This smoked turkey breast is soaked in brine, then coated in homemade spice rub and cooked on a smoker until it is tender and juicy. The absolute best way to enjoy turkey breast with perfect results every time!

When Thanksgiving rolls around, I prefer to make my turkey on a smoker so that there’s plenty of room in the oven for side dishes such as candied yams and cornbread dressing.

Every year for the holidays, I make a smoked turkey breast for smaller gatherings. It’s perfectly seasoned, simple to make and always gets rave reviews from family and friends!

How do you make smoked turkey breast?

This recipe starts with a simple turkey brine that’s made with apple cider, citrus, herbs, salt and garlic. The turkey breast needs to sit in the brine for at least 8 hours to absorb all the flavors. Pat the turkey breast dry, then coat it in homemade spice rub. Place the turkey in a smoker and cook at low heat until the turkey is cooked through. Slice, then serve and enjoy.

Tips for the perfect turkey

I use a bone-in, double turkey breast which is great for about 6-8 people. If you’re looking to feed less people, you can use a single breast.
The turkey should stay in the brine for at least 8 hours, but no more than 12 hours or it can get overly salty.
Garnish the finished dish with fresh herbs and fruit for an elegant presentation.
Smoked turkey breast will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave, or place a covered pan of turkey in the oven at 325 degrees F until warmed through.
I highly recommend using my homemade BBQ rub recipe to coat your turkey, it’s loaded with flavor. If you don’t want to make your own seasoning, you can purchase your favorite prepared BBQ rub instead.
It’s fine to use a fresh or frozen turkey, just make sure it’s completely thawed before you place it in the brine.

How long does it take to smoke turkey breast?

It typically takes about 30 minutes per pound to smoke a turkey breast. A standard size for a turkey breast is around 6 pounds, which means you’ll be looking at about 3 hours of cooking time. It’s best to go by the actual internal temperature of the meat versus the time in the smoker for most accurate results.

What type of wood is best to smoke turkey?

I typically use apple wood to smoke poultry, as it imparts a mild and sweet flavor that compliments the delicate meat. Apple wood chips are readily available in mostgrocery or home improvement stores. Other great choices are cherry wood or hickory chips.

When is a smoked turkey breast done?

A turkey breast is done when a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat registers 165 degrees F. I use a digital probe thermometer that I leave in the turkey while it smokes so that I can monitor the progress with a temperature remote from inside the house. It’s important to watch the temperature closely so that the meat does not overcook!

How much turkey per person?

You will want to plan to have one pound of turkey per person. If you’re looking to have a lot of leftovers, purchase one and a half pounds per person.

Once you try this smoked turkey breast, you’ll find yourself making it for the holidays every year!

More Thanksgiving recipes to try