turkey thigh

Turkey Thigh

Turkey thigh, a flavorful and budget-friendly cut of poultry, is a dark meat option that's known for its rich, savory taste. Unlike turkey breast, the thigh boasts a higher fat content, resulting in a more tender and moist texture when cooked properly. It typically has a deep reddish-brown color and is available bone-in or boneless. Many home cooks and professional chefs prefer turkey thighs for braising, roasting, and grilling, thanks to their ability to stand up to longer cooking times without drying out. Finding high-quality turkey thighs is easy at most grocery stores and butcher shops offering fresh or frozen options.

Common Uses

  • Braised turkey thighs deliver ultimate tenderness: Slow braising transforms tough turkey thighs into incredibly tender and flavorful dishes. Consider braising with wine, herbs, and vegetables for a hearty stew or pot roast.
  • Roasted turkey thighs offer a crispy skin and juicy meat: Roasting turkey thighs at a moderate temperature ensures even cooking and crispy skin, making them an excellent alternative to roasting a whole turkey.
  • Grilled turkey thighs are perfect for barbecue season: Marinating turkey thighs before grilling adds flavor and helps keep them moist. Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
  • Turkey thigh meat is great for flavorful stews and soups: Dice or shred cooked turkey thigh meat to add a rich and savory element to soups, stews, and chili.
  • Ground turkey thigh makes burgers and meatballs more juicy: Grind turkey thighs to create a more flavorful and moist ground turkey option for burgers, meatballs, or meatloaf compared to using lean ground turkey breast.
  • Use in turkey pot pie for depth of flavor: Cooked turkey thigh meat adds a deeper, richer flavor to homemade turkey pot pie fillings compared to using white meat.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

174.0kcal (8.7%)

Protein

25.6g (51.2%)

Carbs

0.0g

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

4.9g

Unhealthy Fat

2.2g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Excellent source of lean protein, crucial for muscle building and repair.
  • Rich in B vitamins, including niacin and B6, supporting energy metabolism and nervous system function.
  • Provides essential minerals like iron and zinc, vital for immune function and red blood cell production.
  • Contains selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect against cell damage and supports thyroid health.
  • Lower in fat compared to turkey legs, making it a healthier option for weight management.
  • Offers a good source of phosphorus, important for bone health and energy production.

Storage Tips

Fresh turkey thighs should be refrigerated immediately. Store them in their original packaging or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer bag to prevent drying out and cross-contamination. Use within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. For longer storage, freeze turkey thighs, ensuring they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Frozen turkey can be stored for several months; thaw in the refrigerator before cooking. Cooked turkey thighs should also be refrigerated promptly and consumed within 3-4 days.

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