Ask anyone who has tried a deep-fried turkey, and they’ll attest that it’s an absolute game-changer. This probably leaves you wondering how exactly to deep fry a turkey so that you can experience the unmatched crispy skin and super juicy meat of a deep-fried bird, all with the convenience of the reduced time it takes to cook one in comparison to a turkey that has been smoked or roasted.
All of the benefits of a deep-fried turkey can be attributed to the oil’s superior heat conduction and the fact that the oil completely surrounds and penetrates the bird. So, whereas a roasted turkey cooks from the outside in, increasing the likelihood that the exterior layers dry out during the time it takes the interior to reach the perfect temperature of 160ºF, a deep-fried turkey cooks evenly through all layers of the bird.
If there’s one rub to deep-frying a turkey, it’s the safety considerations. The internet is full of videos of turkey frys gone awry, so safety is a valid concern and something that should be taken very seriously. But with simple safeguards like ensuring that the fryer is on a level, steady surface, making sure the turkey is properly thawed, and reducing moisture on the turkey’s surface, it’s easy to fry a turkey safely.
“One of the reasons people are a little intimidated by frying a turkey is the safety factor, which I totally get,” says ATBBQ Staff Chef Tom Jackson in his Smoked Fried Turkey video. “But I can tell you that the dryer a bird is, the safer it is to fry it, and the better your skin is going to turn out. So it’s a win-win situation.”
Equipment and Ingredients Needed to Deep Fry a Whole Turkey
In terms of ingredients, there is little difference between what you’ll need for a roasted or smoked turkey versus one that’s deep-fried. Opt for a whole turkey between 12 and 13 lbs, along with your favorite seasonings and marinades. One of the easiest solutions for the latter is to pick up a handy turkey kit that takes all of the guesswork out of blending flavors.
The one ingredient that differs from most turkey recipes is oil. We highly recommend peanut oil for frying due to its high smoke point. It’s also more stable than many other oils, so it holds up better under high heat. Canola oil and safflower oil are also good options with high smoke points.
Equipment for Deep Frying a Turkey
Bayou Classic 30qt Aluminum Turkey Fryer Kit
This all-in-one kit is perfect for frying turkey. The 30-quart aluminum stockpot comes with a flat lid, lift hook, and rack, allowing for smooth transfers in and out of the oil. It features patented self-supporting legs and high-temp black paint on the frame, which offers both durability and stability as it operates at 32,500 BTU/hour.
An alternative to a fryer kit would be to use a standard stockpot with a propane burner like the Bayou Classic 16in Stainless Steel Bayou Cooker. Designed to accommodate stockpots ranging from 14 inches in diameter to 62 quarts in size, it serves a wide range of cooking tasks, making it a versatile addition to any outdoor cooking configuration.
All Things Barbecue Digital Thermometer
The All Things Barbecue Digital Thermometer is a solid thermometer option under $50. Its read time is under two seconds, and with an easy-to-read rotating display, automatic backlight, ergonomic handle, and versatile magnet, it is well-appointed with features that make getting an accurate reading a breeze.
Safety Gear
Guard against hot oil splashes and drips by covering up with gloves and goggles. The Yoder Smokers Long Leather BBQ Gloves not only protect your hands from heat and oil but also give you a firm grip on your tools. When working with oil and an open flame, keeping a fire extinguisher close by is always wise.
Preparation: Getting the Turkey Ready to Deep Fry
Fully Thaw Turkey
This first step is not only a matter of cooking practicality but also of safety. Submerging even a partially frozen turkey in oil can provoke a violent reaction that causes the oil to spill and start a fire. Plan a full 24 hours of refrigerator thawing for every four to five pounds to ensure the turkey has enough time to fully thaw.
Check Turkey Cavity
Some turkeys come with the giblets, neck, and packaging stuffed in the cavity. Remove all of these items so that the turkey is completely empty.
Prep Fryer Pot
To help avoid oil overflow, figure out the fill line ahead of time. First, put the turkey in the fryer and fill it with water until submerged. Make sure there is enough room in the fryer pot for oil to completely surround the bird to avoid overcrowding and uneven cooking. Then, remove the turkey, mark the water level, and use that line as your oil fill line when it’s time to set up the fryer.
Season Turkey
Brine the turkey and season it with a quality rub to enhance flavor and maximize juiciness. Some people also prefer to inject the meat with additional flavorful moisture for good measure. For detailed information on all of these steps, check out the ATBBQ holiday turkey guides on:
Thoroughly Dry Turkey
Pat the turkey dry with paper towels to minimize oil splatter. For a brined turkey, Chef Tom suggests letting it air dry in the fridge for 24 hours before frying it so that the surface moisture has plenty of time to evaporate.
Safely Set Up the Frying Station
Choose a safe outdoor location away from flammable materials like wooden decks, overhangs, or dry leaves. A flat, non-slip surface like concrete or a driveway is ideal. You can even use a heavy-duty grill mat to provide maximum stability. Once you have the fryer set up, give it a gentle nudge to make sure it doesn’t rock or sway.
Next, carefully fill the fryer with oil and heat to 350°F. Use a Bayou Classic 12" Stainless Steel Deep Fry Thermometer to monitor your oil temperature and ensure it stays in the correct range for frying. Once the oil starts to heat, always wear long, heat-resistant gloves, goggles, and a long-sleeved shirt to protect against hot oil splatters.
How To Deep Fry a Turkey
And now, for the main event. Take things slow and steady, and never leave a turkey fryer unattended.
- Once the oil has reached 350°F, turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into hot oil so that oil doesn’t splash onto an open flame. Use a fryer basket or sturdy metal hook and rod specifically designed for turkey frying to slowly lower the bird into the hot oil.
- Restart the burner, and bring the temperature back up to 350°F. Adjust the flame level as necessary to maintain this temperature throughout the frying process.
- Deep fry the turkey for about 3-4 minutes per pound.
- Avoid opening the fryer lid or moving the turkey too often, as doing so disrupts the cooking process. However, once the turkey is nearing the estimated time to cook fully, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. A turkey is ready to remove from the oil when it reaches 160°F at the thickest part of the breast and the innermost point of the thigh. Check out the ATBBQ Turkey Internal Temp Guide: What Temperature to Cook a Turkey To for more detailed information on when a turkey is done without being overcooked.
Removing, Resting, and Serving a Deep Fried Turkey
Once the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, it’s time to remove it from the oil and prepare it for everyone to enjoy.
- Turn off the burner.
- Use a fryer basket or hook to slowly and steadily raise the turkey. Hold it above the fryer for one to two minutes to allow the remaining oil to drip off.
- Place the turkey on a wire rack over a baking sheet or tray lined with paper towels to catch any additional oil. Double-check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. Check out Chef Tom’s turkey carving tutorial has everything you need to know about slicing up your bird beautifully and efficiently.
More Turkey Tips from ATBBQ
It’s always a great idea to try new things. Hopefully, you now feel more comfortable giving deep-fried turkey a run. For more pointers on how to prepare a memorable turkey dinner, be sure to subscribe to our email newsletter, where we share every new recipe video. Also, check out some of our all-time favorite turkey recipes, and take a look at our turkey kits and accessories. You’ll find plenty of insights and pointers that we’ve learned over the years and continue to use when preparing holiday meals for our families.
