Master the art of grilling a juicy, flavorful turkey with this detailed guide. From preparation to grilling techniques, we’ve got you covered
Grilling a turkey on a gas grill is a fantastic way to add a smoky, delicious flavor to your holiday feast. This method is not only convenient but also allows for precise temperature control ensuring a perfectly cooked bird. Whether you’re a seasoned grilling veteran or a novice, this guide will walk you through the entire process, from prep to serving, so you can impress your guests with a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Ingredients and Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to embark on your grilling adventure:
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-pound) whole turkey, neck and giblets removed
- 3 cups water
- 2 cups cold butter, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons seasoned salt (such as LAWRY’S®)
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 2 cubes chicken bouillon granules
Equipment:
- Gas grill
- Roasting pan
- Aluminum foil
- Basting brush
- Thermometer
- Injector (optional)
Preparation
Before you fire up the grill, let’s get the turkey ready:
- Preheat your grill to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan with the breast facing up.
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Stir in butter, seasoned salt, pepper, and bouillon cubes until butter melts and bouillon dissolves.
- Draw 30 milliliters of liquid into a marinade injector (optional); inject all over the turkey. Pour the remaining liquid into the bottom of the roasting pan.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil.
Grilling the Turkey
Now, it’s time to get grilling:
- Place the roasting pan on the grill and turn the center burner to medium-low. Close the grill. Ideally, you want the temperature to be about 425 to 450 degrees F during cook time, so adjust accordingly with your grill.
- Grill the turkey for 2.5 to 3 hours, checking the bird every 30 minutes or so. Baste the turkey with the pan juices every time you check it.
- An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Once the turkey reaches this temperature, remove it from the grill.
- Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips to help you achieve grilling perfection:
- Use a brined turkey for extra moisture and flavor.
- Add wood chips to your grill for a smoky flavor.
- Don’t overcook the turkey! It’s better to err on the side of undercooked, as you can always cook it a little longer if needed.
- Let the turkey rest before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Grilling a turkey on a gas grill is a rewarding experience that allows you to create a delicious and impressive centerpiece for your holiday table. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to grilling a turkey that will have your guests raving.
Happy grilling!
How Long to Grill Your Turkey
- Make sure you are on track to hit 165 degrees by checking the turkey’s temperature halfway through the cooking process, three quarters of the way through, and then when you believe it is done. This will enable you to keep an eye on the turkey and ensure that it doesn’t get overdone.
- It will take longer to cook the more you open the lid, so practice patience, unwind, and watch more football.
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- Utilize wood chips when grilling a turkey on a gas grill. I prefer to use one handful of hickory and two handfuls of cherry. Before using the wood chips, soak them in water or beer for a minimum of 30 minutes to two hours. If your grill has a smoker box built in, you can use it to store the wood chips.
- Place a drip pan with two to three liters of water beneath the turkey placement on the flavorizer bars. You should only use one liter of water if you intend to use the drippings in a gravy.
- In order to prevent the turkey from being directly over a lit burner, set up the grill for indirect heat. Preheat your grill for 10-15 minutes before adding your turkey. Get our temperature and pound guide here.
- If the temperature where you live is going to be low, as it will be in the Midwest, cooking a turkey will require a few more minutes per pound.
How to Grill a Turkey on a Gas Grill
FAQ
How long does it take to grill a turkey on a gas grill?
When grilling a turkey do you cover it with foil?
Do you flip a turkey when grilling?
How do you grill a turkey on a Weber gas grill?
Can You Grill a Turkey on a gas grill?
When grilling a turkey on a gas grill you will want to use wood chips. I like to use 2 handfuls of cherry and 1 handful of hickory . Soak the wood chips in water or beer before you use them for anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. You can put the wood chips in a smoker box or in a built in smoker box if your grill has one.
How long to cook a Turkey on a gas grill?
The cooking time for a turkey on a gas grill will vary depending on the size of the turkey, the temperature of the grill, and the desired degree of doneness. For a general guideline, plan on cooking a turkey for 15 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, a 10-pound turkey will take about 3 hours to cook.
How do you cook a Turkey on a grill?
Start by preheating your grill to 350° F. Stage One – On the side of the grill that is not on (not hot), place the turkey on its side so the wings and thighs are touching the grill and the legs are pointing to the back of the grill. Close cover. Allow cooking for 48 minutes, but monitor the grill temperature, so it doesn’t get too hot or too cool.
What temperature do you cook a Turkey on a gas grill?
An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove turkey from the grill, cover, and let rest in a warm area for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Turkey cooked on a gas grill comes out juicy and tender with a crispy brown skin.