Deep-frying a turkey is a delicious way to cook your Thanksgiving bird, but it’s important to follow the proper cooking times to ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection. The Butterball Turkey Fryer Time Chart provides guidelines for how long to cook your turkey based on its weight. For example, a 12-pound turkey should be fried for approximately 45 minutes, while a 20-pound turkey may take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey before serving. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thigh. Always follow safety precautions when deep-frying a turkey, such as using the fryer outdoors on a flat surface and keeping a fire extinguisher nearby.
Preparing Your Turkey
Before deep-frying your turkey, be sure to properly thaw and dry the bird. Remove any packaging and giblets from the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey with your desired seasonings and inject marinade if desired. Make sure the fryer is filled with the appropriate amount of oil and preheated to the correct temperature before lowering the turkey into the fryer.
Once the turkey is in the fryer, monitor the cooking time closely and adjust as needed based on the weight of the turkey. Use the Butterball Turkey Fryer Time Chart as a guide but always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey is cooked to the proper temperature. Once the turkey is cooked, carefully remove it from the fryer and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving and serving.