The moment I lifted the lid off the grill, a wave of smoky, savory scents enveloped me, invoking memories of warm summer evenings spent with family. There’s something about Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey that whispers “celebration” in every juicy bite, making it perfect for everything from backyard parties to holiday feasts. By using the spatch cocking technique, I discovered a way to not just speed up the cooking process, but also ensure every piece is bathed in flavors from that rich barbecue spice mix.
No need to tie up your oven – this turkey cooks to perfection right on the grill, offering a gorgeous golden-brown skin and meat so tender it’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we create a dish that captures the essence of outdoor grilling while filling your home with the warmth of togetherness and mouthwatering delight!
Why love Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe uses a straightforward brining and spatchcocking technique, making it easy for anyone to master.
Irresistible Flavor: The barbecue spice mix creates an explosion of taste, infusing the turkey with a delightful smokiness.
Fast Cooking: With spatchcocking, you’ll save time while still achieving a perfectly cooked turkey that impresses everyone.
Crowd-pleaser Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this dish caters to both turkey lovers and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends or wood chips for a signature twist!
Get ready for a meal that celebrates both flavor and togetherness, making every bite a cherished memory.
Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey Ingredients
For the Turkey
• Turkey – The star of the dish; make sure it’s completely thawed and ready for brining.
For the Brine
• Salt – Essential for moisture retention; kosher salt is a great choice for even distribution.
• Sugar – Balances the saltiness and enhances browning; brown sugar adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• Water – The base of your brine; you’ll want enough to fully submerge the turkey.
For the Barbecue Spice Mix
• Paprika – Imparts color and a mild sweetness; consider using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Adds an aromatic kick that pairs beautifully with the turkey.
• Brown Sugar – A component of the spice mix to complement the savory notes; feel free to adjust to taste.
Optional Aromatics
• Fresh Herbs – Rosemary or thyme bring a fragrant touch; the more, the merrier!
• Garlic Cloves – Smashed or whole for an extra flavor burst during brining.
• Citrus Peels – Lemon or orange peels can brighten the brine with a zesty twist when in season.
Elevate your Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey experience by gathering these essential ingredients and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey
- Prepare the brine: In a large pot, combine water, salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar fully dissolve. For an extra layer of flavor, add your choice of aromatics like fresh herbs, garlic, or citrus peels.
- Brine the turkey: Carefully submerge the thawed turkey in the brine, ensuring it’s completely covered. Let it soak for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor.
- Rinse and dry: Once brining is complete, remove the turkey and give it a good rinse under cold water to wash off excess brine. Pat it dry gently with paper towels.
- Spatchcock the turkey: Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut alongside the turkey’s spine to remove it. Flatten the turkey by pressing down on the breastbone—this helps it cook more evenly.
- Season with BBQ spices: Generously coat both sides of the turkey with your homemade barbecue spice mix. Make sure it’s evenly coated for the best flavor experience!
- Preheat the grill: Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, around 350°F. This ensures that your turkey will achieve that delightful crispy skin.
- Grill the turkey: Place the turkey skin-side down on the grill grates. Grill for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reads 165°F and the skin is beautifully golden brown.
- Rest before carving: Once done, remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice juicy and delicious!
Optional: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete summer meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey
- Brining Time: Aim for at least 1 hour but up to 12 hours for deeper flavor; avoid shorter brining to prevent blandness.
- Spatchcocking Safely: Use kitchen shears for clean cuts along the spine, and always exercise caution to avoid injury.
- Monitor Temperature: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F; this prevents overcooking and dryness.
- Flipping Technique: When grilling, flip the turkey halfway through cooking to achieve even browning and to enhance that smoky flavor.
- Lid Closed: Keep the grill lid closed while cooking for better smoke infusion and to speed up the cooking process.
Enjoy your Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey with these expert tips for the best results!
Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your turkey and add a personal touch to your barbecue experience!
- Citrus Herb Blend: Swap the barbecue spice mix for a zesty citrus herb blend. This fresh approach lightens the flavor profile while still enhancing richness.
- Wood Chip Flavors: Experiment with various wood chips like hickory or apple for smoke. Each type imparts a unique twist, bringing excitement to your grilling adventure.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix for a spicy version that teases the taste buds and warms the soul.
- Honey Glaze: Brush the turkey with a mixture of honey and soy sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet, caramelized finish that dazzles.
- Smoky Paprika: Replace regular paprika with smoked paprika in the spice mix. This adds depth and a robust flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Garlic Lovers: Infuse more garlic flavor by adding fresh minced garlic to the barbecue spice mix for an aromatic touch that’s hard to resist.
