Lemon Herb Grilled Turkey

Okay, so… have you ever tried grilled turkey with lemon and herbs? Oh wow, it’s something else. The smell alone had me drooling.

We made it last weekend, and guess what? It was juicy, zesty, and full of flavor. Even the picky eaters asked for seconds.

What makes it pop? Fresh lemon, tasty herbs, and that smoky grill magic. Trust me, it’s not hard—and totally worth it.

Wanna try it too? I’ll show you how we did it, step by step. Let’s get grilling!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy & Tender: The lemon-butter marinade locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is succulent.
Bursting with Flavor: Fresh lemons, thyme, and garlic create a bright, aromatic taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or summer BBQ, this turkey is a hit.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra and use leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make the perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Turkey, you’ll need:

• Grill (Gas or Charcoal) – A well-heated grill ensures a crispy, golden crust.
• Meat Thermometer – Ensures your turkey reaches a safe internal temperature.
• Mixing Bowls – For preparing the marinade.
• Basting Brush – Helps evenly coat the turkey with herb butter.
• Tongs – For flipping and handling the turkey on the grill.
• Aluminum Foil – For resting the turkey after grilling.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed turkey (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Whole Turkey (or Turkey Breast/Thighs) – Fresh or thawed, skin-on for crispy results.
• Salt & Pepper – Enhances natural flavors.
• Lemon Juice & Zest – Adds brightness and tenderizes the meat.
• Butter (or Margarine), Softened – Creates a rich, golden crust when grilled.
• Olive Oil – Keeps the turkey moist and prevents sticking.
• Garlic, Minced – Provides deep savory notes.
• Fresh Thyme (or Dried Thyme) – Pairs beautifully with citrus flavors.
• Onion, Quartered – Adds extra aromatics while grilling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey

• If using a whole turkey, remove giblets and pat it dry with paper towels.
• For turkey breasts or thighs, trim any excess fat.
• Lightly season the turkey with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.

2. Make the Lemon Herb Butter

• In a bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and thyme.
• Stir until fully combined. This mixture will infuse the turkey with flavor while keeping it moist.

3. Apply the Marinade

• Carefully lift the turkey skin and rub the herb butter underneath for maximum flavor.
• Coat the exterior with the remaining butter mixture using a basting brush.
• Stuff the onion quarters and lemon wedges inside the cavity of the turkey (if using a whole turkey).

4. Preheat and Set Up the Grill

Gas Grill Instructions:

• Preheat the grill to medium heat (around 375-400°F).
• Turn off the center burners and keep only the side burners on to create indirect heat (this prevents burning).
• Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Charcoal Grill Instructions:

• Light the charcoal and let it burn until ashed over.
• Move the coals to one side of the grill, leaving the other side empty for indirect heat.
• Place a drip pan under the grill grate where the turkey will sit to catch any drippings.

5. Grill the Turkey

For a Whole Turkey (10-14 lbs):

• Place the turkey breast-side up over the indirect heat zone.
• Close the lid and grill for 2 to 2.5 hours, rotating every 30 minutes for even cooking.
• Baste every 30 minutes with more herb butter for extra moisture.
• When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (measured at the thickest part of the breast), it’s done!

For Turkey Breasts or Thighs:

• Place turkey skin-side down first for 5-7 minutes to get a crispy sear.
• Flip and move to indirect heat, cooking for 40-50 minutes, flipping occasionally.
• Remove from the grill when the internal temp reaches 165°F.

6. Rest the Turkey

• Remove the turkey from the grill and tent it with foil.
• Let it rest for 20-30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Turkey

This turkey is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes:

• Classic Holiday Meal: Serve with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables.
• Lighter Option: Slice and add to fresh salads with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Use leftovers for turkey sandwiches with aioli and greens.
• Rice Bowls: Pair with herbed rice and grilled asparagus for a balanced meal.

Storing and Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze shredded or sliced turkey in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Variations for Lemon Herb Grilled Turkey

You can easily tweak this recipe based on your preferences and ingredients on hand. Here are some fun variations:

1. Citrus Herb Twist

• Swap lemon juice for orange juice or lime juice for a slightly different citrus profile.
• Add fresh rosemary and sage for a deeper, earthy flavor.

2. Spicy Kick

• Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Mix in chopped jalapeños with the herb butter for extra spice.

3. Garlic Butter Infusion

• Use roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic for a milder, slightly sweet flavor.
• Mix in Parmesan cheese with the herb butter for a rich, umami-packed twist.

4. Honey Glazed Turkey

• Whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of honey into the marinade for a caramelized crust.
• Brush extra honey on the turkey during the last 10 minutes of grilling.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Use a Meat Thermometer – Always check the thickest part of the turkey to ensure it reaches 165°F. Undercooked turkey is unsafe, and overcooked turkey is dry!

Grill with the Lid Closed – Keeping the lid closed helps maintain consistent heat and ensures even cooking.

Baste Every 30 Minutes – Regular basting with the lemon herb butter keeps the turkey moist and flavorful.

Don’t Skip the Resting Time – Let the turkey rest before slicing to lock in the juices. Cutting too soon will make the meat dry out quickly.

Avoid High Heat – Cooking over direct, high heat can cause the outside to burn before the inside cooks through. Always use indirect heat for best results.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	45g
Fat	14g
Carbs	2g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	540mg

Lemon Herb Grilled Turkey FAQs

1. Can I cook this in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes! Roast in the oven at 350°F for 2.5-3 hours, basting every 30 minutes.

2. How do I prevent my turkey from drying out?

Use indirect heat, baste frequently, and let the turkey rest before slicing.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes! Use ⅓ the amount of dried herbs, as they are more concentrated.

4. How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

5. Can I make this recipe with a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey?

Absolutely! Adjust the grilling time to 40-50 minutes for turkey breasts.

Conclusion

Grilling a turkey might sound intimidating, but with this Lemon Herb Grilled Turkey recipe, you’ll achieve a perfectly juicy, flavorful result every time. The zesty lemon, fragrant thyme, and rich butter create a golden-brown, crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and delicious.

This turkey isn’t just for special occasions—it’s a year-round favorite that can be enjoyed in salads, sandwiches, rice bowls, or as the star of your meal. Plus, with grilling tips, variations, and storage tips, you can easily customize it to fit your taste and schedule.