How to Cook a Juicy, Flavorful Turkey in a Big Easy Fryer

Cooking a perfect turkey for Thanksgiving or any special occasion can seem daunting. But with the Char-Broil Big Easy oil-less turkey fryer, you’re guaranteed moist, tender, and delicious results every time

The Big Easy allows you to enjoy fried turkey flavor without the oil Its infrared cooking technology thoroughly cooks the turkey from the inside out for unbeatable juiciness

Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to cook the best turkey of your life in the Big Easy.

Overview of the Big Easy Fryer

The Big Easy is a revolutionary outdoor cooker that gives you crispy, fried turkey texture without oil. It uses advanced infrared technology to thoroughly cook food evenly.

Here are the key features of the Big Easy:

• Infrared cooking: Penetrates meat to cook from inside out.
• Large cooking chamber: Holds up to 16 lb turkey.
• Roasting/frying basket: Lowers turkey into cooker.
• TRU-Infrared technology: No hot spots or burnt edges.
• Oil-less operation: No oil mess to deal with.
• Simple controls: Just turn on and set timer.

The infrared heat creates the signature texture of deep fried turkey. But unlike frying, it requires minimal oil and oversight during cooking.

Step-By-Step Guide to Big Easy Turkey

Follow these simple steps for perfect turkey every time:

1. Thaw the Turkey

Only cook fully thawed turkey in the Big Easy. Keep the turkey in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours to safely thaw. Do not thaw at room temperature.

2. Dry the Turkey

Once thawed, remove turkey from packaging and rinse inside and out with cool water. Pat the turkey completely dry with paper towels.

3. Apply Oil and Seasonings

Lightly coat the turkey all over with cooking oil. This helps promote browning and crispy skin.

Generously season the interior cavity and outer skin with salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, fresh herbs, or other favorite flavors.

4. Insert Pop-Up Timer

To easily check doneness, insert a pop-up turkey timer into the thickest part of the breast.

5. Place Turkey in Basket

Carefully lower the turkey into the cooking basket breast-side up. The legs should face the bottom of the basket.

6. Lower Basket into Fryer

Gently lower the basket with turkey into the Big Easy chamber.

7. Set Cook Time

For fresh turkey, cook 10 minutes per pound. For frozen turkey, allow 15 minutes per pound.

So a 12 lb fresh turkey takes about 120 minutes. A frozen 14 lb turkey takes 210 minutes.

8. Cook Turkey

Turn on the Big Easy to full power. No preheating is required. The turkey will cook evenly without monitoring.

9. Check for Doneness

Begin checking turkey internal temp about 30 minutes before estimated finish time. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of breast and thigh.

Turkey is done when it reaches 165°F in multiple spots. If using pop-up timer, it will pop when finished.

10. Remove Turkey from Fryer

Carefully lift basket from fryer once turkey is fully cooked. Let it rest 15+ minutes before carving for maximum juiciness.

11. Carve and Serve

Carve turkey into slices. Serve immediately for the juiciest results. Enjoy your delicious Big Easy fried turkey!

Big Easy Turkey Cooking Tips

Here are some top tips for Big Easy turkey success:

• Cook at full power only. Do not use lower settings.
• Cook breast-side up to prevent uneven cooking.
• Use a cooking bag for self-basting.
• Brine turkey for extra moisture and flavor.
• Check temp in multiple spots to confirm doneness.
• Let turkey rest 15+ minutes before slicing.
• Use hinged basket for easier placement.
• Completely thaw frozen turkey before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common Big Easy turkey questions:

How long per pound should I cook turkey?

Cook 10 minutes per pound for fresh turkey. Allow 15 minutes per pound for frozen.

What temperature should turkey reach?

Cook until it hits 165°F in the breast and thigh areas. Check multiple locations.

Should I brine the turkey?

Brining ensures a super juicy, flavorful bird. It’s highly recommended.

What size turkey fits in the Big Easy?

The Big Easy can accommodate up to a 16 lb turkey. Larger turkeys may not fit properly.

Should I stuff the turkey cavity?

No, do not stuff the turkey before cooking in the Big Easy. Cook stuffing separately.

Can I prep turkey the night before?

Yes, you can dry brine or apply rubs/marinades a day in advance. Keep turkey refrigerated.

How long does it take to preheat the Big Easy?

The Big Easy requires no preheating. Just turn it on and start cooking right away.

Get Big Easy Turkey Right Every Time

The Char-Broil Big Easy takes the guesswork and stress out of cooking delicious fried turkey. Thanks to TRU-infrared technology, your turkey comes out perfectly moist and tender every time with minimal effort.

Follow this complete Big Easy turkey cooking guide for incredible results at your next Thanksgiving, holiday feast, or anytime you get a craving for juicy fried bird. From thawing to carving, you’ll learn how to master the Big Easy for mouthwatering fried turkey flavor.