How to Cook a Turkey In a Pressure Cooker(2024 guide)

Preparing the turkey for cooking

Cook a Turkey In a Pressure Cooker

Recipe by Samantha TrumpCourse: LunchCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Instant Pot turkey breast is a quick and easy way to prepare a juicy and flavorful turkey. Seasoned and seared for added depth, it cooks under pressure, making it a perfect option for a hassle-free, tender meal that’s ideal for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2-3 pounds turkey breast (boneless, skinless)
  1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt
  1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 cup chicken broth
  1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

• Prepare Turkey:
  Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
• Sauté:
  Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat olive oil.
  Sear the turkey breast on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
• Deglaze Pot:
  Add chicken broth and lemon juice (if using) to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
• Cook Turkey:
  Return the turkey breast to the pot.
  Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 15 minutes on high pressure.
• Release Pressure:
  Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting.”
• Rest and Serve:
  Remove the turkey from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Recipe Video

Notes

• For extra moist turkey, let it rest after cooking and avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature (should be 165°F/74°C). Adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of chicken broth can also enhance flavor and juiciness.

Preparing the turkey for cooking Before you begin cooking your turkey in a pressure cooker/ slow cooker or in a electric pressure cooker, it’s important to properly prepare the turkey to ensure delicious and juicy results.

Here a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your turkey:

1. Thaw the turkey: If your turkey is frozen, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for a few days, depending on the size of the turkey.

This will ensure even cooking and avoid any safety issues.

2. Clean the turkey: Once thawed, remove the turkey from its packaging and rinse it under cool water.

Make sure to remove any giblets or organs that may be inside the cavity.

3. Pat dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the turkey dry.

This will help the seasonings stick to the skin and promote better browning.

4. Season the turkey: Generously season the exterior and interior of the turkey with your preferred herbs, spices, salt, and pepper.

You can opt for traditional seasonings like rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, paprika, or try your own favorite blend.

5. Truss the turkey: Trussing the turkey helps it cook more evenly and maintain its shape.

Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together and secure the wings against the body.

6. Preheat the pressure cooker: Before placing the turkey in the pressure cooker, preheat it on the saute or browning function.

This will help brown the skin and enhance the flavors.

With the turkey properly prepared, you can now move on to cooking it in the pressure cooker.

Seasoning and flavoring options

Understanding Seasoning Before we dive into the seasoning and flavor options for your turkey, let’s first understand what seasoning is? Seasoning refers to the process of adding herbs, spices, salt, and pepper to enhance the taste of the food.

It adds depth, complexity, and balance to the flavors, making your dishes more delicious.

When it comes to cooking a turkey, there are endless seasoning options to choose from. Here are some popular choices:

1. Traditional Seasonings: Classic herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and bay leaves bring a delightful aroma and earthy flavor to the turkey.

These herbs pair well with the rich taste of roasted turkey.

2. Citrus Infusion: Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and limes can add a zesty and refreshing flavor to your turkey.

Squeeze the juice over the turkey or stuff the cavity with slices for a burst of citrusy goodness.

3. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even a hint of cinnamon.

These spices lend an exciting and robust kick to the turkey.

4. Garlic and Onion: A turkey-seasoning classic, garlic and onion powder or minced garlic and onion bring a savory and aromatic element to the meat.

They can be combined with other herbs and spices for a well-rounded flavor profile.

5. Herbal Bliss: Experiment with different herb combinations like parsley, dill, tarragon, and marjoram to bring unique and fresh flavors to your turkey.

These herbs work well when mixed with olive oil and rubbed onto the bird’s skin.

Ultimately, the choice of seasoning depends on your personal preferences, so feel free to get creative and your turkey’s flavors.

Just remember to balance the seasonings in a way that complements the natural taste of the turkey.

With these seasoning options, your pressure cooker turkey will be bursting with delicious flavors that will impress your guests and make your Thanksgiving feast a memorable one.

Also Read: How To make Pulled Pork BBQ

Adding liquid to the pressure cooker

Adding liquid to the pressure cooker is an essential step in a turkey.

The liquid is necessary to create steam, which builds pressure and helps to cook the turkey evenly and quickly.

