Are you dreaming of succulent, smoky turkey breast without the fuss of a whole bird? Then you've come to the right place! This Traeger recipe delivers juicy, flavorful turkey breast every time, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget dry, overcooked turkey; this method ensures a moist and tender masterpiece, bursting with smoky goodness. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy, healthy, and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or apple juice
Equipment:
- Traeger Grill or Pellet Smoker
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
Preparing the Turkey Breast:
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes even browning.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Smoking the Turkey Breast:
- Preheat your Traeger to 325°F (163°C). Use hickory or apple wood pellets for a classic smoky flavor.
- Place the turkey breast on the grill grates.
- Smoke for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey breast.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, pour the chicken broth or apple juice into the smoker pan underneath the turkey breast. This will add moisture and prevent the turkey from drying out.
Resting and Serving:
- Once the turkey breast reaches 165°F (74°C), remove it from the Traeger and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve.
Tips for Traeger Turkey Breast Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Ensure there's enough space around the turkey breast for even smoke circulation.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your turkey breast is cooked to the safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your turkey breast and the ambient temperature. Always check the internal temperature with a thermometer.
- Experiment with different wood pellets: Try different wood pellets like mesquite or pecan for unique flavor profiles.
Variations:
- Herb-infused turkey: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the spice rub for an aromatic twist.
- Citrus glaze: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey breast with a citrus glaze made from orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Spicy turkey: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice rub for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the size of the turkey breast and serving size. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities you used. Generally, expect a healthy meal with a good source of lean protein.
This Traeger smoked turkey breast recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and the delicious results make it a winner for special occasions too. Enjoy your homemade cooking!