Now, you might be wondering how chefs and cooking experts come up with these cooking times. Well, it's not rocket science, but it does involve some basic math. The general rule of thumb is to cook a turkey for about 20 minutes per pound, but this can vary depending on the oven temperature, the turkey's internal temperature, and other factors.
For example, if you're cooking your turkey at 325°F, you'll want to factor in some extra time to make sure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. And don't even get me started on the importance of not overcrowding the oven - you want to give that turkey some breathing room to cook evenly. It's like the turkey is saying, "Hey, personal space, please!"
How Long to Cook a Turkey in the Oven, Grill or Smoker
But what about deep-frying a 23-pound turkey? Well, that's a whole different ball game. With deep-frying, you're looking at a much shorter cooking time - around 3-5 minutes per pound. However, this method requires some serious caution and expertise, as it can be a real fire hazard if not done properly.