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Bobby Flay spiced turkey rub - featured image

Bobby Flay Spiced Turkey Rub Recipe for Perfect Juicy Roast

  • Author: Magnolia Reese
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 12-14 servings 1x

Description

This Bobby Flay-inspired spiced turkey rub transforms any roast turkey into a juicy, flavorful centerpiece with smoky, sweet, and savory notes. Quick to prepare and perfect for holidays or family dinners, it guarantees crispy skin and bold taste every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), thawed and patted dry (or turkey breasts/thighs for smaller gatherings)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage (optional, for stuffing or garnish)
  • Citrus slices (optional—lemon or orange inside the cavity for extra juiciness)

Instructions

  1. Remove the turkey from packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Take out any giblets from the cavity.
  2. Place the turkey on a clean roasting rack in your pan, breast side up.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, chili powder, ground black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until evenly blended.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey and rub it in with your hands or a brush.
  5. Sprinkle the spice rub evenly over the turkey, working it into all nooks and crannies, including under the wings and inside the cavity.
  6. Optionally, tuck fresh rosemary or sage and citrus slices into the cavity.
  7. Let the seasoned turkey sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
  8. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  9. Roast the turkey, uncovered, for about 13-15 minutes per pound (for a 12-lb bird, roughly 2.5-3 hours). Baste halfway through with pan juices.
  10. If the skin browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
  11. Check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the breast (should read 165°F). If legs aren’t done, continue roasting until they reach 175°F.
  12. Remove turkey from oven and tent with foil. Let rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
  13. Carve and serve with pan drippings, gravy, or your favorite sides.

Notes

Patting the turkey dry ensures crispy skin. For extra flavor, rub some seasoning under the skin. Letting the turkey rest before and after roasting is key for juicy meat. The rub can be made ahead and stored for up to a month. Adapt the spice blend to taste or dietary needs. Works well on chicken or pork too.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 6 oz (170g) roasted turkey with rub per serving
  • Calories: 260
  • Sodium: 550
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Carbohydrates: 4
  • Protein: 36

Keywords: Bobby Flay, turkey rub, roast turkey, Thanksgiving, holiday recipe, spiced turkey, juicy turkey, easy turkey rub, gluten-free, dairy-free, main course

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Find it online: https://lowcaloriesrecipe.com/bobby-flay-spiced-turkey-rub-recipe-for-perfect-juicy-roast/