HomeHow Long to Brine Turkey
Complete wet brine and dry brine timing guide.
| Cut | Wet Brine | Dry Brine |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Turkey (12-14 lbs) | 12 hrs | 24-48 hrs |
| Whole Turkey (16-20 lbs) | 12-24 hrs | 24-48 hrs |
| Turkey Breast | 6-18 hrs | 12-24 hrs |
Salt Ratio
1 cup kosher salt per gallon of water (wet), 1 tbsp per 5 lbs (dry)
Wet vs Dry
Wet adds moisture but can make skin soggy; dry brine concentrates flavor and crisps skin
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I brine Turkey?
Brining time for Turkey depends on the cut: Whole Turkey (12-14 lbs) (wet: 12 hrs, dry: 24-48 hrs); Whole Turkey (16-20 lbs) (wet: 12-24 hrs, dry: 24-48 hrs); Turkey Breast (wet: 6-18 hrs, dry: 12-24 hrs).
Should I wet brine or dry brine Turkey?
Wet adds moisture but can make skin soggy; dry brine concentrates flavor and crisps skin
What is the salt ratio for brining Turkey?
1 cup kosher salt per gallon of water (wet), 1 tbsp per 5 lbs (dry)
Can I brine Turkey for too long?
Yes, over-brining can make Turkey too salty and can affect texture. Do not exceed the maximum brining times listed above.
Do I need to rinse Turkey after brining?
For wet brine, rinse briefly and pat dry. For dry brine, simply pat dry without rinsing. Patting dry is important for crispy skin.