If you’re a fan of cooking with a Big Green Egg, you know that it’s a versatile and powerful tool that can produce delicious meals with just about any ingredient.
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But when it comes to cooking a turkey breast on the Big Green Egg, there’s one question that comes up time and time again: should the breast be cooked with the skin side up or down?
The answer is not as simple as you might think. While some people swear by cooking the turkey breast with the skin side up, others argue that cooking it with the skin side down is the way to go. So which method is best?
In this blog post, I’ll explore the pros and cons of cooking a turkey breast on the Big Green Egg with the skin side up or down. I’ll take a look at the science behind each method, and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about how to cook your next turkey breast on the Big Green Egg.
So whether you’re a seasoned Big Green Egg pro or a first-time user, read on to discover the best way to cook a turkey breast on your favorite grill.
Big Green Egg Turkey Breast Up Or Down – Get The Right Answer
The truth is, there is no right or wrong answer. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific recipe you are using.
Cooking with the skin side up is the more traditional method and is often recommended to ensure the skin gets crispy and golden brown.
Additionally, the skin acts as a protective layer that helps keep the meat moist during cooking. However, cooking with the skin side up can result in a slightly drier meat on the underside of the breast.
On the other hand, cooking with the skin side down can create a juicier breast. The skin acts as a barrier between the meat and the heat source, allowing the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat. Cooking with the skin side down can also create a more even crust on the meat.
To determine which method is best for you, consider the recipe you are using and your personal preferences.
If you want crispy skin and don’t mind a slightly drier underside, cook with the skin side up. If you want a juicier breast and a more even crust, cook with the skin side down.
Regardless of which method you choose, it’s important to properly season the turkey breast before cooking and to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
With a little experimentation and practice, you’ll find the method that produces the perfect turkey breast for you and your guests.
Also Read: Burgers On Big Green Egg Direct Or Indirect Method (Answered)
How To Cook Turkey Breast With Skin Side Up
When it comes to cooking turkey breast on a Big Green Egg, there are a few different methods you can use. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a juicy and flavorful turkey breast that is sure to impress your guests.
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast – The first step to cooking turkey breast on a Big Green Egg is to prepare the meat. Rinse the turkey breast with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey breast with your favorite spices and herbs. You can use a dry rub or a marinade to add flavor to the meat.
Step 2: Set up the Big Green Egg – Before you start cooking, you’ll need to set up your Big Green Egg. Preheat the grill to 325°F. Set up the grill for indirect cooking by placing the plate setter in the grill with the legs facing up. Place a drip pan on top of the plate setter. This will help catch any drippings and prevent flare-ups.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey Breast – Once the grill is preheated, place the turkey breast on the grill with the skin side up. Close the lid and cook the turkey breast for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the meat.
Step 4: Rest and Serve – Once the turkey breast is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey breast. Carve the turkey breast and serve it with your favorite sides.
In conclusion, cooking turkey breast with skin side up on a Big Green Egg is a simple and delicious way to prepare a holiday meal or a special dinner.
Remember to properly season the meat, monitor the internal temperature, and let the meat rest before carving. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at cooking turkey breast on your Big Green Egg in no time.
Big Green Egg Turkey Breast Cooking Time And Temperature Chart –
Cooking a turkey breast on a Big Green Egg requires a little bit of patience and a good understanding of cooking times and temperatures.
Here is a handy chart that will help you cook the perfect turkey breast on your Big Green Egg:
| Turkey Breast Size | Cooking Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4-6 lbs. | 325°F | 1.5-2 hours |
| 6-8 lbs. | 325°F | 2-2.5 hours |
| 8-10 lbs. | 325°F | 2.5-3 hours |
| 10-12 lbs. | 325°F | 3-3.5 hours |
| 12-14 lbs. | 325°F | 3.5-4 hours |
It’s important to note that these cooking times are estimates, and the actual cooking time will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the turkey breast, the temperature of the grill, and the desired level of doneness.
To ensure that your turkey breast is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the breast.
Remember to let the turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This will result in a juicier and more flavorful turkey breast.
By using this chart and a meat thermometer, you’ll be able to cook a perfectly tender and juicy turkey breast on your Big Green Egg every time.
Also Read: Big Green Egg Chicken Wings Direct Or Indirect Heat? (Answered)
How long do you smoke turkey breasts on a Big Green Egg?
The length of time it takes to smoke a turkey breast on a Big Green Egg will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the turkey breast, the temperature of the grill, and the desired level of doneness.
As a general rule of thumb, plan on smoking a turkey breast for approximately 30 minutes per pound. So, for example, a 6-pound turkey breast would take approximately 3 hours to smoke on a Big Green Egg.
What temperature do you smoke turkey breasts on a Big Green Egg?
To smoke a turkey breast on a Big Green Egg, you’ll want to maintain a temperature of 225-250°F. This low and slow cooking method will result in a tender and juicy turkey breast that is full of flavor.
How long does it take to smoke a turkey breast at 225°F?
At a temperature of 225°F, it will take approximately 30 minutes per pound to smoke a turkey breast on a Big Green Egg. So, for example, a 6-pound turkey breast would take approximately 3 hours to smoke at 225°F.
When cooking turkey breast, do you cover it with foil?
While some people choose to cover their turkey breast with foil while cooking to prevent it from drying out, it is not necessary when using a Big Green Egg.
The moisture and smoke generated by the grill will keep the turkey breast moist and flavorful, without the need for a foil covering.
However, if you find that the turkey breast is getting too dark or dry during cooking, you can cover it with foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
