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chickensmokerAugust 26, 2026

Smoked Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Chipotle Glaze

Name: Smoked Turkey Breast with Cranberry-Chipotle Glaze
Total time: 180
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American barbecue
Ingredients: Kosher salt; Black pepper

A lean, flavorful smoked turkey breast finished with a tangy-spicy cranberry-chipotle glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with straightforward techn

Low-and-slow smoking keeps the breast moist while the cranberry-chipotle glaze adds depth and complexity.

Pit temp

275

Total time

180

Active time

45 minutes

Serves

Why it works

Turkey breast is lean and prone to drying out, but smoking at a steady 275°F with indirect heat prevents overcooking while infusing smoke flavor. The cranberry-chipotle glaze balances sweet, tart, and spicy notes and caramelizes during the final cook phase to create an appealing crust.

This cook is built for easy pitmasters running a smoker setup, but the real win is that the method stays adaptable if your fire drifts or your timing gets crowded.

Set up the cooker for steady indirect heat.
Season the protein evenly before it hits the grate.
Cook until color and texture begin to line up.
Make the next adjustment based on feel, not panic.
Rest before slicing or serving.

Pit notes

Use a bone-in turkey breast rather than boneless for better moisture retention and flavor.

If the glaze begins to burn during the final 30 minutes, reduce brush frequency or lower pit temperature slightly.

Inject butter mixed with poultry seasoning into the thickest parts of the breast 2 hours before smoking for added moisture.

Let the turkey breast rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking to ensure even cooking.

The glaze can be made 1 day ahead and stored in the refrigerator; warm it gently before applying to the turkey.

FAQ

Can I use a boneless turkey breast?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 1.5 to 2 hours and monitor the internal temperature closely. Boneless breasts cook faster and dry out more easily.

What if I don't have chipotle peppers?

Substitute with 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper mixed into the cranberry sauce for a similar spicy-smoky profile.

Can I cook this on a gas or pellet smoker?

Yes. Maintain 275°F on a pellet smoker and add smoke tubes if needed. On a gas smoker, place wood chips in a foil packet over the burner to generate smoke.

How should I store leftovers?

Slice the cooled turkey and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven wrapped in foil to prevent drying.

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