How Long to Smoke a Juicy Turkey Breast on a Pellet Grill

Smoking turkey breast on a pellet grill results in incredibly moist, flavorful meat infused with sweet, smoky aroma. While it may seem intimidating at first, smoking turkey breast is actually quite easy with the right pellet grill and only takes 2-5 hours depending on the size. In this article, I’ll walk you through the simple steps for preparing juicy, tender smoked turkey breast on a pellet grill every time.

Choosing the Right Turkey Breast

The first important step is selecting the right turkey breast. When using a pellet grill, smaller turkey breasts work best since turkey is a lean meat without much fat. Larger turkey breasts can overcook on the outside before the inside is fully cooked. Look for turkey breasts of normal size, about 2-5 pounds.

For added moisture, you can opt for turkey breast with the bone in or go for double breasts still attached to the breastbone. The bone helps retain moisture as the turkey smokes Avoid pre-brined “enhanced” turkey from the store since you don’t know what’s in the solution injected into the meat. Instead, choose raw turkey breast to season yourself.

Preparing Turkey Breast for the Pellet Grill

Proper preparation is key for tender, juicy smoked turkey. I recommend dry brining the breast 12-24 hours before smoking. Simply coat the breast with kosher salt and pepper and refrigerate overnight on a rack over a pan. The salt draws out moisture and enhances the turkey’s flavor.

If short on time, you can skip dry brining. Instead, slip softened butter under the skin or add a pan of liquid like water or cider to the grill for extra moisture. Removing excess skin and fat also helps the turkey cook evenly.

Smoking Times and Temperatures

The ideal temperature for smoking turkey breast on a pellet grill is between 225-250°F. Any higher may cause the exterior to burn before the inside is fully cooked. Here are general pellet grill smoking times for turkey breast:

• 1-2 lb breast: 1.5 – 2 hours
• 3-4 lb breast: 2.5 – 3 hours
• 5-6 lb breast: 3 – 4 hours
• 7-8 lb breast: 3.5 – 5 hours

Bone-in breasts may take a little longer than boneless. Rely more on internal temperature than time, pulling the breast when it reaches 165°F.

Smoking Tips for Maximum Juiciness

• Brining ensures seasoned, moist meat. Make a simple saltwater brine or use spices and herbs.

• Rub the breast with a dry seasoning blend to form a tasty bark during smoking. Sweet and savory rubs work well.

• Marinate for up to 24 hours before smoking to impart flavor. Rosemary, thyme, and sage suit turkey nicely.

• Choose fruitwood pellets like apple, maple, or cherry for mild, sweet smoke that complements turkey.

• Resist opening the grill, which releases heat and smoke. Use a wireless thermometer to monitor temp.

• Let the breast rest 15-20 minutes before slicing for redistribution of juices.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps for smoking juicy turkey breast on your pellet grill:

1. Rinse and dry the breast. Apply any marinades or dry rubs. Allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat your pellet grill to 225-250°F using favorite wood pellets like apple or cherry.

3. Once preheated, add more pellets to produce smoke. Give the grill 5-10 minutes to build smoke.

4. Place the breast skin-side up on grill grates. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part without hitting bone.

5. Close the lid to trap smoke. Maintain the temperature between 225-250°F.

6. Check the thermometer periodically. Expect roughly 25 minutes per pound of turkey.

7. Once 165°F is reached, tent with foil and rest 20 minutes before slicing. The temperature will increase 5-10 degrees.

8. Serve the tender smoked turkey breast warm on its own or in sandwiches, salads, and more!

Delicious Ways to Use Smoked Turkey

Smoked turkey breast makes for amazing meals beyond just lunch and dinner. Here are some tasty ways to use it:

• Slice for sandwiches, wraps, tacos, and pitas

• Dice or shred for hearty casseroles, soups, and chilis

• Toss with greens and veggies for main-dish salads

• Pair with classic BBQ sides like beans, coleslaw, and cornbread

• Top with gravy for a smoky twist on holiday dinners

• Cube for an easy high-protein snack or meal prep

Leftover smoked turkey will keep refrigerated for 4-5 days. You can also slice and freeze it for longer storage. Smoked turkey breast offers tons of versatility in the kitchen.

With the right pellet grill, smoking tender, juicy turkey breast at home couldn’t be easier. Allow 2-5 hours depending on size, and use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked results. Dry brining infuses flavor and moisture, as do herb rubs and marinades. Letting the breast rest before serving ensures the most tender texture. Follow these tips for outstanding smoked turkey breast hot off your pellet grill.