Easy Oven Roasted Citrus Turkey Recipe
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a deliciously roasted turkey? This Easy Oven Roasted Citrus Turkey recipe is sure to impress your guests and make your holiday meal one to remember. With a tangy citrus flavor and a perfectly crispy skin, this turkey is both flavorful and moist. Follow these simple steps to create a mouth-watering centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
For the turkey:
- 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey, thawed if frozen
- 2 oranges
- 2 lemons
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the gravy:
- 2 cups turkey drippings
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Step 1: Preparing the turkey
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan.
Step 2: Citrus stuffing
Cut one orange and one lemon into quarters. Stuff the cavity of the turkey with the orange and lemon quarters, onion, minced garlic, rosemary sprigs, and thyme sprigs. These aromatics will infuse the turkey with a wonderful flavor as it roasts.
Step 3: Trussing the turkey
If desired, truss the turkey to help it cook evenly. Trussing involves tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This step is optional but can help the turkey retain its shape and cook more evenly.
Step 4: Citrus butter rub
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, juice from the remaining orange and lemon, salt, and pepper. Brush the citrus butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat the entire surface.
Step 5: Roasting the turkey
Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast it for about 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 6: Resting and carving
Once the turkey reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender turkey. Carve the turkey and serve with your favorite sides and gravy.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this Easy Oven Roasted Citrus Turkey recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you can try:
Herb-Roasted Citrus Turkey:
Add additional herbs such as sage, parsley, or marjoram to the citrus butter rub for an extra burst of flavor.
Spicy Citrus Turkey:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the citrus butter rub for a spicy kick.
Citrus-Glazed Turkey:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey with a mixture of orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Tips
Follow these tips to ensure your Easy Oven Roasted Citrus Turkey turns out perfectly:
- Thaw the turkey completely if using a frozen turkey. This can take several days in the refrigerator, so plan ahead.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey, ensuring it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Let the turkey rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful turkey.
- Save the turkey drippings to make a delicious gravy. Skim off the fat, then whisk in flour and broth, cooking until thickened.
Conclusion
This Easy Oven Roasted Citrus Turkey recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare a delicious Thanksgiving turkey. The combination of tangy citrus, aromatic herbs, and crispy skin will leave your guests craving for more. With a few variations and some helpful tips, you can make this recipe your own and create a turkey that will be the star of your holiday feast. Enjoy and happy Thanksgiving!
FAQs
Can I use different citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits such as grapefruit or lime to add your own twist to the recipe. Just make sure to adjust the amounts accordingly.
Can I stuff the turkey with other ingredients?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the cavity of the turkey, such as apples, onions, or fresh herbs. Just make sure not to overstuff it, as this can affect the cooking time and result in unevenly cooked meat.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it when needed. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
