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.