a 20 pound bird, it will take 4 days. You can then safely keep it in the fridge for two days. With this timeline, you can thaw your turkey up to 6 days before cooking it. Adjust timeline as needed.

Can I defrot my turkey at room temperature?

No, this is not a safe method. Even if the inside is still frozen the thawed outer layer will thaw first and be susceptible to bacteria.

Can I cook a turkey if it is still frozen?

While this is possible, it could take at least 50% longer to get done and for a partially thawed turkey it may take up to 30% longer in the oven. Always check with a thermometer inserted into the innermost part of thigh to determine if your turkey is ready to eat. The temperature should be 165°F.

Turkey thawing chart.

FREE Printable Turkey Thawing Chart

This is a helpful visual to print out and have handy this holiday season. It also includes a turkey roasting chart. You can even get it laminated to reference year after year!

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turkey thawing chart

How Long to Thaw a Turkey

5 from 2 votes
↑ Click stars to rate now!
Author: Jamielyn Nye
Plan ahead to make sure your turkey is ready on the big day. Here are 2 surefire ways to thaw your turkey in time. This recipe is based on a 5-pound turkey, so please refer to the chart for time needed for the size of your bird.
Prep Time: 0 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Thaw Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people

Ingredients 

  • 5 pound turkey

Instructions

Refrigerator Thawing Method

  • In a large roasting pan, a rimmed baking sheet, or tray, place the packaged turkey, breast-side up – this helps catch any liquid or juices that leak out while thawing.
  • Place in the fridge to thaw completely. This size bird will thaw in 1 day, but refer to the chart or see notes for total thawing time based on the weight of your turkey.

Water Thawing Method

  • Before getting started, the turkey must be in a leak-proof package, original wrapping, or plastic bag (the raw meat should never touch the water).
  • Place the wrapped turkey in the sink or bucket, then submerge with cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes so that it doesn’t get too warm.
  • Thaw completely. This size bird will thaw in 2 1/2 hours, but refer to the chart or see notes for total thawing time based on the weight of your turkey

Notes

Refrigerator thawing method times:
  • 5 pounds: let thaw 1 day
  • 10 pounds: let thaw 2 days
  • 15 pounds: let thaw 3 days
  • 20 pounds: let thaw 4 days
  • 25 pounds: let thaw 5 days
  • 30 pounds: let thaw 6 days
Water thawing method times:
  • 5 pounds: thaw for 2.5 hours
  • 10 pounds: thaw for 5 hours
  • 15 pounds: thaw for 7.5 hours
  • 20 pounds: thaw for 10 hours
  • 25 pounds: thaw for 12.5 hours
  • 30 pounds: thaw for 15 hours
 

Nutrition

Calories: 378kcal | Protein: 58g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 193mg | Sodium: 301mg | Potassium: 601mg | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 150IU | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

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