Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be predictable. This Honey-BBQ Danksgiving Turkey brings sweet heat, crispy skin, and big holiday energy to the table. Chef for Higher’s Honey BBQ sauce does the heavy lifting, giving the bird a glossy, caramelized finish that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just upgrading your family feast, this one turns the classic turkey into a real celebration piece.
- Step 1
First thing – the day before you plan to cook the turkey, make sure to brine it! This will help keep it tender and juicy when you cook it 😉
Here are some instructions and a recipe for a simple brine you can use. - Step 2
The morning of your cook, remove the turkey from the brine, rinse, and pat dry. Discard the brine. - Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the butter and 1/2 cup Chef for Higher’s Honey BBQ sauce.
Ingredients: 1 1/2 Chef for Higher BBQ Sauce (divided), 1/2 Cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
Get the Chef for Higher’s honey needed for this recipe here. - Step 4
Using your hands, gently separate the turkey skin from the breasts and legs, making sure to keep the skin intact. - Step 5
Spread the BBQ butter mixture underneath the skin in an even layer. Season the exterior of the turkey liberally with Turkey Rub.
Turkey Rub: 2 tbsp kosher salt, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried sage, 1/2 tsp cayenne (optional) - Step 6
When ready to cook, set the oven to 400°F (200˚C) and preheat for at least 15 minutes. - Step 7
When the oven is ready, put your turkey in and roast for 30 minutes. - Step 8
Reduce the temperature to 300°F (150˚C). Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71˚C), about 3-4 hours (the temperature will continue to rise to 165°F (74°C) as the bird rests). During the last 20 minutes of cooking, glaze the bird with the remaining cup of Chef for Higher’s Honey BBQ sauce. - Step 9
Remove the turkey and let rest for 20-25 minutes before carving. Enjoy!
Explore Chef for Higher →
Pick up some Chef for Higher Honey →