Smoked Turkey Breast

Smoked Turkey Breast is a flavorful and succulent main dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday or a casual summer barbecue. Smoking the turkey at a low temperature over wood chips infuses it with a rich, smoky flavor while keeping the meat incredibly moist and tender. This method of cooking also imparts a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside of the breast.

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in turkey breast (about 5-7 pounds)
• For the brine:
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 cup salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon peppercorns
  • 2 bay leaves
• For the rub:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Brine the turkey: In a large pot, combine all brine ingredients and bring to a boil to dissolve the salt and sugar. Cool completely to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator. Submerge the turkey breast in the cold brine and let it soak for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Prep for smoking: Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the brine. Rub the turkey breast all over with olive oil and evenly apply the spice rub.
3. Prepare your smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use your choice of wood chips—I recommend apple, hickory, or cherry for the best flavor.
4. Smoke the turkey: Place the turkey breast side up in the smoker. Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 3 to 4 hours depending on the size of the breast. Add wood chips and check the temperature periodically to maintain even smoking.
5. Rest the turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist.
6. Serve: Slice the turkey and serve as desired. It’s delicious on its own, with a side of grilled vegetables, or as part of a more elaborate meal.

Smoked turkey breast is a tasty and healthier alternative to red meat that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a wonderful choice for any meal where you want to impress your guests while keeping things relatively simple.