Think of your turkey like a big, awkward chicken. You wouldn’t cook a chicken breast to 200°F, right? Same logic applies. The turkey is just a larger, clumsier cousin.
Or compare it to a slow-cooked brisket. You don’t rush a brisket; you let it hit the right temp and rest. Your turkey deserves that same respect. It’s not a race—it’s a roast.
If you’re feeling fancy, try a spatchcocked turkey (flattened out). It cooks faster and more evenly, reaching perfection at 165°F in the thighs and 155°F in the breast. It’s like giving your turkey a yoga pose—and it works.