Smoked Boneless Skinless Turkey Breast Recipe
When it comes to serving turkey, nothing beats a juicy, smoked boneless skinless turkey breast. While a whole turkey may look impressive, these flavorful and tender turkey breasts are the real star of the show. Whether you're making them for Thanksgiving, meal prep, or just a delicious dinner, this recipe ensures a perfectly seasoned, moist, and smoky turkey breast every time.
Why Choose Boneless Skinless Turkey Breast?
Boneless skinless turkey breasts are easy to prepare, cook faster than a whole bird, and offer plenty of meat with no waste. They're perfect for feeding a crowd, making sandwiches, or using in leftover recipes like turkey pot pie or turkey gumbo.
Ingredients:
2 large boneless skinless turkey breasts
½ bottle of poultry brine
1 gallon of water
Cooking spray (or melted butter/oil)
Cajun seasoning
Coarse salt and black pepper seasoning
1 stick of butter, cut in half
¼ cup chicken broth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brining the Turkey Breast
Brining helps keep the turkey breast juicy and flavorful.
1. Remove the turkey breasts from the packaging.
2. In a large meat bag or container, mix ½ bottle of poultry brine with 1 gallon of water.
3. Submerge the turkey breasts and let them soak overnight in the refrigerator.
4. After brining, remove the turkey from the liquid, let it drain, and pat it dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Seasoning the Turkey
1. Lightly coat the turkey breasts with cooking spray to help the seasoning stick.
2. Sprinkle a light layer of Cajun seasoning on all sides.
3. Add a second layer of coarse salt and black pepper seasoning for texture and extra flavor.
Step 3: Prepping the Smoker
1. Set up a smoker at 275°F (135°C).
2. Use charcoal and hickory wood for a rich, smoky flavor.
3. Once the smoker is at temperature and producing clean smoke, place the turkey breasts inside.
Step 4: Smoking the Turkey
1. Insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of each breast.
2. Place the larger breast in the hottest part of the smoker.
3. Let the turkey smoke for about an hour, or until it reaches 120°F (49°C) internally.
Step 5: Wrapping for Extra Juiciness
1. Lay a sheet of aluminum foil down and place half a stick of butter on it.
2. Place the turkey breast on top of the butter.
3. Pour ¼ cup chicken broth over the turkey.
4. Wrap the foil tightly around the turkey and insert the probe thermometer back in.
5. Return the wrapped turkey breasts to the smoker and continue cooking.
Step 6: Final Cooking & Resting
1. Cook the turkey until it reaches 160°F (71°C) internal temperature.
2. Remove from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
3. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Serving the Smoked Turkey Breast
Once the turkey has rested, slice it against the grain for the best texture. Serve it as a main dish, use it for sandwiches, or save leftovers for soups and casseroles.
This smoked turkey breast is packed with flavor, easy to cook, and perfect for any occasion. Try it out, and enjoy a juicy, smoky, and perfectly seasoned turkey breast that everyone will love!
For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, stay tuned for more!
