Roast turkey is a must-have component of Thanksgiving menus across America. Whether you’re having Thanksgiving with family or hosting a “friendsgiving” dinner party, roast poultry is a delicious option for serving large crowds with ease. Since the bird will likely be the star of the show, you want to make sure you get it done right!
Start by choosing the right size based on the number guests. Once you know how many pounds of turkey you need, this handy reference chart simplifies the rest. Cooking time and oven temperature are important for food safety, as well as for keeping the poultry moist and flavorful. There are only a few variables in the equation for poultry perfection: weight, time and temperature. When it comes to roasting poultry, this chart will help you deliver juicy turkey, chicken or turducken every time.
Once you have a guest list, don’t let the serving size of an average bird limit your ideas. Plan for about half a pound of poultry per person, then mix and match to fill the menu. Plan a feast with a smaller turkey accompanied by quail and duck, or roast an extra large turkey to plan sandwiches and salads for the rest of the week.
Hopefully, this inspires you to be adventurous! Why not skip the chicken and try cooking a cornish hen or a pheasant, since preparation and serving size are almost the same? We’d love to hear about your roasting experience on Facebook. If you’re in need of some new gear, check out our kitchen accessories to make your poultry preparation as smooth as possible.