how long to cook turkey in big easy
For a whole turkey in a Char‑Broil Big Easy (oil‑less fryer), the general guideline is about 10 minutes per pound , but you must cook to temperature, not time : the turkey is done when the breast reaches 165°F and the thighs/legs are 175–180°F.
Basic timing rule
- Plan on roughly 10 minutes per pound of turkey in the Big Easy under normal weather conditions.
- Example estimates (actual time can be shorter or longer):
- 10 lb turkey → about 1 hour 40 minutes
- 12 lb turkey → about 2 hours
- 15–16 lb turkey → around 2.5–2.75 hours
Internal temperature targets
- The true “done” point is when:
- Breast: 165°F in the thickest part, not touching bone.
- Thigh/leg: 175–180°F for best texture and safety.
- Always check in multiple spots with an instant‑read thermometer to avoid undercooked sections.
Big Easy specific tips
- The Big Easy is designed for turkeys up to about 16 lb ; larger birds may not fit or cook evenly.
- Place the turkey breast up, legs down in the basket so it cooks evenly and is easy to temp.
- Use the mesh lid mainly in cold or windy weather or near the end for extra browning, since it can speed up cooking.
Weather and bird factors
- Cold, wind, or very large birds can add noticeable time beyond the 10‑min‑per‑pound rule.
- Injecting or brining is fine; just avoid very sugary rubs that can burn at the Big Easy’s high heat.
Quick step‑by‑step
- Thaw turkey completely; remove giblets and any leg ties.
- Pat dry, lightly oil the skin, and season (no high‑sugar rubs).
- Preheat the Big Easy, then lower the turkey into the basket breast‑up.
- Cook, estimating ~10 minutes per pound, but start checking temps early.
- When breast hits 165°F and thighs 175–180°F, remove and rest 10–20 minutes before carving.
If you share your turkey’s weight and outside temperature (roughly), a more tailored time estimate can be suggested—but always use the thermometer as the final judge.