Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLona's Lil EatsSmoked Turkey Recipe

Smoked Turkey Recipe

Inspired by Lona's Lil Eats
Time5h
Serves10

Make Smoked Turkey Recipe in just 5h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Turkey Preparation

Method

Turkey Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Turkey

    Remove the turkey from packaging and remove any giblets from the cavity. Rinse the turkey under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Season the Turkey

    In a bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.

  3. 3

    Marinate

    Cover the seasoned turkey with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Smoking Process

  1. 4

    Prepare the Smoker

    Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If using a charcoal smoker, light the coals and let them burn until they are covered in ash. Add soaked wood chips to the coals for smoke.

  2. 5

    Smoke the Turkey

    Place the turkey on the smoker rack, breast side up. Close the lid and smoke the turkey for about 30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.

  3. 6

    Rest the Turkey

    Once the turkey is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

More from Lona's Lil Eats