Defrosting your turkey in the fridge is not only safest way to do it, but it's also super convenient. You can just stick that turkey in the fridge and let it do its thing, without having to worry about it sitting out at room temperature. Plus, it helps prevent bacterial growth, which is a major win in my book!
Now, I know what you're thinking: "How long does it actually take to defrost a turkey in the fridge?" Well, it's pretty simple: just allow about 24 hours of defrosting time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. So, if you've got a big ol' bird, you'll want to start defrosting it a few days before the big feast. Easy peasy!
So, what are the perks of defrosting your turkey in the fridge? For starters, it helps prevent foodborne illness, which is a major concern when it comes to poultry. Plus, it makes the whole cooking process a lot less stressful, since you won't have to worry about rushing to get the turkey cooked on time. And let's be real, who doesn't love a moist and juicy turkey?
Turkey Thawing Times by Weight (Refrigerator vs. Cold Water