Kitchen Charts

Thawing Times for Whole Turkey

8 to 12 pound turkey
    In Refrigerator: 1 to 2 days
    In Cold Water: 4 to 6 hours

12 to 16 pound turkey
    In Refrigerator: 2 to 3 days
    In Cold Water: 6 to 9 hours

16 to 20 pound turkey
    In Refrigerator: 3 to 4 days
    In Cold Water: 9 to 11 hours

20 to 24 pound turkey
    In Refrigerator: 4 to 5 days
    In Cold Water: 11 to 12 hours

NOTE: If the cold water method is used, change water every 30 minutes. After thawing for either method, remove neck and giblets, wash turkey inside and outside with cold water, and drain well. Wash hands, utensils, sink, counter, and anything else that touches raw turkey with hot, soapy water.