Is Thyme Good on Turkey? How to Use This Classic Herb for Flavorful Feasts

I usually follow my Dad’s recipe for roasted turkey but this year I decided to wing it (no pun intended). Since it was only going to be the four of us, I bought a small 9 lb turkey. I sprinkled it with some seasonings and stuffed it with celery, onion, garlic, fresh thyme, fresh sage, and an orange. I basted it every 30-40 minutes until it was done. I didn’t put the exact measurements of spices down because I simply sprinkled them all over the entire bird (sorry). I usually spread seasonings and butter directly on the breast, under the skin, but decided to make it a little less fattening this year. It was still really moist and tender and had outstanding flavor.

With the holidays coming up, many cooks are getting ready to prepare the centerpiece of festive meals – a beautifully roasted turkey. When seasoning this delicious yet mild-tasting meat, herbs are a cook’s best friend for adding tons of flavor. One herb that is a perfect match for turkey is thyme. But is thyme really good on turkey? Let’s find out.

Thyme is one of the most classic herb pairings with turkey and other poultry. Its woodsy, subtle flavor enhances the turkey without overpowering it. The use of thyme with turkey goes way back – it was likely used for seasoning by ancient Romans and Greeks. And for good reason – it just works!

If you want to make sure your holiday turkey tastes amazing, thyme can help make that happen. Keep reading to learn why thyme and turkey are such a great match, and easy ways to use thyme for incredible turkey flavor.

Why Thyme Goes So Well with Turkey

There are a few key reasons why thyme is an ideal pairing for turkey:

Subtle, earthy flavor – Thyme has a delicate, slightly lemony, minty taste. This lets the herb complement turkey without masking its flavor.
Aromatic – When heated, thyme releases a lovely, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. This scent builds anticipation for the delicious meal ahead!
Enhances other flavors – Thyme brings out the flavors of other herbs spices citrus, garlic, onions and more that are also commonly paired with turkey.
Dries well – Thyme retains its flavor nicely when dried, making it easy to use any time of year, not just when fresh.
Versatile – Thyme can be used in the stuffing, gravy, rubbed under the skin, placed inside the cavity – giving you lots of options.

So thyme has just the right combination of aroma, taste and versatility to be a turkey’s best friend at the holiday table.

How to Use Fresh vs. Dried Thyme

One of the great things about thyme is that it can be used either fresh or dried with delicious results. Here are some tips on using each type:

Fresh thyme – To release the most flavor from fresh thyme, strip the tiny leaves from the woody stems before chopping finely. Add it at the end of cooking.

Dried thyme – Due to drying, the flavor is more concentrated so you need less. It can go in rubs, under the skin, or in the cavity.

Lemon thyme – This thyme variety has a lovely citrus flavor. Use it the same as regular thyme or combine with lemon zest.

Thyme sprigs – Place fresh sprigs inside the turkey cavity or scatter over the roasting pan.

Either fresh or dried thyme will infuse the turkey with scrumptious flavor. Having both on hand gives you flexibility in preparing your holiday centerpiece.

Quick and Easy Ways to Use Thyme for Turkey

Here are some simple methods for using thyme to spice up your turkey:

Under the skin – Gently loosen the skin and spread softened butter mixed with chopped thyme underneath.
Herb rub – Blend dried thyme with salt, pepper, oil, garlic, onion and other dried herbs to coat the turkey skin.
Stuffing ingredient – Add 2-3 tsp chopped fresh or 1-2 tsp. dried thyme to your favorite stuffing recipe.
Turkey cavity – Place thyme sprigs inside the empty cavity along with lemon slices, garlic and onion.
Gravy flavor – Simmer fresh or dried thyme in turkey drippings when preparing gravy.
Compound butter – Blend fresh thyme into softened butter then chill into a log to slice over turkey.

With these quick thyme seasoning tips, you’ll enjoy tender, juicy turkey with no shortage of flavor!

