Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast or simply enjoy a delicious, juicy smoked turkey anytime? This recipe will guide you through achieving perfectly smoked turkey breast using your Traeger grill, resulting in a mouthwatering centerpiece that's sure to impress. Forget dry, bland turkey; this method guarantees a tender, flavorful bird with a smoky aroma that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a fantastic alternative to traditional oven-roasted turkey. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly simple to make, making it a great option for homemade cooking, even for beginner cooks. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- One 4-6 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Equipment:
- Traeger grill or wood pellet smoker
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the skin crisp up beautifully. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, sage, pepper, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This is where the delicious flavor profile begins to build!
Step 2: Preheat Your Traeger
Preheat your Traeger to 325°F (163°C). Use your preferred wood pellets; hickory or applewood complements turkey beautifully.
Step 3: Smoke the Turkey
Place the seasoned turkey breast on the grill grates. Smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this can cause temperature fluctuations.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the Traeger and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey. Slice and serve your delicious, smoky turkey breast!
Tips for Success:
- Brining: For an extra juicy turkey, consider brining it overnight before smoking.
- Temperature Monitoring: Use a reliable meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Wood Selection: Experiment with different wood pellets to discover your favorite flavor profile.
Variations:
- Citrus Glaze: Add a citrus glaze during the last 30 minutes of smoking for a tangy twist.
- Herb Butter: Spread herb butter under the skin of the turkey breast for added flavor and moisture.
- Spicy Rub: Spice things up with a chili powder or cayenne pepper addition to the dry rub.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the turkey breast and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This Traeger smoked turkey recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy this classic dish with a delicious smoky twist. It's a simple recipe that delivers incredible results, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the deliciousness of this healthy and flavorful meal, a testament to the art of homemade cooking and the versatility of the Traeger grill. We hope you enjoy this quick dinner idea and add this to your best recipes collection!