Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Citrus Herb Turkey is all about bold flavors and succulent tenderness. The citrus juices infuse the turkey with a bright, refreshing taste, while the herb butter ensures that each bite is juicy and full of savory goodness. The roasting method, combined with basting and careful temperature control, creates a perfectly golden, crispy skin. It’s a beautiful and flavorful centerpiece that will elevate any feast.

Ingredients

1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 lemons, zested and juiced
2 oranges, zested and juiced
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh sage
6 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for basting)
Olive oil (for drizzling)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Thaw the Turkey

If using a frozen turkey, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days before cooking. This will ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Mixture

In a bowl, combine softened butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, orange juice, orange zest, garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a fragrant herb butter.

Step 3: Season the Turkey

Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Generously season both the inside of the turkey cavity and the skin with salt and black pepper. This step helps to enhance the flavors and ensure the turkey is seasoned evenly.

Step 4: Apply the Herb Butter

Gently separate the skin from the turkey breast without tearing it. Spread half of the herb butter mixture underneath the skin, and use the remaining butter to rub on the outside of the turkey. This will help keep the turkey moist and flavorful during cooking.

Step 5: Brine (Optional)

If you have the time, submerge the turkey in a brine solution overnight. This optional step enhances the flavor and moisture retention, ensuring a tender and juicy turkey.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the ideal temperature to roast the turkey evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked bird.

Step 7: Prepare for Roasting

Place the seasoned turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan, which will help keep the turkey moist while creating flavorful drippings for a delicious gravy.

Step 8: Roast the Turkey

Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from browning too quickly. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 hours.

Step 9: Baste the Turkey

Every 30 minutes, use the broth in the pan to baste the turkey. This helps to keep the turkey juicy and enhances the flavor. In the last 30-45 minutes of roasting, remove the foil to allow the skin to crisp up.

Step 10: Check Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast and thigh—once it reaches 165°F (74°C), the turkey is ready.

Step 11: Rest the Turkey

Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more succulent.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Optionally, garnish the turkey with additional fresh herbs and citrus slices for a stunning presentation. Serve your perfectly roasted Citrus Herb Turkey and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10-12
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus brining, if desired)
Cook Time: 1.5 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (plus 2-3 days for thawing, if needed)

Variations

Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley, oregano, or marjoram in place of the rosemary, thyme, and sage for a unique flavor profile.
Citrus Variations: You can use different citrus fruits such as grapefruits or limes for a twist on the classic lemon and orange combination.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the herb butter mixture for a subtle heat that complements the citrus.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the turkey in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also slice the turkey and heat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a frozen turkey?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for 2-3 days before cooking.

2. Is brining necessary for this recipe?

Brining is optional, but it does help to enhance the flavor and moisture of the turkey, especially if you’re cooking a large bird.

3. Can I cook the turkey without basting it?

Basting helps keep the turkey moist, but if you don’t want to do it, you can still achieve a tasty result by keeping the turkey covered with foil during the first half of cooking and removing it later for a crispy skin.

4. Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

Yes, store-bought low-sodium chicken broth works perfectly for this recipe.

5. How do I know when the turkey is done?

The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh. A meat thermometer is essential to ensure it’s cooked properly.

6. Can I use a different type of fat instead of butter?

You can substitute olive oil or a combination of oil and butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.

7. How can I make sure the turkey skin is crispy?

Roast the turkey uncovered during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to help the skin become golden and crispy.

8. Can I stuff the turkey with herbs or fruits?

Yes, you can stuff the turkey cavity with additional herbs, garlic, or citrus fruits for extra flavor. Just be sure not to overstuff it to allow for even cooking.

9. What do I do with the drippings?

The drippings in the roasting pan can be used to make a delicious gravy. Simply whisk in a bit of flour or cornstarch and cook the mixture until thickened.

10. Can I make this recipe with a smaller turkey?

Yes, you can adjust the cooking time if you’re using a smaller bird. For a 6-8 pound turkey, reduce the roasting time by about 30 minutes.

Conclusion

This Citrus Herb Turkey recipe is the perfect way to elevate your holiday meals or any special occasion. The combination of fresh citrus, aromatic herbs, and rich butter creates a flavorful and moist turkey that will become the star of your feast. With easy-to-follow steps and a delicious result, this turkey recipe is a must-try in 2025!