- Why is it dry?
- Overcooked. Turkey breast is safe at 165°F, but pull it at 160°F (71°C) as it rises during rest.
- Sear the skin?
- Not needed; sugary glaze might burn. Aim for caramelized soft glaze.
Honey-Lemon Glazed Smoked Turkey Breast
Turkey breast is delicate BBQ; lean and prone to drying. The secret is gentle heat and a protective glaze. The honey-lemon sauce acts as a shield, keeping meat juicy while adding a zesty brightness to the smoke.
Ingredients
3.5
lbs
Turkey Breast (Whole, Skin-on)
2
tsp
Coarse Salt
1
tsp
Black Pepper
1
tsp
Garlic Powder
2
tsp
Smoked Paprika
1
tsp
Ground Cumin
1
tbsp
Brown Sugar
2
tbsp
Worcestershire Sauce
3
tbsp
Honey
3
tbsp
Fresh Lemon Juice
1
tsp
BBQ Sauce (just a splash)
2
tbsp
Olive Oil
1
lb
Wood Chips (Apple/Cherry)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Smoker
- Meat Thermometer (Critical!)
- Brush
- Foil
Allergen Information
Soy (Worcestershire)
Fish (Worcestershire)
Instructions
1
✓
Oil meat and apply spice rub.
Tip: Adherence.
2
✓
Rest 30 mins.
Tip: Absorption.
3
✓
Smoke at 225-250°F (110-120°C) until 160°F (71°C).
Tip: Watch temp closely!
4
✓
Mix glaze (honey, lemon, etc).
Tip: Acid-Sweet balance.
5
✓
Glaze at 155°F, cook to finish.
Tip: Set the glaze.
6
✓
Rest 15 mins.
Tip: Juiciness.
7
✓
Slice thin.
Tip: Sandwich ready.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 3.5 lbs Turkey Breast (Whole, Skin-on)
- 2 tsp Coarse Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 3 tbsp Honey
- 3 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 tsp BBQ Sauce (just a splash)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 lb Wood Chips (Apple/Cherry)