How Long to Cook a Turkey Crown for a Perfectly Juicy Holiday Meal

Cooking a turkey crown can seem daunting, but following some simple guidelines will ensure it turns out moist and delicious every time. The cooking time depends primarily on the size of the crown, but there are some additional factors to consider as well.

Key Guidelines for Cooking Times

Here are the basic turkey crown cooking times to follow:

• Under 4kg: Calculate 20 minutes per kg, plus an additional 70 minutes
• Over 4kg: Calculate 20 minutes per kg, plus an additional 90 minutes

For common sizes:

• 1.5kg crown: 1 hour 40 minutes total time
• 2kg crown: 1 hour 50 minutes total time
• 2.5kg crown: 2 hours total time

Cook all sizes at 190C/170C fan/gas mark 5 Remember to let the cooked crown rest before carving

How Size Affects Cooking Time

The weight of the turkey crown is the primary factor that determines cooking time, A larger crown needs more time in the oven for the heat to fully penetrate and cook through the meat

The guidelines provide 20 minutes of cooking time per kilogram. This ensures even a large 5kg or 6kg crown will cook through fully without drying out.

For smaller crowns under 4kg, less additional time is needed so they don’t end up overcooking. Crowns over 4kg require a bit more time to cover the center cooking through.

Adjusting Time for Stuffing

If you plan to stuff your crown, keep in mind the stuffing adds weight. Be sure to calculate the total weight including stuffing when determining cooking time.

The extra stuffing increases the overall size and amount of meat needing to cook. Allow 20 minutes per kilogram including the stuffing weight.

Allowing Rest Time After Cooking

Once your turkey crown reaches the proper internal temperature, it needs resting time. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly for a moister texture.

Plan for the crown to rest about 20 minutes before carving if under 4kg. Larger crowns over 4kg benefit from 30 minutes up to an hour resting time.

Tent foil over the crown as it rests to keep it warm. The meat will continue to cook slightly as it rests.

Ensuring Food Safety

When dealing with poultry, proper cooking is vital to food safety. Turkey crowns should reach an internal temperature of 70°C to kill any potential bacteria.

Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the breast to check the inner temperature after the recommended cook time. The juices should also run clear when pierced with a knife or fork.

If using a probe thermometer, insert it into the center of the breast before cooking. This lets you monitor the inner temperature throughout cooking without having to open the oven.

Cook Method Guidelines

These basic turkey crown cooking times are based on using a standard oven. You can use conventional or convection settings per the times given.

If cooking your crown in an air fryer, reduce times by about 10-15 minutes since the hot air circulates for faster cooking. Meat thermometers are essential for air fryers.

Do not attempt to microwave a crown or cook from frozen. Defrost fully before cooking.

Seasoning and Prep Tips

• Pat the crown dry before seasoning to help flavors stick. Rub olive oil or butter over the skin too.

• Season generously with salt, pepper, sage, thyme, rosemary, and other favorite spices. This adds lots of flavor.

• Layer some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the roasting pan. This provides a base for pan juices.

• Tuck herb butter pats or garlic under the skin before cooking. The heat releases the flavors into the meat.

• Cover the breast with foil if it starts browning too fast while the legs cook through. Removing it toward the end helps the skin crisp.

• Baste periodically with the pan drippings to keep the meat moist and get that perfect golden brown exterior.

Essential Resting and Carving Tips

After cooking and resting your turkey crown, follow these steps for easy, beautiful carving:

• Place the crown breast side up on a sturdy cutting board. Pull the legs away from the body slightly.

• Using a sharp knife, slice vertically along one side of the breastbone. Repeat on the other side to remove the whole breast in two halves.

• Cut the breast pieces crosswise into nice even slices. Arrange slices on a platter.

• Separate the legs and slice the meat off each, cutting it into portions.

• Add any stuffing from cavities and arrange around the meat. Pour over any collected juices from the rested crown.

With the right technique, you can have tender, juicy turkey crown ready to wow your holiday guests. Just follow these timing and cooking guidelines for the perfect centerpiece.