The Secret Ingredient for the Juiciest Turkey Every Time

Thanksgiving isn’t a true feast without a succulent turkey adorning the table, and there are countless methods that claim to create the perfect bird. But there’s a secret (and celebratory) twist to this recipe that may just be the most unexpected ever.

Roasting your Thanksgiving turkey is serious business; the seasonings, herbs, and liquids you use all lend to a full-flavored, irresistibly juicy experience if cooked correctly. But, when things don’t go as planned, you wind up with a dry turkey nary a gravy can save. Fortunately, Allrecipes member Kirsten’s mouthwatering recipe ensures your meat will always come out tender and moist thanks to one key ingredient.

The Secret Ingredient for Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey

The 5-star flavor of this dish comes courtesy of Champagne. Similarly to adding a bit of broth to the bottom of your roasting pan, the sparkling wine helps to steam the turkey and retain the must-have tenderness in the meat. But this recipe takes it a step further even: Rather than simply pouring the Champagne into the pan, you line the pan with foil, fill it up with the bubbles, then wrap it around the turkey creating a sealed packet for the turkey to cook in. Because the packet is filled with Champagne, the steam is trapped inside, keeping the turkey moist while it cooks and ensuring it won’t dry out.

Not only is the Champagne steam infusing the meat with moisture, but it’s also adding flavor. The subtle fruit-like flavors of Champagne are a perfect complement to the orange wedges, thyme, and sage also used in the mix.

Grab a bottle of your favorite bubbly (but really any white wine will work) and get ready for top-tier results. Our community of home cooks loves how easy it is to create explosive flavor with pantry-friendly ingredients and a party drink that you may already have on hand.

“I’ve been using this recipe consistently for 10+ years, it’s a staple in our house,” shares one Allrecipes member. “This recipe has made me the “turkey guy” for family dinners because the results are always the same—the best moist turkey your palate will ever taste.”

Get the Recipe: Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey

How to Make Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey

Ready to serve up a moist, golden brown turkey your guests will love? Start the process by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and assembling all of your ingredients, separating out the dried herbs, produce, and liquids.

Stir the dry ingredients together and use the mixture to rub inside the cavity of the bird. Follow with the orange wedges and vegetable medley. Truss the turkey and place it in a large foil-lined roasting pan.

Next, pour chicken broth and Champagne over the turkey. Wrap the up and over the bird and seal it over top of the turkey without it actually touching the skin. Roast it for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Uncover the turkey and allow it to cook for another 30 to 60 minutes, or until the skin is a rich golden color. Remove it from the oven and allow the turkey to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving and voila! The most juicy turkey you’ve ever had is ready.

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