Marinated Wild Turkey
Juicy turkey breast marinated in savory soy sauce and wrapped in crispy bacon, perfect for smoky grilling enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak green hickory wood in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Marinate the turkey breast in soy sauce or similar steak sauce for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the grill and prepare it for indirect heat using hickory wood for smoke flavor.
- Wrap the marinated turkey breast with the bacon slices, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Place the wrapped turkey on the grill over indirect heat and add soaked hickory wood for smoking.
- Grill for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from grill and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, try marinating the turkey breast overnight instead of just 2 hours. If you don't have soy sauce, a mix of Worcestershire sauce and a bit of brown sugar can work as a substitute. To amp up the smokiness, consider using mesquite wood chips along with hickory. Make sure to monitor the grill temperature to avoid overcooking, as turkey can dry out easily.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the turkey breast and serve it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Tasty Black-Eyed Peas for a hearty side. Consider drizzling a light sauce made from the grill drippings over the turkey, and serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover marinated wild turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the turkey in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marinated Wild Turkey contains roughly 182 calories, with 25g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2434mg per serving (106% 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 different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or pork tenderloin as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time, as chicken may require less time on the grill, while pork might need a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
What can I do if I don't have a grill?
If you don't have a grill, you can use an oven with a broiler setting. Wrap the bacon around the marinated turkey and place it on a baking sheet. Broil on high for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
The best way to check if the turkey is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey breast; it should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to 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).