Should Make-Ahead Turkey Be Carved Before or After Refrigerating

Question

I make my two spatchcocked turkeys the day before Thanksgiving.  I know it's not ideal but it makes Thanksgiving day much easier.  I always let the turkeys sufficiently rest afterward, then slice the breasts and pull the remaining meat.  Thanksgiving day I put them in the slow cooker on low with a little broth/stock.  It comes out fine.  However, I am curious if there is any benefit to keeping the cooked turkey parts whole in the fridge and then slicing/pulling right before putting in the slow cooker.  Would that make any difference vs carving/pulling the day before in terms of moisture/texture?

Elizabeth Mindreau · Accepted Answer

Hello John – Your method sounds like a great plan for easing the stress of holiday cooking and if you are happy with the results, we see no reason to change it. Pulling the turkey meat is easiest before refrigeration and reheating it with broth will remedy any drying out that might happen in the fridge. As they say, if it ain't broke don't fix it! We wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Should Make-Ahead Turkey Be Carved Before or After Refrigerating

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