How to Cook Turkey Thighs: A Comprehensive Guide

Turkey thighs are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. They are a great option for a smaller Thanksgiving meal or any other time you want to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.

In this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about how to cook turkey thighs, including:

• Choosing the right turkey thighs: Look for thighs that are about 1 pound each and have a good amount of skin on them.
• Preparing the turkey thighs: Pat the turkey thighs dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as herbs, spices, or a marinade.
• Cooking the turkey thighs: There are several different ways to cook turkey thighs, including roasting, grilling, and slow cooking. The cooking time will vary depending on the method you choose.
• Checking for doneness: The turkey thighs are done cooking when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
• Resting the turkey thighs: Once the turkey thighs are cooked, let them rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. This will help them retain their juices and keep them moist.

Easy Roasted Turkey Thighs Recipe

This recipe from Dinner then Dessert is a great way to cook turkey thighs in the oven. It is simple to follow and results in juicy and flavorful turkey.

Ingredients:

• 2 1-pound turkey thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Pat the turkey thighs dry with paper towels.
3. Season the turkey thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Lift the turkey skin and stuff it with the softened butter, then pat it down in an even layer (gently).
5. Place the thighs in a baking pan.
6. Roast the turkey thighs for 50-60 minutes or until the thermometer shows the turkey is cooked to 170 degrees.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, try adding some herbs or spices to the butter before stuffing it under the skin.
• You can also add vegetables to the baking pan with the turkey thighs, such as potatoes, carrots, or onions.
• If you want crispy skin, broil the turkey thighs for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.

Roasted Turkey Thighs Recipe from Allrecipes

This recipe from Allrecipes is another great option for cooking turkey thighs in the oven. It includes a flavorful herb butter that is rubbed under the skin of the turkey before roasting.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup salted butter, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pound baby potatoes
• 2 large onions, roughly chopped
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 turkey thighs
• 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Stir butter, thyme, rosemary, parsley, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Set herb butter aside.
3. Place potatoes, onions, and garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
4. Pat dry turkey thighs with a paper towel; season with salt and pepper. Lay turkey thighs over vegetables on the baking sheet. Rub herb butter under turkey skin and over meat. Top with lemon zest and juice.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Baste turkey with sheet juices and continue baking, basting turkey every 15 minutes, until thighs are no longer pink in the centers, about 30 minutes more. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you cook turkey thighs?

The cooking time for turkey thighs will vary depending on the method you choose. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should cook turkey thighs for about 1 hour per pound.

What temperature should turkey thighs be cooked to?

The turkey thighs are done cooking when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Can you cook turkey thighs without skin?

Yes, you can cook turkey thighs without skin. However, the skin helps to keep the turkey moist and flavorful. If you do cook turkey thighs without skin, you may need to add a little extra moisture to the pan, such as by adding some broth or water.

What can I serve with turkey thighs?

Turkey thighs can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, vegetables, or salad.

Turkey thighs are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. With this guide, you can learn how to cook turkey thighs perfectly every time.