Barbecued Turkey With Herbs
Juicy turkey infused with fresh herbs, perfect for outdoor grilling and gatherings, offering a smoky, aromatic flavor that pleases family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 (9 to 13 lb.) turkey, thawed ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage or 2 tsp. dried sage, crushed ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme or 1 tsp. dried thyme, crushed ⓘ
- Salt and coarsely ground pepper to taste ⓘ
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary or 2 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or 1/4 cup dried parsley ⓘ
Instructions
- Remove the neck and giblets from the turkey.
- Rinse the turkey, drain, and pat dry.
- In a small bowl, combine chopped fresh sage, thyme, chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh parsley, vegetable oil, salt, and coarsely ground pepper to taste.
- Brush the cavities and outer surface of the turkey generously with the herb mixture.
- Pull the skin over the neck and secure with a skewer.
- Fold the wings behind the back and tie the legs and tail together with kitchen twine.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the thickest part of the thigh, ensuring it is not touching bone.
- Arrange medium-hot briquets around a large drip pan on the grill.
- Cover the grill and cook the turkey for 11 to 13 minutes per pound, or until the meat thermometer reaches 185°F, basting occasionally with the herb mixture.
- Add more briquets as necessary to maintain heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider using a mix of fresh and dried herbs based on availability. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried ones work well; just use one-third the amount. To ensure even cooking, let the turkey rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. Using a meat thermometer is crucial to avoid undercooking, especially with larger birds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued turkey with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad. For a unique touch, pair with a seasonal side like S'More Mountain Mix for a delightful contrast. You can also slice the turkey for sandwiches, adding cranberry sauce for a delicious twist. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover turkey should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in vacuum-sealed bags. When reheating, place turkey slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water in the oven at 325°F until heated through, ensuring it remains juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Turkey With Herbs contains roughly 77 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 602mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a smaller turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a smaller turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, aiming for 11 to 13 minutes per pound. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 185°F for safety. If using a turkey under 9 lbs, check it around the 2-hour mark, as it may cook faster.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil for a richer flavor, or use melted butter for a more traditional taste. If you're looking for a healthier option, avocado oil works well too, providing a high smoke point suitable for grilling.
How can I ensure my turkey is juicy and not dry?
To keep the turkey juicy, make sure to baste it periodically with the herb mixture during grilling. Additionally, cooking it at the right temperature and using a meat thermometer will help avoid overcooking. Letting the turkey rest after grilling before carving also helps the juices redistribute.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).