This Grilled Turkey Breast recipe offers a magnificent way to elevate your everyday meals and holiday feasts alike. Simple to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, it’s a delightful alternative to traditional whole turkey roasting.
Greetings, fellow grill enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a culinary delight that will change the way you think about turkey. I’m an absolute fan of turkey, whether it’s the centerpiece of a festive holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner. When cooked to perfection, the flavor and texture of turkey are truly unparalleled.
Imagine serving your family a perfectly grilled turkey breast, boasting a golden-brown, irresistibly crispy skin, and meat that is unbelievably juicy and tender. Each bite bursts with the aromatic flavors of fresh herbs and rich butter, creating a memorable dining experience. This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s a testament to how simple techniques can yield extraordinary results.
Are you salivating yet? Whether you’re planning a lively summer barbecue or seeking a fresh take on your holiday dinner, this Grilled Turkey Breast recipe is an absolute must-try. And here’s the best part: it’s far easier to achieve than you might imagine. Forget complicated steps and long hours in the kitchen; this method promises deliciousness with minimal fuss.
This grilled Turkey Breast isn’t confined to just holiday festivities; it’s an ideal meal for any time of the year, especially when the urge to fire up the grill strikes (which, for many of us, is almost always!). It serves as a magnificent alternative to cooking an entire bird, particularly when you’re catering to a smaller group or simply have a craving for succulent white meat. Plus, it’s a healthier option that never compromises on taste, delivering lean protein packed with flavor.
So, the next time you browse the poultry section at your grocery store and spot a beautiful turkey breast, remember this simple yet sensational recipe. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful grilled feast that is both satisfying and incredibly rewarding to prepare. Happy grilling!
Common Questions About Grilling Turkey Breast
Should the turkey be at room temperature before grilling?
Absolutely! Allowing your turkey breast to come closer to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before it hits the grill promotes more even cooking. This prevents the outside from drying out while the inside struggles to reach the target temperature. However, for food safety, never leave poultry out for more than two hours.
Is it okay if I don’t have fresh herbs for the rub?
Of course! While fresh herbs impart a vibrant, nuanced flavor, dried herbs are a perfectly acceptable and convenient alternative. As a general rule, use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated. So, if a recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary, use about two-thirds of a teaspoon of dried rosemary.
Any tips for a crispy skin?
For that coveted, delightfully crispy skin, several factors are key. First, ensure your turkey breast is thoroughly patted dry with paper towels before applying the rub. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Second, preheat your grill exceptionally well. Starting skin-side down on a hot grate helps render the fat quickly. Finally, consider finishing with a short burst of direct heat if needed, carefully monitoring to prevent burning.
What is the ideal internal temperature for grilled turkey breast?
For perfectly cooked and safe turkey breast, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). However, for grilling, it’s best to remove the turkey from the heat when it reaches about 160°F (71°C) in the thickest part of the breast. The temperature will continue to rise by a few degrees as it rests, ensuring maximum juiciness without overcooking.
How can I prevent my turkey breast from drying out on the grill?
Grilling can sometimes lead to dry turkey, but with a few precautions, you can keep it moist and tender. Using a bone-in turkey breast helps, as the bone provides insulation. Also, cooking with indirect heat for most of the duration, placing a drip pan with broth or water under the turkey, and most importantly, using a reliable meat thermometer to avoid overcooking are crucial steps. Basting periodically with the pan juices or a butter mixture also adds moisture.
Storage & Leftovers
Is there anything more versatile and delicious than leftover turkey meat? I often find myself cooking a whole turkey just to ensure I have an abundance of leftovers. It’s incredibly useful in so many different recipes, or, let’s be honest, perfect for snacking straight from the container!
Refrigerator
Once your grilled turkey breast has cooled, carve it into slices or shred the meat. Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and flavorful for 3-4 days, making it ideal for next-day sandwiches, salads, or quick additions to various dishes.
Freezer
If you find yourself with an ample supply of leftovers, freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage. Cut the turkey breast into smaller portions or dice it up. Place the pieces in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. Frozen turkey can be stored for up to 2-3 months and makes a fantastic, convenient addition to future salads, casseroles, soups, or even pasta dishes.
Expert Tips for Grilling Turkey Breast
The grilled flavor imparted in this recipe is truly exceptional, and for me, the crispy turkey skin is arguably the best part. It’s so addictive, like a savory treat! To help you achieve grilling perfection, here are some essential tips:
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Always ensure your turkey is thoroughly patted dry with paper towels before applying the rub. Excess moisture on the skin prevents it from getting perfectly crispy. This simple step makes a huge difference.
- Utilize a Roasting Pan: Using an aluminum foil or disposable foil roasting pan to hold the turkey on the grill is key. It serves a dual purpose: it catches all the flavorful drippings that can be used for gravy, and it helps prevent direct contact with intense heat, reducing flare-ups and ensuring more even, gentle cooking.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: A reliable instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend when grilling poultry. It ensures you achieve the perfect internal temperature (160°F / 71°C before resting) every time, guaranteeing food safety and preventing dry, overcooked meat.
