Smoked Turkey Breast

Upgrade the holiday with this flavorful Smoked Turkey Breast. Simple to make and all your guests will rave. Make your Thanksgiving amazing!

Nothing welcomes you to a festive meal quite like the aroma of a juicy turkey breast fresh out of the smoker. Imagine a beautifully smoked turkey breast with a crispy exterior, subtly kissed by smoke flavor, revealing tender and flavorful white meat with each slice.

Oh, my mouth waters just thinking of it! The magic of smoking brings so much flavor to every pound of turkey, making it a wonderful centerpiece for any meal. Ready to explore this delicious smoked turkey breast recipe? Let’s dive right in!

Smoking a turkey breast may seem like a challenge, but with this easy recipe, you’re equipped to make a perfectly smoked turkey breast that’s bound to impress.

From the flavorful brine ingredients to the wonderful smoke, every element comes together to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up a bone-in turkey breast.

You’ll love the smoking process from start to finish. Here’s to many delicious meals ahead!

Common Questions About Smoked Turkey Breast

How do I know when the turkey is cooked perfectly?

An instant-read thermometer is your best friend here. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, and when it reads 160 degrees F, you’re golden!

What kind of wood is best for smoking turkey?

Applewood and cherry wood are favorites for turkey, imparting a mild, fruity smoke flavor.

Is it necessary to brine the turkey?

Absolutely! Brining ensures a flavorful turkey by allowing the salt, brown sugar, and seasonings to permeate the meat. It’s the key to a juicy turkey breast.

Storage

You should know that I love all things smoked, and this is no exception. Smoked turkey is really high on my top 10 list of favorite foods. If you’ve never had it before, you’re in for a real treat!

Refrigerator
Your smoked turkey breast should be stored in an airtight container and will be good for 3-4 days.

Freezer
For longer storage, wrap your turkey in aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay tasty for up to 3 months.

Tips

• Pat the turkey dry with paper towels after removing it from the brine. This helps get a crisp exterior.
• Ensure the turkey is at room temperature before smoking for even cooking.
• Using a digital thermometer ensures you achieve the perfect internal temperature of the turkey.
• To retain moisture, rest the smoked turkey wrapped in aluminum foil for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Ingredients

Most of these ingredients are going towards the brine. It’s really important that you get that turkey into the brine according to the instructions. This is not a part you want to skip, trust me!

• Turkey Breast (bone-in, skin-on)
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• Coarse kosher salt
• Turkey Brine
  • Cold water
  • Apple juice (unfiltered)
  • Cider vinegar
  • Salt
  • Brown sugar
  • Crushed garlic cloves
  • Peppercorns
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika

How to Make Smoked Turkey Breast

You’re going to make this turkey breast overnight! Letting it soak in that brine really brings the flavor and juiciness that everyone craves in a good turkey breast. Once you smoke it, this turkey will be the best thing you’ve eaten in a long time!

Start with the brine

1. Combine the water, apple juice, vinegar, salt, brown sugar, garlic, peppercorns, onion powder, and paprika in a large saucepan, bring to a boil, and stir until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
2. Place the turkey breast into a large brining bucket along with some ice-cold water and the brine mixture, and set it in the refrigerator overnight. Make sure the brine covers the turkey.

The Next Day

1. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. 
2. Allow it to dry and come to room temperature for about 30 minutes on the kitchen counter.
3. Season the turkey breast with coarse kosher salt and cracked black pepper.
4. Preheat the smoker to 225 degrees F.
5. Place the turkey breast directly on the smoker grates, breast side up, and smoke 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F in the thickest part of the breast.
6. When done, remove the breast from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes. 
7. Cut breast from the bone and cut it into ½-inch thick medallions and serve immediately.

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Smoked Turkey Breast

Make sure you have a working thermometer on hand! It’s very important you don’t overcook this turkey. Nobody wants a dried-out turkey breast, right? 

• Large bowl (for brining)
• Paper towels
• Smoker or pellet smoker
• Instant-read thermometer
• Sharp knife for slicing

What to Serve With Smoked Turkey Breast

I absolutely love a good turkey gravy with this recipe. If you can, save some of the drippings from the turkey as you cook it. The smoky flavor will be infused into the breast as well as the gravy that way!

• A luscious turkey gravy to complement the smoky flavor.
• Classic side dishes like green bean casserole or mashed potatoes.
• A refreshing apple cider drink to complement the smoked taste.

Why You Should Make Smoked Turkey Breast

Smoked turkey breast is a dish that everyone can love. I always like to make more than I need. That way I can have leftovers for the rest of the week! 

• Flavor-packed: Smoking adds a depth of flavor that’s unbeatable.
• Healthy Option: White meat from turkey is leaner, making it a healthier choice.
• Versatility: Smoked turkey breast can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches to salads.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: It’s a great option for holidays and gatherings.
• Less Intimidating: Smoking just the breast is less daunting than tackling a whole bird.

Variations and Add-Ins for Smoked Turkey Breast

Be sure to try out different types of wood in your smoker. There are so many options out there and each one will give you a subtly different flavor.

• Dry Rub: Instead of a wet brine, use a combination of garlic powder, paprika, and other spices for a dry rub.
• Apple Cider Marinade: Inject apple cider using a marinade injection syringe for an extra juicy result.
• Herbed Butter: Mix fresh thyme and softened butter, and rub under the skin before smoking.
• Spice it Up: Add some chili flakes or cayenne to the brine for a spicy kick.

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If you love this smoked turkey recipe, you’re going to love these other smoker recipes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great Turkey Breast Recipes

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Instant Pot Turkey Breast

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Cajun Turkey Breast

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