How to Grill a Perfectly Juicy Spatchcock Turkey on a Weber Kettle

Grilling a spatchcock turkey is one of the best ways to get incredibly moist, flavorful meat and crispy skin. By removing the backbone and flattening the bird, it cooks faster and more evenly than a traditional roasted whole turkey. The Weber kettle grill is ideal for spatchcocking turkey and infusing delicious smoky flavor.

In this guide I’ll share my tips for spatchcocking turkey on a Weber kettle from prep to carving. With a few simple techniques, you can master grilling the most mouthwatering spatchcock turkey ever. Keep reading for the step-by-step process!

Why Spatchcock Turkey on a Weber Kettle?

Here are the main benefits of spatchcocking turkey on a Weber charcoal grill

• Faster cook time – Flattened turkey grills in about half the time of a whole turkey.

• Juicier meat – The breast doesn’t dry out since it’s closer to the heat source.

• Crispier skin – The skin gets deliciously crisp and charred from the grill.

• More smoke flavor – The turkey can absorb more wood smoke on the grill.

• Easier to carve – With no back and flattened breastbone, carving is a breeze.

For best results, opt for a mid-size 10-14 lb turkey to fit on the grill and allow proper air circulation.

Weber Kettle Grilling Setup

To grill spatchcock turkey on a Weber, here is the recommended setup:

• 22-inch kettle – Excellent for a 10-12 lb spatchcock turkey.

• 26-inch kettle – Ideal for spatchcock turkeys up to 14 lbs.

• 2-zone fire – Use indirect heat with coals banked to one side.

• 350°F temperature – Maintain a steady medium heat.

• Charcoal baskets – Hold coals to one side and contain ash.

• Wood chunks – Add 1-2 chunks for light smoke flavor.

This configuration allows you to grill the turkey evenly without any flare-ups.

Spatchcocking the Turkey

The first crucial step is properly spatchcocking or butterflying the turkey:

1. Place turkey breast-side down on a cutting board.

2. Using sharp kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone.

3. Remove and discard the backbone.

4. Flip turkey over and press down firmly to flatten breastbone.

5. Cover and refrigerate 8-24 hours for really crisp skin.

Removing the backbone allows the turkey to lie flat so it grills much faster and more evenly.

Prepping the Turkey

Before grilling, I like to prep the spatchcock turkey for maximum flavor:

• Loosen skin from breast and slide herb butter underneath.

• Generously season under and on top of skin with salt and pepper.

• Rub outside of skin lightly with olive oil.

This helps ensure well-seasoned, juicy meat and super crispy skin.

Grilling the Spatchcock Turkey

Once your Weber kettle is set up for indirect heat, follow these steps:

1. Place spatchcock turkey skin-side up on cool side of grill.

2. Add 1-2 chunks of smoking wood like apple or cherry.

3. Grill uncovered, maintaining heat around 350°F.

4. Cook approximately 60-90 minutes until breast is 165°F.

5. Remove turkey and tent loosely with foil. Let rest 20 minutes.

The turkey should turn out perfectly moist and tender with a smoky, crispy skin.

Carving the Turkey

Thanks to spatchcocking, carving the turkey is so easy:

• Cut turkey in half lengthwise through the breastbone.

• Slice each half across the grain into pieces.

• Serve white and dark meat together or separately.

Be sure to pour the flavorful juices released while carving over the meat.

Side Dishes for Spatchcock Turkey

Here are some classic side dishes that pair perfectly with grilled spatchcock turkey:

• Fluffy mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes

• Savory stuffing or dressing

• Tangy cranberry sauce

• Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts

• Fresh green bean casserole

• Warm rolls or biscuits

• Fall salad with pomegranate seeds

With easy sides like these, you’ll have an amazing feast!

Grilled Spatchcock Turkey Perfection

Grilling a spatchcock turkey on a Weber charcoal kettle results in the most tender, juicy meat infused with mouthwatering smoke flavor and crisped to perfection skin. It cuts down on cook time while maximizing moisture and taste.

The Weber kettle’s versatile 2-zone indirect heat setup allows you to easily grill a flawless spatchcock turkey. Just remember to prep the bird properly and use an instant read thermometer for perfect doneness. I hope these tips help you master grilling the best spatchcock turkey ever!