Description
Smoked turkey breast is a flavorful and juicy centerpiece, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines a savory spice rub with the rich, smoky flavor that brings out the best in turkey, creating a tender and unforgettable dish.
Ingredients
- Turkey breast (bone-in or boneless): 4-5 lbs
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Paprika: 1 tbsp
- Garlic powder: 2 tsp
- Onion powder: 2 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
- Kosher salt: 2 tsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp (optional for a hint of sweetness)
- Wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry): For smoking
Instructions
-
Prepare the Turkey Breast:
- Rinse the turkey breast and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Rub olive oil all over the turkey breast to help the seasoning stick.
-
Season:
- Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar in a bowl.
- Generously rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast, including under the skin if possible.
-
Prepare the Smoker:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add your choice of wood chips.
-
Smoke the Turkey:
- Place the turkey breast directly on the smoker grate, skin side up.
- Smoke for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
-
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the turkey breast from the smoker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes (the internal temperature will rise to 165°F/74°C).
- Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Optional Brine: For extra juicy turkey, brine it for 12-24 hours before smoking. Use a simple brine of water, salt, sugar, and your favorite herbs.
- Wood Chip Tip: Apple or cherry wood gives a mild, sweet flavor, while hickory adds a stronger, smoky taste.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz (approx.)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Smoked turkey breast, Thanksgiving turkey, smoked meat recipes, holiday main dish, turkey breast recipe