How to Grill a Turkey

Updated at: 06/12/2024

Grilling a turkey? Sounds daunting, but this video proves it's achievable, even fun! From prepping the bird (yes, even cleaning the sink is part of the process!) to mastering the art of indirect heat grilling, this guide covers it all. Learn the crucial steps for perfectly crisped skin, juicy meat, and avoiding common grilling pitfalls like not letting your grill cool down before placing the turkey. We’ll delve into the importance of monitoring internal temperature with a meat thermometer (and even explore the quirks of a less-than-perfect meat probe!). You'll also discover handy tips for handling the hot bird post-grilling, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Forget dry, overcooked turkey – this video is your secret weapon for achieving Thanksgiving perfection (or any day perfection!). The video shares insightful advice, including tips for controlling temperature, dealing with unexpected challenges, and even how to gracefully carve the finished product. Ready to take your grilling game to the next level and impress your guests with a deliciously grilled turkey? Then let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. Don't rely on visual cues alone.
  • Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw turkey. Cross-contamination can cause foodborne illness.
  • Let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes after grilling before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Clean your sink thoroughly.
    • Inspect the turkey for size and giblets. Ensure it fits your grill.
    • Review cooking instructions and check for giblets and extras (ice chunks).
    • Rinse the turkey and prepare it for grilling (tuck skin, reconnect legs).
    Rinse the turkey and prepare it for grilling (tuck skin, reconnect legs).Rinse the turkey and prepare it for grilling (tuck skin, reconnect legs).
    Preparation
    • Change gloves after rinsing the turkey.
    Change gloves after rinsing the turkey.
    Preparation

  2. Seasoning and Grilling Setup

    • Season the turkey with oil, salt, pepper, and garlic.
    • Prepare the grill (let it cool down to desired temperature before placing the turkey).
    • Place the drip pan in the grill.
    • Position the turkey on the grill grate and close the lid.
    Position the turkey on the grill grate and close the lid.Position the turkey on the grill grate and close the lid.Position the turkey on the grill grate and close the lid.Position the turkey on the grill grate and close the lid.
    Seasoning and Grilling Setup

  3. Cooking and Monitoring

    • Adjust grill vents to maintain temperature around 350°F.
    • The video shows adjustments due to not pre-cooling the grill).
    • Check coals and reposition as necessary for even cooking.
    • Continue grilling until the turkey timer pops and the meat thermometer indicates it's done.
    Continue grilling until the turkey timer pops and the meat thermometer indicates it's done.Continue grilling until the turkey timer pops and the meat thermometer indicates it's done.Continue grilling until the turkey timer pops and the meat thermometer indicates it's done.Continue grilling until the turkey timer pops and the meat thermometer indicates it's done.
    Cooking and Monitoring

  4. Turkey Removal and Carving

    • Remove the turkey using tongs.
    • The video suggests watching another video for carving instructions).
    Carve the turkey. (Note: The video suggests watching another video for carving instructions).Carve the turkey. (Note: The video suggests watching another video for carving instructions).
    Turkey Removal and Carving

Read more: Easy Charcoal Grill BBQ Ribs Recipe

Tips

  • Let your grill cool down to the desired temperature before placing the turkey.
  • Avoid spritzing the turkey with water, as it can make the skin chewy.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Underestimating Cooking Time

Reason: Turkeys take much longer to cook than most people expect, especially larger ones. Using a meat thermometer is crucial.
Solution: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and breast.

2. Overcrowding the Grill

Reason: Grilling a turkey requires ample space for even heat distribution. Cramped quarters lead to uneven cooking and flare-ups.
Solution: Ensure there's enough space between the turkey and the grill grates, and consider using a roasting rack to elevate it.

3. Forgetting to Baste

Reason: Basting keeps the turkey moist and adds flavor. Neglecting this step can result in a dry bird.
Solution: Regularly baste the turkey with butter, broth, or a flavorful marinade throughout the grilling process.

FAQs

How long does it take to grill a turkey?
Grilling time depends on the turkey's size and your grill's temperature. A 12-pound turkey will generally take 3-4 hours at a moderate heat (around 350°F). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
What's the best way to prevent the turkey from drying out?
Brining the turkey for several hours before grilling helps retain moisture. Also, maintain a consistent temperature and baste the turkey regularly with pan juices or a flavorful broth. Avoid opening the grill lid too frequently.
Can I grill a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey?
Yes! Grilling a turkey breast is much faster and easier. It will typically take about 1-1.5 hours. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through to 165°F.