Why spatchcock a turkey? Taking out the backbone and flattening the bird makes for a quicker and more even cooking experience.
This spatchcock turkey recipe features a few of our favorite BBQ spice blends and has options for smoked turkey or grilled turkey. It's perfect for a non-traditional Thanksgiving table or a summer backyard barbecue!
Step 1Brine turkey (optional): if brining, prepare brine using Brining Spice instructions and brine turkey for 1 hour per pound in the refrigerator.
Step 2To spatchcock and season the turkey: pat turkey dry. Use kitchen shears to cut turkey lengthwise along either side of backbone and remove the backbone. Open turkey and place it breast side up on a cutting board. Use the palms of your hands to push down on the breast bone, breaking it so the turkey will lie flat. Brush turkey all over with 'Cue Glue if using. Sprinkle all sides with salt & pepper then choice of seasoning.
Step 3To smoke the turkey: prepare smoker with wood of choice and preheat to 225 to 250 degrees. Place turkey in the smoker, breast side up, and smoke until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast and thigh reaches 165 degrees; about 3 to 4 hours depending on the size of the turkey. To finish on the grill if desired, set the smoked turkey over direct heat (300 to 350 degrees) for 5 to 7 min. on both sides. Let turkey rest for 30 min. before slicing.
Step 4Optional, to grill the turkey instead: follow the same method but keep the heat to one side of the grill and set the turkey, breast side up, on the opposite side so it cooks over indirect heat. If you want to add smoke flavor to the turkey, use a few wood chunks on the charcoal or a smoker box with wood chips on a gas grill. Set the smoking element over the direct heat side of the grill. Turn turkey every 45 min. or so for even browning.
Recipe Notes
*For juicier turkey, brine the turkey for 1 hour per pound before smoking it; use our Brining Spice and follow our guide to how to brine a turkey. Savory’s ‘Cue Glue helps BBQ seasoning stick better to smoked and grilled proteins and seal in flavor. When preparing and cooking a turkey, be sure to follow proper food safety and handling guidelines.
All-Purpose Cooking
Grilling & BBQ
