Should we pick chicken over turkey this Christmas?
With a smaller Christmas on the cards, we consider whether turkey makes sense this year
It tends to be the case that turkey only really gets a look-in come December largely due to the fact that it feeds a multitude of guests. We load it up with stuffing, slather it in cranberry sauce, and crown it with pigs-in-blankets.
But this year, with more compact family groups meeting, and no chance of a Boxing Day turkey curry buffet bonanza or leftovers party, wrangling with a turkey might just make less sense…
Let’s consider the pros and cons of a traditional turkey Christmas, in an untraditional year, and decide whether chicken deserves its moment on the festive table.
In favour of turkey
When it’s good, turkey can be amazing. As long as it’s not overcooked, and loads of herbed butter has been wedged beneath the skin, and the top has been dotted with orange slices. That and a slab of stuffing = heaven.
The leftovers are even better than the main event. Turkey Thai green curry, turkey tacos, turkey stir fry, turkey pie – and the king of it all: a leftover turkey sandwich with all the trimmings. It’s worth the bother of trying to fit the turkey in the oven in the first place.
It looks magnificent on the table. Presenting a burnished roast bird the size of a turkey is, without a doubt, impressive. There’s theatre to it – especially once (someone brave) starts carving.
It’s tradition. And we could all do with something being familiar and comforting this Christmas.
In favour of chicken
A chicken always fits in the fridge and the oven. Cooking them is still significantly easier – and quicker – than untrussing and de-gibleting a turkey.
They’re easy to deal with. You know where you’re at with a chicken, you’ve perfected your preferred roasting method and favourite seasonings. There’s no fuss or worry – and you know it won’t dry out.
The leftovers won’t be quite so overwhelming. There’ll be enough for a sandwich or two, and a curry of course, but you won’t be stuck eating it on a loop into the new year.
You’ll have more time to devote to the sides. Which are, after all, the best bit really. Homemade Yorkshires, incredible stuffing, all the veg – without fretting over turkey, there’s just more space to think about everything else. Or to put your feet up and have another slice of chocolate orange while the chicken just gets along by itself.
Of course, you could go entirely rogue. Beef Wellington, anyone?
Will you be having traditional turkey this Christmas or do you think a chicken is more practical this year? We’d love to hear your views.
