How Long Should You Let Turkey Rest? Expert Tips & Timing Guide

Why Resting Your Turkey Is the Secret to Juicy Meat

You’ve spent hours roasting your turkey to golden perfection, and now the aroma fills your kitchen. But before you dive in with your carving knife, there’s one crucial step that can make or break your Thanksgiving feast: letting the turkey rest. Resting isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the key to juicy, flavorful meat that’s worth the wait!

What Does “Resting” a Turkey Mean?

Resting a turkey simply means letting it sit undisturbed after it comes out of the oven. During this time, the juices inside the turkey redistribute evenly throughout the meat, making every bite moist and delicious. If you carve too soon, those flavorful juices spill out onto your cutting board instead of staying in the bird.

How Long Should You Rest a Turkey?

The ideal resting time depends on your turkey’s size:

• Small turkeys (8-12 lbs): Rest for at least 20-30 minutes.
• Medium turkeys (12-16 lbs): Aim for 30-40 minutes.
• Large turkeys (16+ lbs): Give them a full 40-60 minutes.

Even if you’re pressed for time, try not to skip at least a 20-minute rest. For best results, plan for about 45 minutes. This gives you plenty of time to finish up gravy and side dishes!

Why Does Resting Make Such a Difference?

While your turkey roasts, its juices are driven toward the center by the heat. If you slice right away, the juices escape, leaving your meat dry. Resting lets those juices settle and soak back into every part of the bird. The result? Succulent, flavorful turkey in every bite.

How to Rest a Turkey: Step-by-Step

1. Remove from oven: When your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, take it out of the oven.
2. Transfer to a board: Place your turkey on a large cutting board or platter. If you roasted it on a rack, let it rest on that rack.
3. Tent with foil: Loosely cover the turkey with aluminum foil. Don’t wrap it tightly—you want to keep it warm but avoid steaming the skin so it stays crisp.
4. Wait patiently: Set a timer for at least 20-30 minutes (longer for bigger birds). Use this time to prepare gravy or finish your sides.
5. Carve and serve: Once rested, carve your turkey and enjoy juicy slices!

Should You Tent Your Turkey with Foil?

Yes! Tenting your turkey with foil keeps it warm while it rests. Just make sure not to wrap it tightly—trapping too much steam can soften that beautiful crispy skin you worked so hard for. A loose tent is perfect for balancing warmth and texture.

Can You Let Turkey Rest Too Long?

While resting is essential, you don’t want your turkey to get cold. Most turkeys will stay pleasantly warm for up to an hour if loosely tented with foil. If you need more time, you can place the turkey in a warm (not hot) oven set to around 200°F (93°C) with the door slightly ajar.

What About Resting Turkey Breast?

If you’re roasting just a turkey breast, the same rules apply—let it rest! Since turkey breasts are smaller, aim for a minimum of 15-20 minutes. This helps keep those lean cuts moist and tender.

Does Resting Apply to Deep-Fried or Smoked Turkeys?

Absolutely! Whether you deep-fry or smoke your turkey, resting is still essential. The method doesn’t matter—the goal is always juicy, evenly cooked meat.

Resting Turkey FAQ

Q: Can I skip resting if I’m short on time?

A: It’s not recommended. Even a short rest (20 minutes) makes a big difference in juiciness.

Q: Will my turkey get cold while resting?

A: Not if you tent it loosely with foil. It will stay warm for up to an hour.

Q: What if I want extra-crispy skin?

A: Tent loosely so steam doesn’t soften the skin. For extra crispness, pop carved pieces under the broiler for a minute before serving.

Q: Can I rest my turkey in the roasting pan?

A: Yes, but moving it to a board allows air circulation and prevents overcooking from residual heat.

Q: What should I do while my turkey rests?

A: Use this time to make gravy from pan drippings, finish side dishes, or set the table.

Final Tips for Perfectly Rested Turkey

• Resting is just as important as seasoning and roasting—don’t skip it!
• Tent loosely with foil to keep warm and preserve crispy skin.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey is cooked through before resting.
• Plan your meal timing so your turkey has space to rest before carving.
• If worried about timing, remember that rested turkey stays warm longer than you think.

Remember, patience pays off! Give your turkey time to rest and you’ll be rewarded with juicy, delicious slices that everyone will love.