Turkey Thigh (Bone-in)
Meleagris gallopavoClinical Encyclopedia
Turkey thigh with bone is a flavorful and juicy cut of meat, rich in protein and essential nutrients. It is often used in various culinary dishes and is a popular choice for roasting and grilling.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Best cooked by roasting or grilling to retain moisture and flavor. Marinating before cooking can enhance taste.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose turkey thighs that are firm to the touch with a fresh smell. Look for a pinkish color and avoid any that appear discolored or have a slimy texture.
Store raw turkey thighs in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Cooked turkey can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Myths vs Realities
MythTurkey makes you sleepy.+
MythAll turkey is dry.+
MythEating turkey skin is unhealthy.+
Healthy Recipes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Thigh with Quinoa Salad
Succulent herb-roasted turkey thighs paired with a refreshing quinoa salad make for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Rub the turkey thighs with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then place them in a roasting pan.
- 3. Roast for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Meanwhile, cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions and mix with tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
Spicy Turkey Thigh Tacos with Avocado Salsa
These spicy turkey thigh tacos topped with a zesty avocado salsa are a fun and healthy twist on traditional tacos.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Cilantro for garnish
- 1. Rub the turkey thighs with taco seasoning and grill or bake until cooked through.
- 2. Shred the meat and warm the corn tortillas.
- 3. Top the tortillas with shredded turkey, avocado, tomatoes, onion, lime juice, and cilantro.
Mediterranean Stuffed Turkey Thighs
Bone-in turkey thighs stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Mix spinach, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- 3. Carefully stuff the mixture into the turkey thighs, secure with toothpicks, and bake for 1 hour.
Citrus Glazed Turkey Thighs with Steamed Broccoli
These citrus-glazed turkey thighs are bursting with flavor and served alongside vibrant steamed broccoli for a healthy meal.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2. Mix orange juice, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, then brush over the turkey thighs.
- 3. Bake for 45 minutes, basting occasionally, and steam broccoli until tender.
Garlic and Lemon Turkey Thighs with Roasted Vegetables
Garlic and lemon-infused turkey thighs served with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables for a wholesome dinner.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Combine garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and rub over the turkey thighs.
- 3. Place the thighs in a roasting pan with mixed vegetables and roast for 1 hour.
BBQ Turkey Thighs with Sweet Potato Mash
Tender BBQ turkey thighs served with creamy sweet potato mash create a comforting yet healthy meal.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the grill to medium heat and brush turkey thighs with BBQ sauce.
- 2. Grill for about 40 minutes, basting with more sauce.
- 3. Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
Turkey Thigh Curry with Cauliflower Rice
A fragrant turkey thigh curry served over cauliflower rice makes for a low-carb, flavorful dish.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups cauliflower rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a pot, sauté onion until translucent, then add turkey thighs and curry powder.
- 2. Pour in coconut milk, simmer until turkey is cooked through.
- 3. Serve over cauliflower rice.
Turkey Thigh Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
A quick and colorful turkey thigh stir-fry with bell peppers and a savory sauce for a healthy weeknight dinner.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Cooked brown rice for serving
- 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan, add turkey slices and cook until browned.
- 2. Add bell peppers and ginger, stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- 3. Stir in soy sauce and serve over brown rice.
Balsamic Glazed Turkey Thighs with Green Beans
Balsamic glazed turkey thighs paired with sautéed green beans create a deliciously healthy dinner option.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Mix balsamic vinegar and honey, brush over turkey thighs, and roast for 1 hour.
- 3. Sauté green beans in a pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender.
Turkey Thigh and Spinach Frittata
A protein-packed frittata featuring turkey thighs and spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.
- 2 bone-in turkey thighs, cooked and shredded
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup cheese (optional)
- 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then stir in shredded turkey and spinach.
- 3. Pour into a greased oven-safe skillet and bake for 25 minutes, adding cheese if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is turkey thigh healthier than turkey breast?
Turkey thigh is higher in fat and calories compared to turkey breast, but it is also richer in flavor and certain nutrients.
How should I cook turkey thigh?
Turkey thigh can be roasted, grilled, or braised. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I eat turkey thigh on a keto diet?
Yes, turkey thigh is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet.
What is the best way to season turkey thigh?
Marinating with herbs, spices, and citrus can enhance the flavor. Common seasonings include garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
How long does it take to cook turkey thigh?
Cooking time varies by method; roasting typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours at 350°F (175°C).
Can I freeze cooked turkey thigh?
Yes, cooked turkey thigh can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container.
What are the nutritional benefits of turkey thigh?
Turkey thigh is a great source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium and phosphorus.
Is turkey thigh dark meat?
Yes, turkey thigh is considered dark meat, which is generally richer in flavor and moisture compared to white meat.