Easy Barbecue Smoked Wild Turkey Breast
My absolute favorite wild turkey recipe! Whether you eat it as is or thin sliced in sandwiches, this recipe is a must try!
If you’re looking to elevate your barbecue game, this Barbecue Smoked Wild Turkey Breast is a must-try! Wild turkey is lean, flavorful, and a fantastic canvas for smoky, tangy barbecue flavors. With a simple brine (that’s technically optional), a bold rub, and your favorite barbecue sauce, this recipe delivers juicy, tender results that’ll impress at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or new to smoking, this straightforward recipe is perfect for your next outdoor cook or hunting camp meal. Let’s dive in!
Tips for Success
- Brining: The brine is optional but highly recommended for wild turkey, which can be leaner and less forgiving than store-bought poultry. It adds moisture and enhances flavor.
- Wood Choice: Apple or cherry wood pairs beautifully with turkey, giving a subtle sweetness that complements the barbecue sauce.
- Sauce Timing: Brushing on sauce every 30 minutes builds a sticky, flavorful glaze. If you prefer a thicker glaze, apply more sauce in the final 30 minutes.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. For a lighter option, pair with a fresh green salad or grilled veggies.
Let’s Get Connected!
Keep in touch with me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube! I post tons a wild game recipe videos on all my social media pages. If you do make this recipe (or any of the recipes on my blog) be sure to tag me so I can see your re-creations!
PrintEasy Barbecue Smoked Wild Turkey Breast
The perfect smoked wild turkey breast every time. Did I mention how easy this recipe is to make?
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-2.5 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
Ingredients
- 1 Wild Turkey Breast
- 2 tablespoons Mustard
- 1.5–2 tablespoons Barbecue Rub
- 1.5–2 cups Barbecue Barbecue Sauce, Divided
Brine (Optional)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 1/4 cup Kosher Salt
- 4 cup Cold Water
Instructions
- Optional: To brine the wild turkey breast, combine water, salt and sugar in a large bowl and stir until mostly dissolved. Add turkey breast to the bowl adding additional water if needed to submerge. Brine for 12-24 hours. Once the brine time is complete, rinse thoroughly and dry with paper towels.
- Brush mustard (or olive oil, whichever is your preferred binder) all over the wild turkey breast in a thin layer. Season the wild turkey breast well with your barbecue rub on all sides. Allow to sit while you preheat the smoker.
- Preheat your smoker to 250 degrees.
- Once preheated, place the turkey breast into your smoker and smoke until the internal temperature of the breast reaches 160 degrees, about 2 -2.5 hours depending on the size of the breast. Every 30 minutes while it cooks, brush both sides with barbecue sauce, flipping each time.
- Once the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees, remove the turkey breast from the smoker and tent loosely with foil and rest for 10-15 minutes. This will continue cooking the turkey breast to 165 degrees.
This turned out great for me! I have followed you on Instagram for awhile now and have cooked several of your recipes. As a hunter, I am always looking for new ways to cook wild game. This wild Turkey breast recipe will go into my yearly rotation. Thanks again Jenn.