Place the turkey on a tray or shallow pan to catch any dripping juices during thawing.
Store the turkey at the bottom or near the bottom of your refrigerator to prevent any potential contamination of food below.
Allow approximately 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of frozen turkey to fully thaw.
Water Method:
Keep the turkey in its original wrapping.
Find a bucket or storage container large enough so the turkey fits and will be completely covered with the water.
If your turkey is small enough, and you have a deep enough sink, you might be able to do it in the kitchen sink. But you need to make sure the entire turkey is submerged. Keep in mind, you may need your sink for other preparations.
I use a large storage container and place it in the shower stall of our downstairs bathroom.
Fill the container with cold water.
Add the turkey. Most likely you are going to need to place something on top of the turkey to keep it fully submerged under the water...because turkey's float! A large baking tray helps tremendously. Just make sure you put some water on top of the tray to keep it weighted down. Or you can place a few cans of soup on top as well.
Change the water every 30 minutes. I always set a timer on my phone to help remind me. Preparing for Thanksgiving can be extremely time-consuming and you don't want to forget to change the water.
You need to make sure the water stays cold. Use a Digital Meat Thermometer to make sure the water is at 40 degrees. You may need to add ice to get the water that cold as well.
Notes
The recommended method is refrigerator thawing, as it allows for gradual thawing at a safe temperature. However, cold water thawing works just as well.You should never thaw a turkey using hot water, the microwave or leaving it out on the counter. They all pose a significant risk of salmonella contamination.You will need 24 hours of defrosting time for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey:
4 to 12 pound turkey - place the turkey in the refrigerator the Monday before Thanksgiving.
12 to 16 pound turkey - place in the refrigerator the Sunday before Thanksgiving.
16 to 20 pound turkey - place in the refrigerator the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
20 to 24 pound turkey - place in the refrigerator the Friday before Thanksgiving.