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Smoked Turkey Breast

Discover the art of preparing smoked turkey breast, which promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests craving more!

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
3 hrs
Additional Time
12 hrs
Total Time
15 hrs 20 mins
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 125 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 turkey breast
For the brine
  • 4 Cups apple juice
  • 1 Tablespoon coarse kosher salt or sea salt
  • 2 Teaspoons whole black pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 Tablespoon sage, dried
  • water to cover
  • olive oil
For the dry rub
  • 3 Teaspoons garlic powder
  • 3 Tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 Teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 Teaspoons paprika
  • 1 Teaspoon rosemary
  • 1 Teaspoon thyme
  • 1 Teaspoon sage
  • 2 Teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 Teaspoon salt
  • ½ Teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Mix the herbs and salt in a pot with one cup of water. Heat until the salt is dissolved. Add it to a container large enough to accommodate the turkey breast. Add ice cubes to it to cool it to room temperature.
  2. Add the rest of the brine ingredients, and then add the turkey. Cover it with water if needed.
  3. Place it in the refrigerator overnight. You can brine it for two days, if desired.
  4. Remove the breast for the brine and let it drip for a few minutes.
  5. Dry it inside and outside with paper towels.
  6. Drizzle it with olive oil or melted butter and rub it all around.
  7. Mix the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl. Season it well with the dry rub, rubbing it into the meat.
  8. Don’t forget to season the inside of the cavity.
  9. Set up your smoker with wood and a container of water. Get the smoker going to a temperature of 225°F/115°C. Place turkey breast directly on the smoker racks. Smoke for 2-3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F/80°C in the thickest part of the breast.
  10. Remove the bird from the smoker. Tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes.

Notes

  • What wood to use
  • We prefer apple wood with this recipe. It compliments to apple juice in the brine. You could also use cherry wood. Hickory and more intense woods will overpower the turkey, so stay clear of those.
  • How to store leftovers
  • See the article above for more important suggestions, tips, and tricks.
  • Cool Down: Allow the smoked turkey to cool to room temperature. Do not leave it out for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Slice or Shred: If you have a large amount, consider slicing or shredding the turkey. This makes it easier to store and use later.
  • Airtight Containers: Place the turkey in an airtight container. If you don’t have containers, you can use heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or resealable plastic bags. If using bags, try to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
  • Refrigeration: Store the turkey in the refrigerator if you plan to use it within three to four days. Ensure your fridge is at or below 40°F (4°C) to keep the turkey safe.
  • Freezing for Longer Storage: For longer storage, freeze the turkey. It can be kept in the freezer for up to four months without significant loss of quality. When freezing, label the containers or bags with the date, so you know how long it’s been stored.
  • Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to eat the frozen turkey, thaw it in the refrigerator, not at room temperature. To reheat, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria.
  • Avoid Repeated Reheating: Reheat only the amount of turkey you plan to use. Repeated reheating can dry out the meat and increase the risk of foodborne illness.

Nutrition Information

Calories 125kcal (6%) Carbohydrates 14g (5%) Protein 15g (30%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 0.3g (2%) Polyunsaturated Fat 0.4g Monounsaturated Fat 0.4g Trans Fat 0.01g Cholesterol 35mg (12%) Sodium 920mg (38%) Potassium 290mg (8%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 11g (22%) Vitamin A 312IU (6%) Vitamin C 1mg (1%) Calcium 38mg (4%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 12servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 125

% Daily Value*

Calories 125kcal 6%
Carbohydrates 14g 5%
Protein 15g 30%
Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 0.3g 2%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.4g 2%
Monounsaturated Fat 0.4g 2%
Trans Fat 0.01g 1%
Cholesterol 35mg 12%
Sodium 920mg 38%
Potassium 290mg 6%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 11g 22%
Vitamin A 312IU 6%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 38mg 4%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.