Description
A Pioneer Woman Spatchcock Turkey is a whole turkey prepared by removing the backbone and flattening it before roasting. This technique allows for faster, even cooking, resulting in juicy meat and perfectly crispy skin. It’s a popular choice for holidays, offering a quicker alternative to traditional roasting without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh herbs and lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the turkey: Place the turkey breast-side down on a clean cutting board. Using kitchen shears, cut along one side of the backbone, from tail to neck. Repeat on the other side to remove the backbone fully. Set aside the backbone for making stock, if desired.
- Flatten the turkey: Flip the turkey over, breast-side up. Press down firmly on the breastbone with the palms of your hands until the turkey flattens out and lays evenly. Tuck the wing tips under the turkey to prevent burning.
- Make the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil or melted butter, salt, pepper, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
- Season the turkey: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin if possible, for maximum flavor.
- Prepare for roasting: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the turkey on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or a roasting pan.
- Roast the turkey: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Rotate the pan halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Rest the turkey: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation, and serve hot.