Tequila Lime Bbq Turkey
Infuse your next barbecue with bold flavors by trying this irresistible Tequila Lime BBQ Turkey recipe—a smoky, citrusy twist on your holiday classic. Perfect for grilling or smoking, this turkey is marinated in a tantalizing blend of fresh lime juice, tequila, honey, smoked paprika, and garlic, ensuring every bite bursts with zesty, smoky goodness. Stuffed with aromatic lime halves and cilantro, and basted with a rich marinade throughout its slow cook, the turkey emerges tender, juicy, and deeply flavorful. Ideal for backyard gatherings or festive celebrations, this showstopping centerpiece pairs beautifully with BBQ sides like grilled corn or tangy coleslaw. With minimal prep and effortless cooking on the grill, this tequila-infused masterpiece is a surefire way to elevate your outdoor dining experience.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 lbs Whole turkey
- 1.5 cups Fresh lime juice
- 0.5 cups Tequila
- 0.25 cups Olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Honey
- 6 cloves Garlic
- 2 tablespoons Smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 whole Limes
- 0.5 cups Fresh cilantro
- 1 cup Turkey stock or water
Instructions
Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, tequila, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the turkey's giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Place the turkey in a large roasting bag or deep dish.
Pour the marinade over the turkey, making sure to coat it well inside and out. Add the limes (halved). Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Preheat your grill or smoker to 325°F (163°C). If using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect cooking with a drip pan in the center.
Remove the turkey from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Reserve the marinade and strain it to remove solids.
If desired, stuff the turkey cavity with lime halves and fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Truss the turkey legs and tuck the wings under the bird. Place the turkey on the grill or smoker breast-side up.
Cook the turkey for approximately 12-15 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes with the reserved marinade mixed with 1 cup of turkey stock or water.
After about 3 hours, check the turkey's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The breast should reach 165°F (74°C) and the thighs 175°F (79°C).
Once fully cooked, remove the turkey from the grill and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Serve with your favorite BBQ sides and enjoy this tequila-lime-infused feast!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
8648 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 252.6 g | 324% | |
| Saturated Fat | 64.5 g | 322% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 3835 mg | 1278% | |
| Sodium | 8502 mg | 370% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 117.8 g | 43% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.5 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 61.6 g | ||
| Protein | 1326.6 g | 2653% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 837 mg | 64% | |
| Iron | 70.9 mg | 394% | |
| Potassium | 14120 mg | 300% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
