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.

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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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