- The Importance of Resting: After removing the turkey from the grill, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an incredibly moist and tender final product. Cutting too soon will cause all those delicious juices to run out.
- Indirect Heat is Your Friend: For successful turkey breast grilling, primarily use indirect heat. Set up your grill with one side hot and the other side off (gas grill) or coals pushed to one side (charcoal grill). Place the turkey on the cooler side to cook gently and evenly, then finish with a brief sear over direct heat for extra crispiness, if desired.
- Consider a Brine: For an extra layer of moisture and flavor, consider brining your turkey breast for a few hours or overnight before grilling. A simple salt and sugar brine can work wonders in enhancing tenderness and infusing flavor throughout the meat.
Ingredients for the Perfect Grilled Turkey Breast
For this delightful turkey recipe, we’re embracing classic seasonings that have stood the test of time. There’s a very good reason why rosemary, sage, and thyme are so incredibly popular with turkey: they simply taste fantastic together, creating an aromatic and deeply savory profile.
- Turkey breast: Opt for a bone-in, completely thawed turkey breast. Bone-in helps keep the meat moist during grilling.
- Medium onion: Chopped, this adds aromatic depth to the pan juices.
- Celery: Chopped, contributes to the flavor base in the roasting pan.
- Turkey or chicken broth: Adds moisture and creates a flavorful liquid for basting and potential gravy.
Butter Herb Rub:
- Butter: Softened, unsalted butter forms the rich base of our rub, helping to crisp the skin and carry the herb flavors.
- Rosemary: Fresh, finely chopped, or dried. Rosemary offers a fragrant, piney aroma that beautifully complements poultry.
- Sage: Fresh, finely chopped, or dried. Sage provides an earthy, slightly peppery note, a hallmark flavor of traditional turkey dishes.
- Thyme: Fresh, finely chopped, or dried. Thyme adds a delicate, minty, and subtly sweet herbaceousness.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and zest.
How to Make Perfect Grilled Turkey Breast
Using a bone-in turkey breast here is truly key for maximum flavor and moisture retention, so it’s worth the effort to find one. Bone-in cuts are much less likely to dry out compared to boneless turkey breast. You won’t regret the purchase!
- Prepare the Turkey: Carefully remove the turkey breast from its packaging. Place it on a clean prep tray and thoroughly pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Mix the Rub: In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for your butter herb rub: softened unsalted butter, finely chopped fresh (or dried) rosemary, sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Apply the Rub: Generously coat the entire surface of the turkey breast with the butter rub. Ensure you get into all the nooks and crannies, and even gently lift the skin to rub some directly onto the meat for maximum flavor penetration.
- Set Up the Roasting Pan: Place the seasoned turkey breast into a doubled disposable aluminum roasting pan. Add the chopped onions and celery around the turkey in the pan. Pour the turkey or chicken broth into the pan; this liquid will keep the turkey moist and create flavorful drippings.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, aiming for a consistent temperature range of 375-425°F (190-220°C). For best results, set up your grill for indirect cooking if possible, meaning one side is hot and the other is cooler.
- Grill the Turkey: Carefully place the roasting pan with the turkey breast onto the grill grates, preferably over indirect heat. Cook for approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the breast. As a general guide, allow 12-15 minutes of cooking time per pound of turkey breast.
- Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey reaches the target temperature, remove the pan from the grill. Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period is vital for allowing the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result.
- Carve and Serve: After resting, carve the turkey breast against the grain into slices and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
- Store Leftovers: Any remaining turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or cut up and frozen for another delicious recipe later.
Essential Kitchen Supplies for Grilling Turkey Breast
Personally, I adore the unique smoky flavor that a charcoal grill imparts to meat; it instantly transports me back to summer days spent grilling at my grandparent’s house. However, I’m equally fond of a gas grill for its sheer convenience – it’s super quick and easy to fire up!
- Gas or charcoal grill: The star of the show! Choose your preference for smoky flavor (charcoal) or convenience (gas).
- Prep tray: Essential for handling raw turkey safely and keeping your workspace clean.
- Small bowl: For mixing the aromatic herb butter rub.
- Aluminum roasting pan or foil pan: Crucial for cooking the turkey in indirect heat, catching drippings, and preventing flare-ups.
- Instant-read thermometer: The most important tool for ensuring your turkey is cooked perfectly and safely, without drying it out.
- Cutting board and carving knife: A sturdy board and a sharp knife are key for neat and easy carving after the turkey has rested.
- Basting brush: Useful for applying pan juices or extra butter rub during cooking to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
- Grill tongs: For safely handling the roasting pan on and off the hot grill.
What to Serve With Grilled Turkey Breast
When it comes to pairing sides with grilled turkey breast, you can always lean into some of the beloved classics often served during Thanksgiving. Personally, I believe there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a good stuffing, no matter what time of year it is! Ha!
