Rachael Ray and Alex Guarnaschelli Share the Secret to a Flavorful Turkey This Thanksgiving

When the Dinogo team discusses their 'perfect' turkey recipes, the conversation often shifts to brining methods, basting techniques, seasoning blends, or cooking styles—whether spatchcocked or smoked.

While working with chefs on a recent guide for preparing the juiciest turkey, we discovered an unexpected tip that revolutionized our approach—and we wish we'd known it sooner. As it turns out, celebrity chefs Rachael Ray and Alex Guarnaschelli also recommend this technique.

Read on to uncover a game-changing tip that will not only help you serve up the juiciest turkey this year, but also reduce cooking time, simplify meal prep, and leave you with more of the coveted turkey cuts.

The Key to the Most Delicious Thanksgiving Turkey Ever

The key to a perfect Thanksgiving turkey starts at the store—where you purchase your poultry. While brining and cooking techniques are important, one of the easiest ways to enhance your turkey’s flavor is by opting for two smaller birds instead of one large one.

For a juicier and more flavorful turkey, aim for birds weighing 12 pounds or less, advises Rob Wright, co-owner of The Warwick Houston, a restaurant that serves Thanksgiving dinner. Typically, 'small turkey' refers to birds in the 10 to 14-pound range.

Kieron Hales, executive chef and owner of Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter, Michigan, agrees. He recommends cooking two smaller birds instead of a single 25-pound turkey when serving about 18 people. 'People often choose a turkey that’s too large for the number of guests. Larger birds are harder to cook evenly and to keep juicy. I prefer cooking two smaller turkeys for better results—they’re easier to manage and cook more evenly,' Hales says.

Why Opting for Smaller Turkeys Is the Best Choice

• They thaw and cook more quickly than large birds.
• Two small turkeys often fit in one oven at the same time.
• Smaller birds fit more easily in the fridge and are easier to carry.
• You’ll have double the legs and thighs for dark meat lovers.
• There will be twice as many wishbones for tableside challenges.
• They cook more evenly.
• Smaller turkeys are generally younger, which means more tender meat.
• Local, organic, and heritage turkeys are often in the 10- to 12-pound range, so choosing small can be more eco-friendly.
• Smaller turkeys have more exposed surface area, creating extra crispy skin for everyone to enjoy.

This method has a lot of supporters. On her talk show, Rachael Ray praised it, and on TikTok, chef Alex Guarnaschelli recommended it to a fan, suggesting that two smaller turkeys give you 'two chances to get it right, more leftovers, and a lot more wings and drumsticks.'

How Much Turkey Should You Plan Per Guest?

For leftovers, plan on 1 1/2 pounds of turkey per person. If you're aiming to have just enough for Thanksgiving Day, 1 pound per person should suffice. With the two-bird method, here’s how it works:

• Two 10-pound birds: Serves around 20 guests, or 13 with leftovers
• Two 12-pound birds: Serves around 24 guests, or 16 with leftovers
• Two 14-pound birds: Serves around 28 guests, or 18 with leftovers

Smaller turkeys are also perfect for smaller gatherings. For example, a 12-pound turkey is just right for a group of eight, with enough leftovers for a second round of Black Friday turkey casserole, pasta, or soup.

Now that you know why cooking a smaller turkey (or two) is a great idea this year, check out our guide on how to cook small turkeys and leave everyone wondering, 'Did a professional chef make this?'