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Spatchcock Turkey

A perfectly roasted spatchcock turkey, glistening with herbs and spices, ready to be served.

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Learn how to spatchcock a turkey for faster, more even cooking and extra crispy skin. This technique ensures a juicy bird every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole turkey (1215 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Place the turkey breast-side down on a clean cutting board.
  3. Using sturdy kitchen shears, cut along one side of the turkey’s backbone, from the tail end to the neck end.
  4. Repeat the cut on the other side of the backbone. Remove the backbone and set aside for gravy if desired.
  5. Flip the turkey over so it is breast-side up.
  6. Press down firmly on the breastbone with the heel of your hand to flatten the turkey. You may hear a crack as the breastbone breaks.
  7. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
  8. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
  9. Rub the herb and oil mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin of the breast.
  10. Place the spatchcocked turkey on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
  11. Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).
  12. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Notes

  • For easier handling, you can remove the turkey legs and wings before spatchcocking.
  • If you don’t have kitchen shears, you can use a sharp chef’s knife, but it will be more difficult.
  • You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions to the baking sheet around the turkey during the last 45 minutes of cooking.
  • Consider using a meal planning service to help organize your Thanksgiving dinner preparations.

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