- Classic mashed potatoes and gravy: The ultimate comfort food pairing, perfect for soaking up all the delicious turkey juices.
- Fresh garden salad with a zesty lemon juice dressing: Provides a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the rich turkey.
- Grilled vegetables drizzled with olive oil: Complementary to the grilling method, vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini absorb a wonderful smoky char.
- Cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness: Offers a bright, tart, and sweet contrast that balances the savory meat.
- Roasted root vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted with herbs make a hearty and flavorful side.
- Cornbread or dinner rolls: Perfect for serving alongside, especially with a dollop of butter.
- Green bean casserole: A comforting, creamy classic that always pairs well with turkey.
Why You Should Make Grilled Turkey Breast
If you’re as big a fan of turkey as I am, you absolutely must try this grilling recipe. While it wasn’t my standard method for cooking turkey in the past, it has certainly soared to the top of my list these days. Yum!
- Healthy Choice: Turkey breast meat is naturally lean and packed with protein, making it an excellent, health-conscious option for any diner looking for a nutritious meal.
- Incredible Versatility: The beauty of grilled turkey breast extends to its versatility. Leftover turkey can be transformed into a myriad of delicious dishes, from sandwiches and salads to tacos, soups, and casseroles.
- Perfect for Smaller Gatherings: When a whole bird is simply too much for your crowd, grilling a turkey breast offers a convenient and perfectly portioned alternative. It delivers all the festive flavor without the overwhelming quantity.
- Summer Ready & Beyond: Who says turkey is only for the holidays? This grilled rendition is a fantastic main dish perfect for grilling season, summer cookouts, or any time you want a flavorful, easy-to-prepare meal outdoors.
- Frees Up Oven Space: Especially during holiday cooking, oven space is precious. Grilling your turkey breast keeps the oven free for other sides, desserts, or simply to keep your kitchen cooler.
- Unique Flavor Profile: Grilling imparts a distinct smoky char that oven-roasting simply can’t replicate. This adds a depth of flavor that makes grilled turkey breast truly special.
Variations and Add-Ins for Grilled Turkey Breast
I would enthusiastically recommend trying the spicy version mentioned below – but that’s just my personal preference! Whatever your taste, feel free to experiment with these variations. You certainly won’t regret the decision to get creative in the kitchen.
- Lemon Zest Brightness: For a refreshing citrus hint, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon zest to your butter rub. The zest will brighten the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- BBQ Turkey Breast: Before grilling, brush the turkey breast generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Apply it during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to prevent the sugars from burning, creating a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- Asian-Inspired Marinade: For an exotic twist, marinate your turkey breast for a few hours in a mixture of soy sauce, apple cider, and a brown sugar rub. This creates a sweet, savory, and tangy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add a touch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the butter rub. Adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level.
- Boneless Delight: While bone-in is recommended for moisture, a boneless turkey breast can be used for a faster cooking time. Be extra vigilant with the meat thermometer to avoid drying it out, as it will cook more quickly.
- Garlic Herb Explosion: Enhance the classic herb rub by mincing a few cloves of fresh garlic and mixing them into the butter. Garlic pairs wonderfully with rosemary, sage, and thyme.
- Smoked Paprika Depth: For an extra layer of smoky flavor and a beautiful reddish hue, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to your butter rub. It complements the grilled essence perfectly.
If you love this recipe for turkey as much as I do, please consider leaving a five-star review, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family on Facebook and Pinterest!
If you appreciate this easy turkey recipe, you’re going to adore these other holiday turkey recipes too. Please click each link below to discover the simple, printable recipe!
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Grilled Turkey Breast
Ingredients
- 6 pounds turkey breast bone-in, completely thawed
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 stalks celery chopped
- 1 cup turkey broth or chicken
Butter Rub
- ½ cup butter softened – unsalted
- 2 teaspoons rosemary fresh – chopped finely or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 teaspoons sage fresh – chopped finely or 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 2 teaspoons thyme fresh – chopped finely or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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Remove the turkey breast from the packaging, place it on a prep tray and, pat dry with paper towels.
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In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the rub.
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Coat the turkey breast with the butter rub.
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Place the turkey breast into a doubled disposable aluminum roasting pan and add the chopped onions and celery into the pan. Add the turkey or chicken broth to the pan.
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, 375-425°F.
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Place the pan with the turkey breast on the grill grates and cook for 1- 1 ½ hours or until internal temperature reaches 160° F. Allow 12-15 minutes of cooking time per pound of turkey breast.
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Remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
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Carve and serve.
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Store any leftovers in the refrigerator or cut it up and freeze it for another recipe later.
Equipment
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grill
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roasting pan
Nutrition
Nutritional information for the recipe is provided as a courtesy and is approximate. Please double-check with your own dietary calculator for the best accuracy. We at Yummi Haus cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.