Easy Roasted Turkey Thighs

User Reviews

4.8

87 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    50 mins

  • Total Time

    55 mins

  • Servings

    4 Servings

  • Calories

    458 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    American

Easy Roasted Turkey Thighs

Easy Roasted Turkey Thighs are prepared by stuffing softened butter under the skin of bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs, then seasoning with salt and coarse black pepper before roasting. The butter bastes the meat during cooking, helping keep the thighs moist and flavorful. Roasting at 350 degrees until an internal temperature of 170 degrees is reached ensures tender, juicy dark meat with flavorful, crisped skin.

Description

Easy Roasted Turkey Thighs feature a simple preparation where softened butter is gently spread under the skin to baste the meat as it cooks. Using bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs allows the dark meat to remain juicy and tender while developing a nicely browned exterior. The seasoning is kept minimal with kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper, keeping the flavor focused on the natural turkey enhanced by buttery richness. Roasting at a moderate 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes ensures even cooking and fully rendered fat from the skin.

The technique of lifting the skin to distribute butter evenly underneath helps prevent dryness and promotes flavorful, moist meat. After roasting, the turkey thighs have a crisp skin and richly flavored interior, ideal served with simple sides or pan juices.

This straightforward roasting method is reliable for home cooks seeking to cook turkey thighs without complicated marinades or brines, relying on butter and seasoning for moisture and taste. Checking for the internal temperature reaching 170°F confirms safe cooking and optimal doneness.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 turkey thighs , 1-pound each, bone in and skin on
  • 1/4 cup butter softened
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt *
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper coarse ground

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
  3. Lift the turkey skin and stuff it with the softened butter, then pat it down in an even layer (gently).
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Place the thighs in the baking pan.
  6. Roast the turkey thighs for 50-60 minutes or until the thermometer shows the turkey is cooked to 170 degrees.

Notes

  • Try variations by adding herbs or spices to the butter for added flavor beneath the skin.
  • Pat the turkey dry before handling to ensure the butter sticks well under the skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to verify the turkey thighs reach 170°F internally for safe consumption.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 458kcal (23%) Carbohydrates 0.2g (0%) Protein 43g (86%) Fat 31g (48%) Saturated Fat 13g (65%) Polyunsaturated Fat 6g (35%) Monounsaturated Fat 9g (45%) Trans Fat 0.5g (25%) Cholesterol 171mg (57%) Sodium 1664mg (69%) Potassium 553mg (12%) Fiber 0.1g (0%) Sugar 0.01g (0%) Vitamin A 356IU (7%) Calcium 23mg (2%) Iron 3mg (17%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4Servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 458 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 458kcal 23%
Carbohydrates 0.2g 0%
Protein 43g 86%
Fat 31g 48%
Saturated Fat 13g 65%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6g 35%
Monounsaturated Fat 9g 45%
Trans Fat 0.5g 25%
Cholesterol 171mg 57%
Sodium 1664mg 69%
Potassium 553mg 12%
Fiber 0.1g 0%
Sugar 0.01g 0%
Vitamin A 356IU 7%
Calcium 23mg 2%
Iron 3mg 17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.8

87 reviews
Excellent

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