Here’s a guide on how much liquid to add to the pressure cooker:

1. Start with at least 1 cup of liquid:

Most pressure cookers require a minimum amount of liquid to build pressure.

Usually, 1 cup of liquid is sufficient, but it’s always a good idea to check your pressure cooker’s manual for specific instructions.

2. Choose your liquid:

You have various options for the liquid to use in the pressure cooker.

Broth, stock, or water are commonly used choices. Broth or stock can add additional flavor to the turkey, while water is a neutral option if you prefer the flavors of the seasonings and the meat to shine through.

3. Consider adding additional flavor:

If you want to infuse more flavor into your turkey, you can add aromatics to the liquid.

For example, you can use chicken or vegetable broth and add herbs, spices, or even citrus slices to the liquid.

This will impart a subtle yet delightful taste to the turkey.

4. Maintain a proper liquid-to-turkey ratio:

It is important to maintain a proper ratio of liquid to turkey to ensure proper cooking.

As a general rule, your liquid should not exceed the halfway mark of the pressure cooker.

This allows for the necessary steam buildup and ensures the turkey is fully submerged while cooking.

Remember, the liquid in the pressure cooker will evaporate during the cooking process, so make sure to monitor the liquid levels throughout.

If it drops too low, it can lead to uneven cooking or even scorching.

following these guidelines, you can ensure that your pressure cooker turkey is cooked to perfection with the right amount of liquid for the best results.

Setting the cooking time and pressure

Once your turkey is prepared and seasoned, it’s time to set the cooking time and pressure on the pressure cooker.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Check the manufacturer’s instructions:

Different pressure cookers may have slightly different guidelines for cooking a turkey.

It’s important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you are using the correct settings.

2. Calculate the cooking time:

As a general guideline, the cooking time for a turkey in a pressure cooker is approximately 6-8 minutes per pound.

For example, if you have a 12-pound turkey, you would cook it for about 72-96 minutes.

3. Set the pressure:

Most pressure cookers have two pressure settings – high and low.

For cooking a turkey, it’s recommended to use high pressure.

Set the pressure to high on the pressure cooker.

4. Start the cooking process:

Once you have set the cooking time and pressure, place the turkey in the pressure cooker and secure the lid.

Make sure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position.

5. Allow for natural pressure release:

After the cooking time is completed, it’s important to allow the pressure cooker to naturally release its pressure.

This usually takes around 15 minutes, but it’s best to refer to your pressure cooker’s instructions for specific time recommendations.

6. Check the internal temperature:

Before removing the turkey from the pressure cooker, make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

This ensures the turkey is safe to eat.

Once the turkey is cooked and the internal temperature is reached, carefully remove it from the pressure cooker using tongs or a large serving fork.

Remember, the cooking time and pressure may vary depending on the size and type of pressure cooker you are using. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results.

Also read: Best Way To Roast a Chicken Using pressure Cooker

Natural Release vs. Quick Release for Turkey in Pressure Cooker

Making gravy from the turkey drippings

Collecting drippings from the pressure cooker

Collecting the drippings from the pressure cooker is an essential step in making delicious to accompany your turkey.

Here’s how you can easily collect the drippings:

1. Once you have cooked the turkey in the pressure cooker, carefully remove it from the cooker and transfer it to a carving board.

Allow the turkey to rest for a few minutes while you collect the drippings.

2. Place a strainer or colander over a heatproof container or bowl.

This container should be deep enough to hold the liquid without overflowing.

3. Pour the contents of the pressure cooker through the strainer, allowing the liquid to pass through while catching any solids or impurities in the strainer.

This will ensure that you have clear and flavorful drippings for your gravy.

4. Use a spoon or a fat separator to skim off any excess fat from the drippings.

This will help to reduce the greasiness of your gravy.

5. Once you have collected the drippings, you can proceed to make your gravy by following your favorite recipe or using the drippings as a base for a flavorful sauce.

Remember, the drippings from the pressure cooker are packed with flavor, so be sure to make the most of them when preparing your gravy.

Thickening and seasoning the gravy

collecting the drippings from the pressure cooker, it’s time to thicken and season the gravy.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Transfer the drippings to a saucepan or skillet and place it over medium heat.

2. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch or flour with a little water until smooth.

This will be used as a thickening agent.

