Are you searching for a new and delicious way to cook turkey breast? Look no further than this mouthwatering smoked turkey breast recipe. Injected with a flavorful marinade and rubbed down with spices, this turkey breast is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering or special occasion. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for beginner smokers!
Why You Will Love This Smoked Turkey Recipe
- Sure-Fire Hit: This smoked turkey breast is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Whether you're serving it alongside another turkey or as the main event, it will impress everyone with its incredible flavor and juiciness.
- Different Flavors: Smoking the turkey infuses it with complex and delicious flavors. The marinade and spice rub add layers of taste, and the smoking process enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Easy to Follow Recipe: Even if you're a beginner when it comes to smoking meat, this recipe is simple to follow. You'll be able to create a perfectly smoked turkey breast with ease.
Why Choose Turkey Breast Instead of a Whole Turkey?
There are several reasons why turkey breast is a great option for smoking:
- Small Groups: If you're cooking for a smaller group of 6-10 people or for a Sunday dinner, a turkey breast is the perfect size.
- Only White Meat: Turkey breast is ideal if you prefer to cook and serve only white meat or if you want to have extra white meat alongside a whole turkey.
- Less Mess: Dealing with a whole turkey carcass and carving around the bones can be messy and time-consuming. With a turkey breast, you eliminate these hassles.
Ingredients for Smoked Turkey Breast
Before you start smoking your turkey breast, gather the following ingredients:
- Turkey Breast: Choose a bone-in turkey breast for the best flavor, but a boneless turkey breast will also work.
- Rub Spices: You'll need chili powder, paprika, garlic salt, onion salt, seasoning salt, and black pepper for the rub.
- Butter: Use room temperature or slightly melted butter to coat the outside of the turkey breast and facilitate the rubbing of spices.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Add a punch of flavor to the marinade with Worcestershire sauce.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
- Herbs: Classic herbs like sage and thyme are used in the marinade that is injected into the turkey breast.
In addition to the ingredients, you'll need a smoker and a heavy-duty meat injector for this recipe. The Camp Chef Woodwind Smoker is highly recommended for its ease of use and ability to create delicious flavors.
How to Smoke Turkey Breast
Follow these steps to smoke the perfect turkey breast:
Step 1: Injecting the Turkey
Prepare the marinade by mixing all the ingredients together. Use the injector attachment with the largest hole to avoid clogging. Rinse and pat dry the thawed turkey breast.
Inject the marinade into the turkey breast, moving the needle around in different directions within the same hole. Be careful not to create too many holes while ensuring the turkey absorbs as much marinade as possible. For optimal flavor infusion, inject and rub the turkey breast 24 hours ahead of time. If the turkey is frozen, thaw it 48 hours before cooking and inject and rub it 24 hours in advance.
Step 2: Adding Flavor on the Outside
Prepare the rub by combining all the spices together. Spread room temperature or slightly melted butter all over the outside and under the skin of the turkey breast. Apply the spice rub in the same manner as the butter, making sure to cover all areas. Wrap the turkey breast with plastic wrap and let it marinate for 24 hours.
Step 3: Smoking the Turkey
Preheat your smoker and add the pellets of your choice. Place the turkey breast, breast side up, in the center of the smoker when the temperature reaches around 225°F. Smoke the turkey breast at 225-250°F until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
How to Store Smoked Turkey Breast
If you have leftovers, store the smoked turkey breast in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, wrap it in foil and heat in the oven at 325°F until heated through. You can also enjoy it chilled or use it to make a delicious Thanksgiving sandwich!
What to Serve with Smoked Turkey Breast
This smoked turkey breast recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions:
- Mashed potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Cranberry sauce
- Stuffing
- Roasted vegetables
Expert Tips for the Perfect Smoked Turkey Breast
- Give it time to marinate: For the best results, let the marinade and rub flavors marinate the turkey breast for at least 24 hours. If you're short on time, marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Experiment with different pellets: Applewood pellets are recommended for a mild flavor, but feel free to try other types for different taste profiles.
- Use a thermometer to check doneness: Smoking can make it difficult to determine when the turkey is cooked. Use a thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest portion of the turkey breast.
- Allow the turkey breast to rest: After removing the smoked turkey breast from the smoker, let it rest for 20-30 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful turkey.
Recipe
Here are some frequently asked questions about smoking turkey breast:
What temperature do you smoke turkey?
Keep the smoker temperature at 225-250°F for best results. However, always monitor your turkey to ensure it cooks properly.
How long will it take to smoke the turkey?
The smoking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey breast, whether it has a bone, and the type of smoker used. As a general guide, plan for 30 minutes per pound at 225°F, 25 minutes per pound at 250°F, and 13 minutes per pound at 350°F.
What internal temperature do I need for the turkey?
The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
What kind of pellets should I use?
Applewood pellets are recommended for a mild flavor, but you can use your favorite type of pellets.
Can I smoke a whole turkey?
Yes, you can smoke a whole turkey using the same rub and injection marinade. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, allowing for approximately 30 minutes per pound.
Enjoy your delicious smoked turkey breast and have a fantastic meal with family and friends!
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