Spatchcock Turkey Recipe | How To Spatchcock A Turkey

If you’re looking to make a show-stopping turkey with juicy meat and crispy skin in less time, this Spatchcock Turkey recipe is perfect for you! Learn how to spatchcock, season, and roast a turkey for a faster, evenly cooked, and flavorful bird that’s sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Tasty Turkey Recipe

• Cooks Faster. Spatchcocking reduces cooking time significantly.
• Juicy and Even Cooking. Flattening the turkey allows it to cook more evenly, so the breast meat stays juicy while the thighs cook through.
• Crispy Skin. More skin is exposed, resulting in perfectly crispy skin all over.
• Easy to Season. Flattened turkey makes it easy to season every inch with your favorite herbs and spices.

This Spatchcock Turkey is the ultimate way to cook turkey efficiently without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture that makes a holiday meal memorable.

What Is A Spatchcock Turkey?

Spatchcocking, also known as butterflying, is a method where the backbone is removed so the turkey can be flattened before cooking. This technique allows the bird to cook faster and more evenly, making it ideal for achieving juicy meat and crispy skin in less time.

Is It Worth Spatchcocking A Turkey?

Absolutely! The faster cooking, juicier meat, and crispy skin make spatchcocking a turkey a great choice, especially for holiday meals or gatherings. If you’re willing to try this prep method, you’ll likely find it enhances the cooking process and the end result.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Whole Turkey (10-14 lbs)– Choose a fresh or thawed turkey for best results.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter– Helps crisp up the skin while keeping the meat moist.
• Salt and Black Pepper– Essential seasonings for flavor.
• Garlic Powder– Adds depth and aroma.
• Fresh Herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)– Provides aromatic flavor; fresh herbs work best for roasting.
• Lemon or Orange Zest (optional)– Adds a hint of citrus freshness to brighten the flavors.

How To Make A Spatchcock Turkey

1. Prepare the Turkey. Place the turkey breast-side down on a cutting board. Using kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone to remove it. Turn the turkey breast-side up and press down firmly on the breastbone until the turkey flattens.
2. Season. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Rub olive oil or melted butter all over the turkey. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle fresh herbs and lemon zest, if using, over the skin.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Place the spatchcocked turkey on the rack, breast-side up, with the legs splayed outward.
4. Roast the Turkey. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Roast the turkey for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness.
5. Rest and Serve. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist. Garnish with extra herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips to ensure your Spatchcock Turkey turns out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked:

• Dry the Skin Thoroughly. Pat the turkey dry to achieve that crispy, golden skin.
• Season Generously. Don’t hold back on salt and herbs for the best flavor. Rubbing seasoning under the skin is a great way to infuse flavor into the meat.
• Use a Meat Thermometer. Check for doneness in multiple spots to ensure the turkey is fully cooked without overcooking.
• Let it Rest. Resting the turkey keeps it juicy. If you carve it too soon, the juices will run out, leaving the meat dry.

Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic Spatchcock Turkey, try some of these flavor variations to change things up:

• Herb Butter-: Rub softened herb butter under and over the skin for a rich, buttery flavor.
• Citrus Herb- Add lemon or orange slices under the turkey and a squeeze of citrus over the bird for a fresh twist.
• Smoked Paprika- Mix smoked paprika with olive oil and rub it on the turkey for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Maple Glazed- Brush maple syrup over the turkey halfway through cooking for a touch of sweetness and beautiful caramelization.

What To Eat With A Spatchcock Turkey

This juicy, flavorful turkey pairs perfectly with a variety of classic sides. Here are a few options to create a memorable meal:

• Mashed Potatoes- Creamy mashed potatoes are a must for soaking up the turkey’s juices.
• Green Bean Casserole- A classic holiday side that complements the rich flavors of the turkey.
• Stuffing- Traditional bread stuffing or cornbread stuffing is a great pairing.
• Cranberry Sauce- Sweet-tart cranberry sauce adds a bright contrast to the savory turkey.
• Roasted Vegetables- Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or squash make a colorful, delicious addition to your plate.

How Long Does It Last?

Leftover Spatchcock Turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The meat can be used in sandwiches, soups, or salads for delicious meals after the big feast.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze leftover turkey for future meals!

Let the turkey cool completely, then slice and transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. To reheat the turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Frozen turkey can last in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

More Terrific Ways To Use Turkey

• Turkey Stew
• Roasted Turkey Breast
• Turkey Pot Pie
• Club Sandwich
• Turkey Lettuce Wraps

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