Best 2 Cider Marinated Turkey Recipes

If you are looking for a flavorful and juicy Thanksgiving turkey, cider marinated turkey is the way to go. The cider marinade helps to keep the turkey moist and tender, while also infusing it with a delicious apple flavor. Plus, it's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy cooks. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will help you create a delicious cider marinated turkey that will be the star of your Thanksgiving feast.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

CIDER MARINATED TURKEY BREAST

Cider Marinated Turkey Breast image

I came up with this marinade from several different recipes. The brine gives the turkey a great flavor and it always comes out moist and yummy. You could also use a whole turkey as well. Whenever I make it I always get requests for the recipe. It even passed the "Mom test"; she says it's better than hers.

Provided by Kady3782

Categories Turkey Breasts

Time 1h50m

Yield 1 turkey breast, 12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

8 cups unsweetened apple juice
1/2 cup kosher salt
2 bay leaves
4 sprigs fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 sprigs fresh sage or 1 tablespoon dried sage
8 whole cloves
6 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1 1/2 quarts cold water
1 medium orange, quartered
5 lbs turkey breast
cooking spray

Steps:

In a large stockpot, or 2 gallon freezer bag, combine the apple juice through the water.
Squeeze the juice from the orange quarters and add to the brine.
Stir to combine.
Add the turkey, making sure it is completely submerged in the brine.
Refrigerate for 8-10 hours.
Drain and discard marinade.
Rinse turkey under cold water and pat dry.
Place turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan.
Spray the breast with cooking spray to promote browning.
Bake, uncovered, at 325 degrees for about 1 1/2 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 165 degrees.
Let rest 15 minutes before carving.

CIDER MARINATED TURKEY

Cider Marinated Turkey image

Make Thanksgiving dinner memorable by serving this golden-brown turkey from our Test Kitchen. Marinated in apple cider, kosher salt and spices, the turkey can be grilled or roasted.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 2h20m

Yield 12 servings plus leftovers.

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

8 cups apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
1/2 cup kosher salt
2 bay leaves
2 sprigs fresh thyme
8 whole cloves
5 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon whole allspice, crushed
2 medium navel oranges, quartered
3 quarts cold water
1 turkey (12 pounds)
1 medium onion, quartered
2 medium carrots, halved and quartered
2 sprigs fresh sage or 1 tablespoon rubbed sage
1 tablespoon canola oil

Steps:

In a large stockpot, combine the cider and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir until salt is dissolved. Stir in oranges. Remove from the heat. Add water; cool to room temperature., Remove giblets from turkey; discard. Place a turkey-size oven roasting bag inside a second roasting bag; add turkey. Place in a roasting pan. Carefully pour cooled marinade into bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible; seal bag and turn to coat. Refrigerate for 12-14 hours; turn several times., Drain and discard marinade. Rinse turkey under cold water; pat dry. Place onion, carrots and sage in cavity. Rub oil over skin. Skewer turkey openings; tie drumsticks together., Using long-handled tongs, moisten a paper towel with cooking oil and lightly coat the grill rack. Prepare grill for indirect heat, using a drip pan. Place turkey over drip pan; grill, covered, over indirect medium heat for 2 to 3 hours or until a thermometer reads 180°, tenting turkey with foil after about 1 hour. Cover and let stand 20 minutes before carving., If desired, thicken pan juices for gravy. Remove and discard skin and vegetables in cavity before carving turkey. Serve with gravy. ,

Nutrition Facts :

Tips:

Choose a fresh, high-quality turkey: A fresh, free-range turkey will yield the best flavor and texture.
Brine the turkey for at least 12 hours: This will help to keep the turkey moist and juicy during cooking.
Use a flavorful marinade: The marinade will help to infuse the turkey with flavor. Experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and liquids to find a marinade that you enjoy.
Roast the turkey at a low temperature: This will help to prevent the turkey from drying out.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature: The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the breast.
Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving: This will help to redistribute the juices throughout the turkey, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Conclusion:

Cider-marinated turkey is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion. By following these tips, you can ensure that your turkey turns out perfectly cooked and juicy. So, gather your friends and family, and enjoy a delicious cider-marinated turkey dinner!