HomeHow to Thaw Turkey
Safe defrosting times for fridge, cold water, and microwave methods.
Refrigerator thawing is the safest method. Change cold water every 30 minutes.
| Cut | Fridge | Cold Water | Microwave |
|---|---|---|---|
Whole Turkey (8-12 lbs) 8-12 lbs | 48-72 hrs | 4-6 hrs | Not recommended |
Whole Turkey (12-20 lbs) 12-20 lbs | 72-120 hrs | 6-10 hrs | Not recommended |
Turkey Breast (4-8 lbs) 4-8 lbs | 24-48 hrs | 3-5 hrs | Not recommended |
Fridge Rule
24 hours per 4-5 lbs
Cook from Frozen?
Thaw first recommended
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to thaw Turkey?
Thawing time depends on the cut and method: Whole Turkey (8-12 lbs): 48-72 hours in fridge, 4-6 hours in cold water; Whole Turkey (12-20 lbs): 72-120 hours in fridge, 6-10 hours in cold water; Turkey Breast (4-8 lbs): 24-48 hours in fridge, 3-5 hours in cold water.
Can I thaw Turkey at room temperature?
No. Never thaw Turkey at room temperature. Bacteria grow rapidly between 40-140°F. Use the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave methods only.
Can I cook Turkey from frozen?
It is recommended to thaw Turkey before cooking for best results and even cooking.
How to defrost Turkey quickly?
The fastest safe method is cold water thawing: seal Turkey in a leak-proof bag and submerge in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This is significantly faster than fridge thawing.
Can I refreeze Turkey after thawing?
Turkey thawed in the refrigerator can be safely refrozen within 1-2 days, though quality may decrease. Never refreeze Turkey thawed by cold water or microwave methods without cooking first.