Turkey Marinade Recipe

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Last Updated on March 20, 2025 by Toya

Looking to make your turkey tender, flavorful, and utterly irresistible? A good marinade is what you need! Here’s a recipe that’s perfect for a whole turkey, and ensures every bite is juicy and packed with flavor. Plus, it made using easy-find-ingredients are are likely in your kitchen right now!

Ingredients:

  • Juice of 2 oranges
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 3 sprigs of rosemary
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 4 cloves of crushed garlic (remove after marinating)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together all the ingredients.
  2. Clean and pat dry your whole turkey. Make sure to remove any giblets from the cavity.
  3. Place the turkey in a large resealable plastic bag or a brining bag. Pour the marinade over the turkey, making sure it’s well-coated. If using a brining bag, you can massage the marinade into the turkey to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
  4. Seal the bag or cover the container with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Marinate the turkey for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor. Be sure to turn the turkey occasionally to ensure even marination.
  5. Before cooking, remove the turkey from the marinade and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry with paper towels to help achieve a crispy skin during roasting.
  6. Preheat your oven according to your turkey recipe. Roast the turkey as directed, basting occasionally with the pan juices for extra flavor and moisture.
  7. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes after roasting before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more succulent.

Tips for Success:

  • Marinate Properly: If you’re marinating a large turkey, use a brining bag or a large container to ensure it’s fully submerged in the marinade. If you don’t have enough space, you might need to flip the turkey a few times to ensure even marination.
  • Don’t Overdo It: While marinating for up to 24 hours is great for flavor, don’t exceed this time as the texture of the meat can start to change.
  • Safety First: Always marinate in the refrigerator, not on the counter, to prevent bacterial growth.

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