- Vegan Option: For a plant-based alternative, try using tofu or tempeh marinated in a similar brine and grilled. This makes a wonderful meatless centerpiece!
- Herbaceous Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme directly into the brine for an aromatic twist that elevates the overall flavor of your grilled turkey.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy the endless possibilities of customizing this recipe!
How to Store and Freeze Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the turkey is cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Wrap portions of turkey tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use freezer bags, to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, around 20-30 minutes. Savor the delicious flavors of your Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey!
Shredding: Leftover turkey meat can be shredded and used in sandwiches, salads, or tacos, making for easy and delicious quick meals.
Make Ahead Options
These Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey options are perfect for busy home cooks who want to simplify their meal prep! You can prepare the brine and submerge your turkey in it up to 12 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse. After brining, make sure to rinse and pat the turkey dry, then you can spatchcock it and apply the barbecue spice mix up to 24 hours before grilling. Store the seasoned turkey covered in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. When it’s time to cook, simply preheat your grill, place the turkey on, and grill until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Enjoy tender, flavorful turkey with minimal effort during your busy week!
What to Serve with Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey?
Enhance your turkey experience with these delightful side dishes that bring together flavor, texture, and freshness.
- Grilled Vegetables: Quick and colorful, these veggies provide a smoky contrast to the turkey’s richness, creating a vibrant plate full of nutrition.
- Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, cornbread’s buttery goodness makes for the perfect accompaniment. Slather it in honey for a truly indulgent treat.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, coleslaw balances the savory turkey flavors with its refreshing zest, making it a must-have at any barbecue.
- Garlic Butter Rice: A comforting side that’s aromatic and flavorful; the creaminess of butter perfectly complements the smoky notes of the turkey.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and hearty, potato salad is a picnic staple. Its coolness contrasts beautifully with the warm turkey, adding a delightful bite.
- Berry Salad: A fresh and fruity option that adds brightness to your meal, berries offer a sweet contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Lemonade: Refreshing and tangy, a glass of lemonade serves as an invigorating drink pairing that brightens up the barbecue experience.
Let each of these sides come together with your Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey for an unforgettable feast that celebrates the joys of home-cooked meals!
Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right turkey for brining?
Absolutely! When selecting a turkey, aim for a fresh or thawed bird weighing between 10 to 14 pounds for optimal flavor and cooking time. Look for one that is plump with no dark spots or signs of freezer burn. Fresh, organic turkeys are often more flavorful, so keep that in mind while shopping!
How should I store leftover barbecue turkey?
Once you’ve enjoyed your Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Always allow the turkey to cool to room temperature before sealing it, which helps retain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze leftover turkey, and how?
Of course! To freeze your leftover turkey, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the turkey in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
What if my turkey skin isn’t crisp after grilling?
No worry! If your turkey skin isn’t crispy, it might need a little extra cook time. Ensure the grill lid is closed for the best heat retention and smoke infusion, which helps achieve that golden brown skin. You can also try patting the skin dry before seasoning to reduce moisture or increasing the grill heat slightly if necessary.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, definitely! Be mindful of the sodium levels in the brine, particularly if you or your guests are watching their salt intake; consider reducing the salt in the brine. This recipe is also great for busy families; you can adapt it with different spice blends that cater to your dietary preferences, whether gluten-free or low-sugar.
What should I do if I have leftover brine?
Great question! You could potentially reuse the brine for additional meat or poultry, but it’s best to discard any leftover brine from soaking due to food safety concerns. If you want to create a new batch, consider adding fresh herbs or spices to give the next dish a unique twist!
Barbecue Spice-Brined Grilled Turkey for Juicy Flavor Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the brine: In a large pot, combine water, salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar fully dissolve. For an extra layer of flavor, add your choice of aromatics like fresh herbs, garlic, or citrus peels.
- Brine the turkey: Carefully submerge the thawed turkey in the brine, ensuring it's completely covered. Let it soak for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor.
- Rinse and dry: Once brining is complete, remove the turkey and give it a good rinse under cold water to wash off excess brine. Pat it dry gently with paper towels.
- Spatchcock the turkey: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut alongside the turkey’s spine to remove it. Flatten the turkey by pressing down on the breastbone.
- Season with BBQ spices: Generously coat both sides of the turkey with your homemade barbecue spice mix.
- Preheat the grill: Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, around 350°F.
- Grill the turkey: Place the turkey skin-side down on the grill grates. Grill for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reads 165°F.
- Rest before carving: Once done, remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.