How to Take the Turkey Temperature
Turkey Breast Temperature To take the temperature of the breast, insert the thermometer into the deepest part of the breast, holding it parallel to the bird at the neck end. Confirm the temperature by inserting the thermometer in both sides of the breast, being careful to not go so deep as to hit the bone (which can compromise the reading).
Turkey Thigh Temperature Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, away from the bone, to take the temperature. Confirm the temperature by inserting the thermometer in both thighs.
For the Safest Turkey, Check the Internal Temperature
You may have noticed that many recipes instruct you to check the turkey’s internal temperature. That’s because the most accurate way to determine whether a turkey (or other poultry or meats, for that matter) is properly cooked is to check the internal temperature, rather than jiggling a leg or making sure the juices run clear.
Here’s how to take your turkey’s temperature precisely and confirm that it has reached the appropriate internal temperature for consumption.
PART 2: PREP YOUR TURKEY SKIN FOR THE OVEN OR SMOKER
Crispy skin is one of the best components of a well-cooked turkey. Additionally, for crispy skin after cooking, dry skin must exist before cooking. Water on the meat’s surface will slow down the cooking process and result in uneven browning. Before the cooking process can start, the heat from the oven or smoker must work to remove the moisture from the surface.
Therefore, prepare your turkey skin by either drying it or, even better, dry brining it before cooking.
Pat your turkey dry with paper towels right before cooking. (This is crucial if you brined your turkey in salt water while wet.) Before seasoning, be sure to thoroughly dry the turkey’s surface, including the interior of the main cavity and neck cavity.
FAQ
Is turkey done at 165 or 180?
Hold the thermometer still until the numbers stop to properly read the temperature. The turkey is cooked if it reaches a temperature of between 160 and 165 degrees F.
What temperature is a turkey thigh done?
When the breast temperature reaches 165 degrees and the thickest part of the thighs reaches 170 to 175 degrees, it is advised that you take the bird out of the oven.
Is a turkey done at 150 degrees?
The USDA’s own statistics show that as long as your turkey spends at least three It is safe to eat after 7 minutes at or above 150°F (66°C). To put it another way, once it has rested (you do let your turkey rest before carving, right? ), you should be good to go.
Where do you put thermometer in turkey thigh?
Put an instant-read meat thermometer in the thickest part of the breast, the innermost part of the thigh, and the wing when checking the temperature of your turkey. Before putting your turkey in the oven, place an oven-proof food thermometer in the thickest part of the inner thigh.
