How to Smoke A Turkey in A Gas Smoker
This flavorful smoked turkey recipe teaches you how to make turkey in a gas smoker. Made with a blend of herbs, spices, and smoke from your choice of wood chips, this turkey is great for any holiday or celebration!
Equipment
Ingredients
- One whole turkey (approximately 12-14 lbs)
- 2 cups your preferred wood chips (e.g., hickory,applewood)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp paprika
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) for stuffing the turkey cavity
- 1 large onion , quartered (for stuffing the turkey cavity)
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
- Prep the Smoker: Preheat your gas smoker to 225 degrees F (107 degrees C). While the smoker is heating, soak your chosen wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
- Prep the Turkey: Remove the turkey's innards, rinse the turkey well, and pat it dry. Brush the turkey with olive oil, then rub it all over with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Stuff the Turkey: Stuff the turkey's cavity with the fresh herbs and quartered onion.
- Smoke the Turkey: Place the turkey in the smoker. Fill the smoker's water tray with the chicken or turkey broth, then add the soaked, drained wood chips to the smoker's wood chip tray.
- Cooking Time: Close the smoker. The turkey should smoke for about 30-40 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (73 degrees C) when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the breast and thigh. Keep in mind, it's essential to maintain the smoker's temperature at 225 degrees F (107 degrees C) throughout the smoking process. You may need to add more wood chips and broth as needed.
- Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey reaches the correct internal temperature, remove it from the smoker. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Serve: Carve the turkey and serve it warm. Enjoy!
Notes
Please note that smoking a turkey requires attention to detail and patience. Always ensure that the turkey is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (73 degrees C) for food safety. The smoker should be checked regularly to maintain the correct temperature and ensure there is enough wood chips and liquid in their respective trays. Smoking a turkey can take several hours, so plan accordingly.
Nutrition
Calories: 250kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!