Delicious Thyme Turkey Recipes to Try

To get the most out of thyme’s enchanting flavor, here are some tasty recipe ideas using this herb:

Thyme Roasted Turkey – A holiday classic! The turkey is coated in garlic powder, thyme, paprika and pepper.
Roast Turkey with Rosemary and Thyme – Rosemary complements the thyme beautifully in this recipe. Lemons and onions add extra flavor too.
Herb Roasted Turkey Breast – For a smaller meal, try this tasty roast seasoned with thyme, rosemary and sage.
Thyme Turkey Burgers – For a twist, make juicy turkey burgers using thyme and other herbs.

With its delicate yet delightful flavor, thyme is sure to be a winner at your holiday table. Use it generously in your next turkey recipe!

Turkey Safety Reminders

When cooking turkey, following food safety guidelines helps prevent foodborne illness:

Thaw frozen turkey safely in the fridge, cold water, or microwave. Don’t thaw at room temperature.
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the thigh reaches 165°F minimum.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, using shallow containers to chill quickly.
Reheat leftovers thoroughly to 165°F. Discard any turkey after 3-4 days.

So is thyme good on turkey? Absolutely! With its wonderful flavor, thyme is a perfect match for turkey. Use it generously along with other herbs and seasonings for your best holiday turkey yet. Follow safe handling tips and enjoy thyme-infused turkey all season long.

is thyme good on turkey

Roasted Turkey with Thyme and Sage:

Ingredients:

1 (9 lb) turkey
1 yellow onion
10 cloves of garlic
3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme
3-4 fresh sage leaves
2 stalks of celery
1 orange, sliced in half
Olive oil
Sea salt
Fresh cracked black pepper
Dried ground sage
Dried thyme
Garlic powder
Onion powder

How to Make a Roasted Turkey with Thyme and Sage

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Remove the turkey neck from the cavity and the giblet bag from the neck. Rinse the bird with cold water, inside and out, and dry very well.

Rub olive oil all over the bird. Season the bottom side of the turkey with all seasonings.

Place the turkey breast side up on a roasting tray in a roasting pan. Season the inside of the cavity with all seasonings and place half the onion, 8 cloves of garlic, fresh thyme, fresh sage, celery, and orange halves in the cavity.

Place the other half of the onion and 2 cloves of garlic in the neck area. Season the top of the turkey with all of the seasonings.

Place the meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh and place it in the oven.

Roast for about 3 hours or until the thermometer reads 180 degrees, basting every 30-40 minutes. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Enjoy.

is thyme good on turkey

Hi, Im Pam. The recipes you’ll find here are family-friendly, simple, and range from healthy to decadent. I hope you find a recipe or two that your family will enjoy.

EASY THYME INFUSED ROASTED THANKSGIVING TURKEY

FAQ

What is thyme best used for?

Thyme is typically used in savory dishes like braised or roasted meat, vegetables, or fish, as well as in savory baking. It can also be used to add flavor and depth to marinades, soups and stocks, cocktail elements, and teas.

How to season a turkey the best?

Stick with salt and pepper, put herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage to work, or take spicy Cajun seasoning for a spin for some kick. Whatever blend you choose, spread it all over the turkey—on top, underneath, between the body and wings and legs, under the skin, and even in the cavity of the bird.

What meat is thyme good for?

Thyme. When it comes to herbs that pair fantastically with beef, thyme is a classic. Whether used fresh or dry, thyme rounds out the flavours and adds a touch of depth to beef dishes of all sorts, including stews and casseroles. Thyme also tastes great as a rub or herb crust on steak or roast beef.

What are the best aromatics to put in a turkey?

For example, apples, carrots, onions, rosemary sprigs, thyme, sage, and bay leaves. First, place the quartered or chopped fruits and vegetables with the herbs in a shallow sauce pan or skillet. Bring to a soft boil with some water to open up the aromas. Then, place the aromatics in the cavity of the turkey.