Turkey Breast are Easily Sliced
We are taking a different approach to grilling turkey breast. Most are smoked and can get dry over that long time frame in the smoker. So we are going to place a turkey breast on the cutting board and slice it before we cook it. This will ensure a quicker cook time and let tons more flavor absorb on the open surface of the breast, helping to keep it juicy and tender.
Slice the turkey breast into 1/2 to 3/4 inch pieces. You can do this right before starting or even the evening before as a make ahead step to save prep time.
- 1 turkey breast (sliced)
- 3-4 tbsp of Butcher BBQ Private Seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp Butcher BBQ Garlic Grilling Oil (a flavorful olive oil based grilling oil)
- 2 tbsp thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
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- Preheat grill to medium heat around 375°F. You can use either a gas grill or charcoal grill for this recipe, applying indirect heat if needed to avoid flare-ups and to help keep the turkey moist.
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- In a small bowl, mix the Grilling Oil, garlic, rosemary, Private Seasoning, sage and thyme to create an herb rub that will infuse flavor while helping keep the meat moist and tender.
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- Dry the turkey breast slices with a paper towel and then generously rub the herb mixture all over, making sure to coat evenly for maximum flavor penetration.
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- Place the turkey slices onto the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, flipping once to ensure even cooking and attractive grill marks.
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- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure safe and juicy white meat that maintains ideal protein and fat levels without drying out.
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- During the last few minutes of grilling, drizzle the turkey breast slices with just the Grilling Oil, flipping once to coat both sides and add extra richness off the grill.
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- Once the turkey is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let rest briefly before serving.
- This rest time helps redistribute juices for a moist main course with better flavor and texture.
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How to Keep a Turkey Moist on the Grill?
To keep turkey moist on the grill, slice the breast before grilling to reduce cook time and expose more surface to marinades or rubs that lock in moisture. Using indirect heat and basting with olive oil or garlic grilling oil during cooking also helps maintain juiciness and preserves important nutrients like potassium and iron. Finally, relying on a meat thermometer to remove the turkey exactly at 165°F prevents drying out from overcooking and maintains a good balance of fat, saturated fat, and protein.
Do You Grill a Turkey Breast Side Up or Down?
When grilling turkey breast slices, place them on the grill with one side down initially—usually the skin side or the side with more seasoning—to get a good sear and grill marks. Flip halfway through cook time to ensure even cooking on both sides and consistent nutrition per serving.
How to Make the Most Juicy Turkey Breast?
To make the most juicy turkey breast, slice before cooking for shorter, more even heat exposure. Marinate or rub with a mixture containing herbs, garlic, and oils that add fat and flavor, enhancing the natural white meat. Cook over medium heat using indirect heat if possible, monitor temperature with a meat thermometer, and rest the meat briefly after grilling to lock in moisture and flavor.