Why Grill Your Turkey
Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition, but that doesn’t mean your turkey has to follow the same old routine. Grilling your turkey is a game-changer, bringing flavor and excitement to the centerpiece of your holiday table. Not only does it enhance the natural taste with a subtle smoky finish that an oven can’t replicate, but it also allows you to mix up your menu and free up kitchen space for sides, pies, and all the other holiday favorites.
Choosing and Prepping the Right Turkey
The journey to a perfectly grilled turkey begins with choosing the right size and prepping it carefully. Plan for about one to one and a half pounds per person to ensure everyone gets enough. If your turkey is frozen, allow ample time for thawing in the refrigerator; larger birds will need several days, so start early. Once the turkey is thawed, remove the giblets, rinse, and pat it dry. Brining helps add flavor and moisture, but you can take it a step further by injecting the turkey as well. Injecting with melted butter, broth, or your favorite seasoning blend allows the flavor to reach deeper into the meat for an even juicier and more flavorful turkey. Trussing helps it cook evenly, and adding herbs and vegetables inside the cavity infuses it with aromatic flavor.
Here are some recipes to inspire your Thanksgiving turkey preparations:
Maple-Brined Turkey with Bacon Gravy (Weber)
This turkey is brined in a fragrant blend of maple syrup and herbs, then smoked to perfection for tender, juicy meat. Finished with a rich bacon gravy, it offers a sweet-savory twist that elevates your holiday table.
Grilled Molasses BBQ Turkey (National Turkey Federation)
Infused with a smoky, spicy barbecue sauce made from molasses, chipotle, and ancho chile, this turkey is grilled to juicy perfection. A bold, flavorful centerpiece that’s perfect for an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast.
Peach Glazed Roasted Turkey (National Turkey Federation)
A sweet glaze of peach preserves and bourbon brings this turkey to life. Slow-roasted on the grill and basting with its own juices, it delivers tender, aromatic meat with a hint of fruity elegance.
Simple Grilled Turkey
For a classic, no-fuss approach, this turkey lets natural flavors shine. Seasoned under the skin, grilled over indirect heat, and finished with optional wood smoke, it’s juicy, golden, and perfect for a straightforward, crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving.
Setting Up the Grill
When it comes to cooking, setting up the grill properly is key. Preheat your grill to medium-low for indirect cooking and place a drip pan filled with chicken stock beneath the turkey to keep it moist. For a subtle smoky note, add wood chips to your grill. Grilling time generally ranges from 12 to 15 minutes per pound, with internal temperatures of 170℉ in the thighs and 165℉ in the breast signaling doneness. Once cooked, allow it to rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving. This step locks in the juices and ensures tender, flavorful meat.
Carving & Serving Like a Pro
Carving and serving your turkey is just as important as cooking it. Resting before slicing is essential, and efficient carving will feed hungry guests quickly. After resting the turkey, start carving with the legs and thighs, then move to the breast. This order makes carving easier and ensures each piece is served at its juiciest. Slice the thighs against the grain and the breast into even, tender pieces for a beautiful presentation and quick serving. Generous portions ensure everyone gets a hearty helping of the centerpiece of your meal.
More Ways to Cook Your Turkey
For those inspired by the smoked turkey recipes above, it’s worth reemphasizing how easy and rewarding this method can be. Smoking adds rich, deep flavor with minimal effort, and you don’t need special equipment to do it. Your gas grill can double as a smoker with the right setup. Alternatively, deep-frying produces a crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior. Be sure to follow proper fryer precautions to ensure a successful and safe holiday meal.
Tips to Make This Thanksgiving Unforgettable
Be sure to baste your turkey every 20 to 30 minutes to keep it moist and make sure you have enough propane on hand for the entire cook using our Propane Finder. It’s also smart to keep a spare tank ready for longer cooking times so you can focus on the food and family without interruptions. With Blue Rhino fueling your feast, you can relax and enjoy the meal, knowing your turkey and your holiday are in good hands.
Grilling your Thanksgiving turkey adds flavor, excitement, and a touch of smoky magic to your holiday spread. Step outside this year and make it the centerpiece everyone will remember.
Published: 2025.11.06