How to Cook Turkey Breast on Big Green Egg

Are you ready to impress your guests with a perfectly cooked turkey breast? Look no further than the Big Green Egg. With its versatile cooking capabilities and smoky flavor, this grill is the ultimate tool for cooking a tender and juicy turkey breast.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of:

1. Selecting the right turkey breast
2. Preparing the Big Green Egg
3. Seasoning and preparing the turkey breast
4. Cooking it to perfection

Get ready to elevate your turkey game to a whole new level.

Selecting the Right Turkey Breast

When selecting the right turkey breast, it’s important to consider the size and weight of the bird. The size of the turkey breast will determine the cooking time and the number of servings it can provide. A general rule of thumb is to allow about 1 pound of turkey breast per person. If you’re feeding a large crowd, you may need to opt for a bigger turkey breast or consider getting multiple smaller ones.

Once you have chosen the right size, it’s time to think about marinating options. Marinating the turkey breast can add flavor and moisture to the meat. You can use a variety of marinades, such as citrus-based marinades, herb-infused marinades, or even a simple combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Allow the turkey breast to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Now let’s talk about cooking techniques. One popular method for cooking turkey breast is grilling it on a Big Green Egg. This versatile ceramic cooker allows for precise temperature control and imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the meat. Preheat the Big Green Egg to 350°F and place the turkey breast directly on the grill grate. Cook the turkey breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes per pound. Remember to flip the turkey breast halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Preparing the Big Green Egg

Before you start, make sure you’ve got all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Now that you have your turkey breast ready, it’s time to prepare your Big Green Egg for optimal cooking. Follow these steps to ensure your grill is in top condition and ready to go:

1. Clean the grill: Start by removing any leftover ash or debris from the previous use. Use a brush or scraper to clean the grates thoroughly.

2. Check the gasket: Inspect the gasket around the lid of your Big Green Egg. Make sure it is intact and in good condition. If it is worn out or damaged, consider replacing it for better heat retention.

3. Adjust the airflow: Open the bottom vent and the top damper to allow for proper airflow. This will help regulate the temperature inside the grill and ensure even cooking.

4. Preheat the grill: Light your charcoal and let it burn until it reaches the desired temperature. This will usually take about 15-20 minutes. Use a thermometer to monitor the heat and adjust the airflow if needed.

Taking care of your Big Green Egg is essential for maintaining its performance and ensuring delicious results. By following these steps, you can set up your grill for optimal cooking and enjoy a perfectly cooked turkey breast.

Seasoning and Preparing the Turkey Breast

Now that you’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients and equipment, it’s time to season and prepare your turkey breast for cooking on the Big Green Egg. One important step in preparing the turkey breast is brining. Brining helps to enhance the flavor and juiciness of the meat. You can use a simple brine solution of salt, sugar, and water, or you can experiment with different flavorings such as herbs, spices, and citrus fruits.

To season the turkey breast, you can use a variety of spices and herbs to add flavor. A popular combination is a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. You can also add some fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for an extra burst of flavor. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to cover all sides.

Once the turkey breast is seasoned, it’s time to decide on the cooking method. The Big Green Egg offers versatility in cooking, allowing you to choose from different methods such as roasting, smoking, or grilling. Each method will result in a slightly different flavor and texture, so it’s up to your personal preference.

Here is a table summarizing the different cooking methods and their characteristics:

Choose the cooking method that suits your taste and follow the appropriate instructions for that method. Happy cooking!

Cooking the Turkey Breast on the Big Green Egg

Once you have seasoned and prepared your turkey breast, you can choose from different cooking methods on the Big Green Egg to achieve your desired flavor and texture. Here are four cooking techniques to consider, all of which allow for excellent temperature control:

1. Smoking: Smoking your turkey breast on the Big Green Egg adds a delicious smoky flavor. Set the temperature to 225°F (107°C) and use wood chips for that authentic smoky taste. This method may take longer, but the result is worth it.

2. Roasting: Roasting your turkey breast on the Big Green Egg gives it a crispy skin and juicy interior. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Basting with butter or oil will enhance the flavor and help keep it moist.

3. Grilling: Grilling your turkey breast on the Big Green Egg gives it a nice charred exterior and tender interior. Set the temperature to medium-high and cook for about 15-20 minutes per pound, flipping halfway through. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

4. Searing: Searing your turkey breast on the Big Green Egg creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside moist. Set the temperature to high and sear the turkey breast for a couple of minutes on each side. Then, reduce the temperature to medium and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

No matter which cooking technique you choose, the Big Green Egg allows for precise temperature control, ensuring your turkey breast is cooked to perfection.

Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Turkey Breast

For a perfectly cooked turkey breast, you’ll want to ensure that you let the meat rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful turkey.

But before you even get to the resting stage, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to make sure your turkey breast turns out amazing.

First, consider brining your turkey breast before cooking. Brining involves soaking the meat in a saltwater solution, which helps to enhance the flavor and moisture of the turkey. You can experiment with different brining techniques, such as adding herbs, spices, or even fruit juices to the brine for added flavor.

When it comes to carving and serving the turkey breast, there are a few things to keep in mind. Start by carefully removing the breast from the bone, using a sharp knife. Make sure to slice against the grain to ensure tender slices. To serve, arrange the slices on a platter, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to cook turkey breast on the Big Green Egg, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with a delicious and perfectly cooked meal.

By selecting the right turkey breast, preparing the Big Green Egg, seasoning the turkey breast, and cooking it to perfection, you can ensure a mouthwatering and tender result.

Remember to follow the tips and tricks mentioned in this article to achieve the best possible outcome.

Enjoy your tasty turkey breast!