Hey there, turkey lovers!
Looking for a cozy and delicious meal? I’ve got you covered!
Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for roast turkey thighs.
They’re juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
Perfect for a family dinner or a festive feast.
Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!
Let’s get cooking!
Ingredient Substitutions
For a healthier alternative, olive oil can replace salted butter in this recipe. Use about 1/3 cup of olive oil, which will provide a similar richness while reducing saturated fat content. Fresh herbs can substitute dried ones, enhancing flavor and nutritional value. Use 2 tablespoons each of fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley in place of their dried counterparts. For a lower-carb option, replace baby potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips. These vegetables will absorb the flavors well and provide a similar texture when roasted. Adjust cooking time as needed, as these alternatives may cook faster than potatoes. These substitutions maintain the dish’s savory profile while accommodating various dietary preferences.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 60-70 minutes |
| Total Time | 75-90 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1800-2000
- Protein: 120-135 g
- Fat: 140-150 g
- Carbohydrates: 120-130 g
Ingredients
For the herb butter:
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup salted butter (room temperature for easy mixing)
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp garlic powder (not garlic salt)
- 2 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tsp dried parsley
For the turkey:
- 4 turkey thighs (about 1.5 lbs each, bone removed)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
For the vegetables:
- 8 garlic cloves (finely minced for best flavor)
- 2 large onions (roughly chopped)
- 1 lb baby potatoes (halved or quartered if large)
- olive oil (for drizzling, I use Bertolli Extra Virgin)
Seasoning:
- black pepper
- salt
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
This ensures that it reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake, which helps achieve the perfect roast on the turkey thighs and vegetables.
Step 2: Prepare the Herb Butter
In a bowl, combine ½ cup of room temperature salted butter with 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary, 2 teaspoons of dried parsley, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Mix these ingredients well to create a flavorful herb butter mixture.
Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Season the Turkey Thighs
Pat 4 boneless turkey thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps them roast better.
Season the thighs with salt and pepper to taste.
This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the turkey.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
On a baking sheet, arrange 1 pound of baby potatoes, 2 large onions (roughly chopped), and 8 cloves of minced garlic.
Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
Step 5: Assemble and Butter the Turkey
Add the seasoned turkey thighs to the same baking sheet with the prepared vegetables.
Rub the herb butter generously over the turkey meat and under the skin to infuse it with rich flavors.
Top the turkey with the zest and juice of 1 medium lemon for a fresh, zesty contrast.
Step 6: Bake and Baste
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
About halfway through, baste the turkey with its own juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
Continue baking for another 30 minutes or until the turkey is no longer pink in the center.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer to ensure it is safely cooked.
Step 7: Serve
Once the turkey and vegetables are perfectly cooked, remove them from the oven.
Allow the turkey to rest for a few minutes before serving.
This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Enjoy your delicious turkey and roasted vegetables!
