Here is a handy chart to show you how to thaw your turkey:

You can thaw a turkey in the refrigerator.  You should allow approximately 24 hours for each 4 to 5 pounds in a refrigerator. Your refrigerator should be set at 40 °F or below.  Its a good idea to place the turkey on a pan or tray to prevent the juices from messing up your frig or dripping on other foods.

  •  4 to 12 pounds ……  1 to 3 days
  • 12 to 16 pounds …… 3 to 4 days
  • 16 to 20 pounds …… 4 to 5 days
  • 20 to 24 pounds …… 5 to 6 days

You can thaw a turkey in cold water.  

Allow about 30 minutes per pound.

You should place the turkey in a leak-proof plastic bag before putting it in the cold water. This prevents the turkey from absorbing excess water. If the turkey gets soaked with excess water ( that is not seasoned and made into a brine) it will taste watery.

After you have the turkey in a plastic bag you can submerge it in cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the turkey is thawed.
Cold Water Thawing Times

  •  4 to 12 pounds …… 2 to 6 hours
  • 12 to 16 pounds …… 6 to 8 hours
  • 16 to 20 pounds …… 8 to 10 hours
  • 20 to 24 pounds …… 10 to 12 hours

After thawing your turkey in cold water you must either store it in the refrigerator or cook it.

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