3. Gradually whisk the thickening agent into the drippings, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

If it becomes too thick, you can add more liquid, such as chicken or turkey broth.

5. Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer.

Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

6. Once the gravy is well seasoned and thickened, remove it from heat and serve alongside the turkey for a delicious and flavorful meal.

Serving the pressure cooker turkey

Suggested side dishes and accompaniments

Carving and presenting the turkey

the turkey is cooked to perfection in your pressure cooker, it’s time to carve and present it in an appealing way.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Rest the Turkey: Allow the cooked turkey to rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving.

This allows the juices to distribute evenly, resulting in a moist and flavorful bird.

2. Remove the Legs and Wings: Start by removing the legs and wings from the turkey.

Use a sharp carving knife to cut through the joints where they meet the body.

3. Carve the Breast: Locate the breastbone and make a long, deep incision along one side.

Slice the breast meat diagonally, across the grain, into thin slices.

4. Separate the Thigh and Drumstick: Cut through the joint connecting the thigh and drumstick to separate them.

Arrange the thigh and drumstick pieces on a serving platter.

5. Plate the Breast Meat: Transfer the carved breast meat to a separate platter, arranging it neatly.

You can slightly overlap the slices to create an attractive display.

6. Serve with Pan Juices or Sauce: Pour any pan juices from the pressure cooker over the carved turkey to keep it moist and flavorful.

You can also serve it with additional gravy or a sauce of your choice.

7. Garnish and Present: Add some decorative garnishes such as fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or cranberries around the platters to enhance the presentation.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the carved turkey alongside your favorite side dishes and enjoy your delicious and perfectly cooked Thanksgiving or holiday feast.

Remember to use a sharp carving knife for clean and precise cuts, and don’t forget to savor the moment and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy cooking and happy feasting!

Benefits of using a pressure cooker for cooking turkey

The benefits of using a pressure cooker for cooking turkey are summarized in the table below:

Required Equipments:

When cooking a turkey in a pressure cooker, are a few key pieces of equipment that will come in handy.

– Pressure cooker:

This is the main equipment you’ll need to cook the turkey.

Invest in a high-quality pressure cooker that is suitable for the size of your turkey.

Look for one with safety features and a large capacity.

– Trivet or rack:

A trivet or rack is useful for elevating the turkey off the bottom of the pressure cooker.

This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the turkey from sticking to the pot.

– Thermometer:

A meat thermometer is essential for checking the internal temperature of the turkey.

It will help you ensure that the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat.

– Tongs or a ladle:

These utensils will help you safely handle the turkey when placing it in and removing it from the pressure cooker.

– Cutting board and knife:

You’ll need a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife for carving the turkey once it’s cooked.

– Serving platter:

Choose a large serving platter to beautifully present your pressure-cooked turkey at the table.

These equipment recommendations will be useful throughout the turkey cooking process and help you achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked turkey in your pressure cooker.

Trivet or rack for the turkey

Here are the steps for pressure cooking a turkey in a table format:

By following these steps, you can ensure that your turkey is cooked evenly and safely in your pressure cooker.

Other tools and utensils needed for How to Cook a Turkey In a Pressure Cooker

Aside from the trivet or rack, there are a few other tools and utensils that come in handy when cooking a turkey in a pressure cooker.

Firstly, a pair of long tongs is essential for safely placing the turkey into and removing it from the pressure cooker.

This will help prevent accidental burns or injuries.

A ladle is also useful for adding liquid to the pressure cooker without disturbing the turkey.

It allows for precise pouring and avoids any potential splatter.

A meat thermometer is a must-have tool for ensuring that the turkey is cooked to the correct internal temperature.

This will help you avoid undercooking or overcooking the bird.

Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh to get an accurate reading.

A cutting board is needed for resting the cooked turkey before carving and serving.

It’s important to allow the turkey to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute and ensure moist and flavorful meat.

Lastly, a sharp carving knife will make the task of carving the turkey much easier.

A well-sharpened knife will give you clean, precise cuts and help showcase your perfectly cooked turkey.

By having these additional tools and utensils on hand, you’ll be well-prepared to cook a turkey in a pressure cooker and achieve delicious results.

Common questions and concerns