How Long to Defrost Turkey: The Complete UK Guide

Christmas dinner is stressful enough without a frozen turkey staring you down from the freezer. Defrosting turkey is often the first (and trickiest) step to making a tasty, safe Christmas meal the whole family can enjoy. But with the right plan to defrost turkey, you’ll soon have your bird ready for the oven, not just acting as a makeshift ice pack.

In this guide, we’ll take you through safe, simple steps for defrosting turkey, giving clear answers to the big questions like “how long does it take to thaw turkey?” and sharing the safest methods for defrosting. We’ll keep it practical, friendly, and above all, easy to follow.

Why Does Defrosting Turkey Properly Matter?

You might think plonking your turkey out on the counter will do the trick, but that’s just inviting the sort of festive guests you don’t want… nasty bacteria. Raw turkey left at room temperature above 4°C and up to 60°C slips into what’s called the ‘danger zone.’ Here, germs like Salmonella can multiply quickly. Nobody wants food poisoning for Christmas!

Roasting the turkey through to an internal temperature of at least 74°C kills bacteria, but it won’t remove toxins already made by germs in meat defrosted the wrong way. That’s why following safe methods for defrosting turkey is so important, not just for health, but so you end up with a juicy, evenly cooked centrepiece.

Method 1: Defrost Turkey in the Fridge (The Safest Way)

If you’ve got time on your side, the fridge is the safest and most reliable place to defrost turkey. It will keep your bird at a safe temperature, well away from that danger zone.

Step-by-step: How to Defrost Turkey in the Fridge

1. Work Out the Timing: Allow about 24 hours in the fridge for every 2kg (about 4.4lbs) of turkey. This means a big bird might take several days to fully defrost. It’s always safer to give yourself a little extra time.
2. Keep it Wrapped: Leave the turkey in its original wrapper if it’s leak-proof. Put it, breast side up, in a tray or roasting tin, this will catch any juices so you don’t end up cleaning turkey drippings off your veg or cheese.
3. Bottom Shelf is Best: Always place your turkey on the lowest shelf in the fridge. This helps stop raw juices from dripping onto anything else and spreading germs.
4. Let it Rest: There’s nothing more to do! Don’t poke, prod, or unwrap the turkey, just let it thaw safely.

How Long to Defrost a Turkey in the Fridge?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Up to 4kg (about 9lbs): Allow at least 2 days
• 4–6kg (about 9–13lbs): 2–3 days
• 6–8kg (about 13–18lbs): 3–4 days
• 8–10kg (about 18–22lbs): 4–5 days

When in doubt, start a bit earlier. Once thawed, turkey can sit, covered, in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.

Method 2: Defrosting Turkey in Cold Water (The Quicker Way)

Pressed for time? Cold water thawing is faster but needs a bit more effort. It’s still safe as long as you’re careful!

Step-by-step: Defrost Turkey in Cold Water

1. Seal Properly: Keep your turkey in a watertight bag. If its original wrapper has any holes, transfer it to a sturdy freezer bag. You don’t want water getting in and making the turkey mushy, and you don’t want germs in your sink.
2. Find a Soaking Spot: Pop the turkey (in its waterproof bag) into your kitchen sink or a clean washing-up bowl. Fill with cold tap water so the turkey is fully covered. You might need to weigh it down with a plate.
3. Cold Water Only: Never use warm or hot water! It can push the outside of your turkey into the danger zone, while the inside is still frozen.
4. Change Water Often: Swap the water out every 30 minutes. This keeps it cold and helps the turkey thaw much faster.
5. Cook Right Away: After defrosting in cold water, you must cook the turkey immediately.

How Long Does it Take to Defrost Turkey in Cold Water?

Allow around 30 minutes per kg (about 15 minutes per pound) to defrost turkey in cold water:

• 4kg (about 9lbs): 2 hours
• 6kg (about 13lbs): 3 hours
• 8kg (about 18lbs): 4 hours
• 10kg (about 22lbs): 5 hours

Big birds may need longer.

Method 3: Microwave Thawing (For Emergencies Only)

I don’t recommend this for a whole turkey (unless you have a microwave the size of a small shed!), but it may work to defrost turkey breast joints or cuts. Microwave thawing is quick, but it comes with a warning: parts may start cooking before others have thawed, so only use it if you’re desperate.

Step-by-step: How to Defrost Turkey in the Microwave

1. Check Size and Manual: Make sure your turkey fits your microwave! Look at your microwave’s instructions for guidance on settings and times.
2. Remove Packaging: Take off all packaging, including strings, then pop the turkey in a microwave-safe dish.
3. Defrost Setting: Use your defrost function (or about 30% power). Enter the right weight if your microwave asks.
4. Turn and Check: Stop the microwave every few minutes and turn or flip your turkey so it thaws evenly.
5. Cook Straightaway: Once finished, get cooking! The bits that have started to warm up are not safe to store uncooked.

How Long to Defrost Turkey in the Microwave?

Check your manual, but as a guide, allow about 10–15 minutes per kg (4.5–7 minutes per pound), flipping regularly.

Thawing Mistakes to Avoid

• Never thaw turkey at room temperature. Leaving it on the counter all day is a germ’s idea of a Christmas party, don’t do it!
• No hot water. This cooks the outside but leaves the inside icy (the world’s worst turkey surprise).
• Don’t rush it! If you underestimate thawing time, you might scramble for quick fixes. Unsafe methods can make your guests ill (not the memory you want to create).

Your Turkey Defrosting Questions Answered

How do I check if my turkey is properly thawed?
Gently prod the thickest part, it should feel soft. If you can reach into the cavity and there’s no ice or icy spots, you’re good to go. The legs and wings should move easily.

Can you refreeze a turkey that’s defrosted?
Yes, but only if you thawed it in the fridge. Anything thawed in cold water or the microwave must be cooked before refreezing.

What if my turkey is still a bit frozen?
You can finish defrosting using the cold water method, as long as you cook it right away. Cooking a partially frozen turkey will take longer (add at least 50% to the cooking time), and check with a meat thermometer at the thickest point.

Should I wash my turkey before cooking?
No need! Washing only spreads germs around your kitchen. Pat it dry with some kitchen roll and get seasoning.

Food Safety Reminders

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after touching raw turkey.
• Keep it separate: Use different boards and knives for meat and veg.
• Clean up: Sanitise all kitchen surfaces and tools after dealing with raw turkey.

Now you know how long to defrost turkey, and you’re ready for a worry-free Christmas roast. Planning ahead and using a safe thawing method means your family’s in for a tasty meal and you can relax (well, at least until it’s time for the sprouts).

Which method do you use to defrost turkey? Let me know in the comments below and if you have used one of my tips to defrost turkey then I hope you have a lovely Christmas!

If you found this helpful please share!