How Long Does It Take to Grill a Juicy, Perfect Turkey Breast?

Grilling turkey breast is a delicious way to prepare turkey. The smoky, charred flavor takes this lean poultry to the next level. But to end up with a juicy, perfectly cooked turkey breast, you need to know how long to grill it. Follow this guide for tips on grilling times, techniques and recipes to make your grilled turkey breast a summertime success.

Choosing and Preparing the Turkey Breast

The first step is selecting the right turkey breast. Opt for a fresh plump breast between 2 to 5 pounds. Rinse it and pat dry. Remove any giblets or neck from the cavity. Coat the skin liberally with olive oil or melted butter and season all over with salt and pepper.

You can also brine or marinate the turkey breast up to 2 days ahead for extra moisture and flavor. A simple brine of salt, sugar and aromatics like garlic, citrus and herbs works well. For a fast marinade, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and chopped rosemary.

If desired you can stuff seasoned bread cubes or veggies like onions oranges or garlic in the cavity before grilling for added flavor. Just be sure to account for extra grill time if stuffed.

Setting Up the Grill

Grilling over indirect heat is best for large cuts like turkey breast to prevent burning. To set up a two zone fire, bank coals to one side of a charcoal grill or only turn on one set of burners for a gas grill. Place a drip pan on the cool side to catch drippings.

Heat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F. Clean and lightly oil the grates. Place the turkey skin-side up over the drip pan on the indirect heat zone. Close the lid to maintain heat.

Grill Times per Pound

The total grill time depends on the size of your turkey breast. Plan on grilling for about 15 minutes per pound to reach an safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Here are estimated grill times based on turkey breast weight

• 2 pounds: 30-35 minutes
• 3 pounds: 45-50 minutes
• 4 pounds: 60-70 minutes
• 5 pounds: 75-90 minutes

Monitoring Doneness

Use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temp, inserting into the thickest part without hitting bone. Baste with reserved marinade or melted butter every 30 minutes.

Once the breast hits 160°F, keep a close watch to avoid overcooking. Remove from grill when it reaches 165°F and juices run clear when pierced.

Letting It Rest

Never cut into turkey right off the grill! Let it rest at least 10-15 minutes tented in foil so juices can redistribute through the meat. Slice across the grain and serve warm.

Grilled Turkey Breast Recipes

Follow these recipes for foolproof grilled turkey breast every time:

Simple Herb Grilled Turkey Breast

Ingredients:

• 3 lb turkey breast
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1⁄2 tsp salt
• 1⁄4 tsp pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Rub mixture all over turkey breast.
2. Grill turkey over indirect medium heat for 45-55 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting occasionally with pan drippings.
3. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing to serve.

BBQ Grilled Turkey Breast

Ingredients:

• 4 lb turkey breast
• 1 cup barbecue sauce, divided
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1⁄2 tsp salt
• 1⁄4 tsp pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine 1⁄2 cup barbecue sauce, brown sugar and spices. Spread over turkey breast.
2. Grill turkey over indirect medium heat 60-70 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F, basting with remaining barbecue sauce every 20 minutes.
3. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing to serve.

Lemon Pepper Grilled Turkey Breast

Ingredients:

• 2 lb turkey breast
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1⁄2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Combine lemon zest and juice, olive oil, garlic, lemon pepper and salt. Pour over turkey breast in a ziploc bag to marinate 30 minutes.
2. Grill turkey over indirect medium heat for 30-40 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F, basting with marinade.
3. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing to serve.

Expert Tips for Grilled Turkey Breast

Follow these pro tips for the most flavorful, juicy grilled turkey breast:

• Choose the right size breast for your grill, allowing adequate space for indirect cooking. Go too big and it may not cook evenly.

• Brining or marinating is highly recommended to infuse flavor and keep the lean meat moist.

• Resist peeking under the lid too much or you’ll lose heat and add grill time. Open only to baste, turn or check temp.

• Use a foil pan under the breast to catch juices. Baste with these drippings while grilling for added flavor and moisture.

• Let the breast rest after grilling! This crucial step allows juices to redistribute so meat stays juicy when you slice into it.

With the proper techniques, you can master grilling moist, delicious turkey breast in about 15 minutes per pound. Next time you fire up the barbecue, throw a turkey breast on the grill for a smoky, summery twist.