How Long to Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey for Juicy, Flavorful Results

Smoking a spatchcock turkey is a fantastic way to prepare turkey for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Spatchcocking (removing the backbone and flattening the bird) allows the turkey to cook faster and more evenly than smoking a whole intact turkey. But exactly how long does it take to smoke a spatchcocked turkey to perfection?

In this comprehensive guide. we will cover everything you need to know about smoking times for spatchcock turkey including

• Benefits of spatchcocking
• Step-by-step smoking instructions
• How long to smoke based on size and temperature
• Pro tips for best results
• Common FAQs

After reading, you’ll be fully prepared to smoke a flawless spatchcock turkey with tender, juicy meat and incredible flavor. Let’s get started!

What is Spatchcocking and Why Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey?

Spatchcocking refers to the process of removing the backbone from a bird and flattening it for cooking, This technique allows for faster and more even cooking than smoking a whole intact turkey

There are several advantages to spatchcocking over smoking a turkey whole:

• Cooks faster: With the backbone removed and the bird flattened, more surface area is exposed directly to smoke and heat. This significantly decreases cooking time.

• Cooks evenly: The breast, thighs, and wings will all reach the proper internal temperature at around the same time. No dealing with dried out breast or undercooked dark meat.

• Easier to season: The flattened spatchcocked turkey is easy to access from all angles when applying rubs, marinades, or injections.

• Simpler to carve: Removing the backbone makes carving the smoked turkey much easier after cooking.

• Incredible smoke flavor: Smoking infuses the turkey with delicious flavor from apple, pecan, cherry, or other wood chips/chunks.

Overall, smoking a spatchcock turkey results in a flavorful, juicy bird ready to serve as the centerpiece of your holiday meal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Smoking Spatchcock Turkey

Follow these simple steps for smoking spatchcock turkey:

1. Spatchcock and Prepare the Turkey

• Remove backbone and flatten the turkey. Rinse inside cavities and pat dry.
• Apply dry or wet brine if desired and refrigerate 12-24 hours.
• Remove turkey from brine, rinse, and pat dry. Tuck wing tips under.

2. Generously Season the Turkey

• Rub skin with olive oil or butter.
• Season under and on skin with salt, pepper, herbs, and spices.
• Insert herb butter or garlic under skin if desired.

3. Preheat Smoker to 225-275°F

• With wood chips/chunks loaded, preheat smoker. Use apple, pecan, cherry, etc.

4. Smoke the Turkey for 3-4.5 Hours

• Place spatchcocked turkey skin-side up on grates.
• Smoke until breast hits 165°F and thighs hit 175-185°F.
• Check temperature in breast and inner thigh.

5. Allow Turkey to Rest Then Carve and Serve

• Let rest 15 minutes before carving.
• Carve turkey and enjoy your delicious smoked spatchcock turkey!

How Long to Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey at 225-275°F

The amount of time needed to smoke a spatchcock turkey depends on a few factors:

• Turkey size – A 12 lb bird may only need 3 hours while a 20 lb turkey may take the full 4.5 hours.

• Brining – Brined turkeys tend to cook slightly slower.

• Smoker temperature – Lower heat means longer cook time. Keep between 225-275°F.

• Weather – Cold or windy days may increase cook time needed.

As a general guideline, use the following smoke times as a starting point:

• 12-15 lb turkey: Approx. 3 to 4 hours
• 16-18 lb turkey: Approx. 4 to 4.5 hours
• 20-22 lb turkey: Approx. 4.5 to 5 hours

For best results, always rely on an instant read thermometer to determine when your spatchcock turkey is perfectly smoked and ready to come off the smoker. The turkey should register 165°F at the thickest part of the breast and 175-185°F in the thighs.

Pro Tips for Smoked Spatchcock Turkey Success

Use these pro tips for smoking spatchcock turkey to help ensure ideal results:

• Choose a smaller 12-15 lb turkey for faster cook time and easier handling.

• Rotate the turkey halfway through if some areas seem to be cooking faster.

• Use a drip pan to catch tasty drippings for making gravy.

• Brush turkey with melted butter during last 30-60 minutes for crispy skin.

• Let turkey rest at least 15-20 minutes before carving for juicier meat.

• Use a remote thermometer with alarm to monitor temp without constantly opening the smoker.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smoking Spatchcock Turkey

What size turkey is best for spatchcocking?

Stick with turkeys under 15 lbs for easiest handling and cooking. Larger birds can be difficult to maneuver.

How long per pound should I smoke a spatchcock turkey?

Allow approximately 11-13 minutes per pound at 225-275°F. Rely on a meat thermometer for doneness.

What is the minimum smoker temp for spatchcock turkey?

You can smoke spatchcock turkey as low as 225°F but it will take longer. Higher heat up to 275°F reduces cook time.

Should I brine the turkey before smoking?

Brining keeps the turkey super moist and tasty. A simple saltwater brine works great.

What wood is best for smoking turkey?

Apple, cherry, pecan, alder, and maple all pair wonderfully with poultry.

Do I need to inject marinade into the turkey?

Injecting adds flavor but isn’t necessary. If injecting, dissolve spices/herbs in broth first.

Juicy, Flavorful Spatchcock Turkey Perfection

Smoking a spatchcock turkey delivers incredibly moist, delicious meat flavored with wood smoke. For the best results, maintain your smoker temperature between 225-275°F and smoke the flattened bird for approximately 11-13 minutes per pound until it reaches the ideal internal temperature.

Now that you know exactly how long to smoke a spatchcock turkey, it’s time to fire up the smoker! Enjoy bite after bite of tender, juicy smoked turkey this holiday season.