Are you tired of the same old boring turkey dishes every Thanksgiving and holiday season? Look no further! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering inject turkey recipes that will take your turkey game to the next level. From classic flavors like Cajun butter and garlic herb, to bold and adventurous options like spicy chipotle and pineapple teriyaki, we’ve got a recipe to suit every taste.
Whether you’re a fan of savory and smoky, or sweet and tangy, our inject turkey recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. And the best part? They’re all ridiculously easy to make! Just imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, flavorful turkey breast, thigh, wing, or drumstick, infused with your favorite flavors.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cuisines and flavor profiles that will inspire you to try something new. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to inject some excitement into your turkey game!
Cajun Butter Injected Smoked Turkey
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cajun butter with the tender, smoky goodness of a slow-cooked turkey. The result is a show-stopping centerpiece for your next family gathering or holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup Cajun butter (see note)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Using a meat injector or a syringe, inject the butter mixture into the turkey breast, thighs, and legs.
5. Place the turkey in the smoker, breast side up.
6. Smoke for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Garlic Herb Injected Roast Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this show-stopping roast turkey infused with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic cloves, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Insert the garlic-herb mixture under the turkey’s skin, spreading evenly throughout the breast and thighs.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 3-1/2 to 4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 to 4 hours
Spicy Chipotle Injected Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this bold and flavorful recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Butterfly the turkey breast by cutting it horizontally through the center, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the turkey with the chipotle mixture, spreading it evenly throughout the breast.
5. Place the turkey on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast side up.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey and bake for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Honey Mustard Injected Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey leg game with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of honey and mustard for a sweet and tangy twist.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Place the turkey legs in a shallow dish and brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over both sides of each leg.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey legs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Pepper Injected Whole Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic turkey recipe, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 4 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and garlic until well combined.
4. Inject the mixture under the turkey’s skin, using a syringe or spoon to spread evenly throughout the breast and thighs.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for approximately 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Bourbon Maple Injected Turkey Thighs
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring bourbon-infused maple syrup injected directly into the meat. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey thighs
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon and maple syrup until well combined.
3. Rinse turkey thighs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
4. Using a meat injector or a syringe, inject the bourbon-maple mixture into each thigh, aiming for the thickest part of the meat.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place turkey thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Injected Turkey Wings
Elevate your game-day gatherings with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic with tender turkey wings. This injection technique ensures a juicy, aromatic bird that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey wings
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut slits in the turkey wings, about 1/4 inch deep, making sure not to cut too close to the bones.
4. Stuff each wing with the rosemary-garlic mixture, dividing it evenly among the four to six wings.
5. Place the stuffed wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian Soy Ginger Injected Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup Asian-style soy sauce (such as Kikkoman)
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, olive oil, and sesame oil.
3. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Inject the marinade into the turkey cavity using a syringe or a basting brush, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the outside of the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
BBQ Injected Turkey Drumsticks
Elevate your turkey drumstick game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the tender juiciness of turkey with the rich flavors of BBQ. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a crowd-pleasing snack or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey drumsticks
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Inject the marinade into each turkey drumstick using a syringe or injector, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Place the injected drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Injected Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and savory turkey recipe, featuring a pineapple teriyaki glaze injected into the meat for maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Insert a meat thermometer into the turkey’s thickest part.
4. Inject the teriyaki mixture into the turkey through the thigh cavity, using a syringe or a meat injector.
5. Rub the outside of the turkey with olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
6. Place turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Smoked Paprika Injected Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this show-stopping recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked paprika and tender turkey breast. Perfect for special occasions or a delicious dinner any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Make several injections into the turkey breast using a meat injector or a sharp knife. Fill each injection with about 1 tablespoon of the paprika mixture.
4. Season the outside of the turkey breast with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Herbed Butter Injected Roast Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this show-stopping roast turkey infused with the savory flavors of herbed butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest.
4. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the herbed butter mixture, using your hands or a spatula to spread it evenly throughout the meat.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the turkey for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Jalapeño Lime Injected Turkey Legs
Elevate your game-day or special occasion with these mouth-watering Jalapeño Lime Injected Turkey Legs! A perfect blend of spicy and tangy flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, and brown sugar.
3. Place turkey legs in a large baking dish and inject the mixture into each leg using a syringe or piping bag.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Orange Sage Injected Whole Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful whole turkey recipe that combines the brightness of orange zest and the earthiness of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together marmalade, olive oil, sage, and orange zest.
3. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the mixture, spreading it evenly throughout the cavity.
4. Season the turkey’s exterior with salt and pepper.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for approximately 4-4 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Garlic Parmesan Injected Turkey Wings
Elevate your snack game with these juicy turkey wings infused with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey wings
– 1/2 cup garlic butter (softened)
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened garlic butter and grated parmesan cheese.
3. Lay turkey wings flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Using a spoon or piping bag, inject the garlic-parmesan mixture into each turkey wing, making sure to fill them evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the cheese is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cranberry Balsamic Injected Turkey
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this unique and flavorful recipe, combining the sweetness of cranberries with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
4. Loosely fill the turkey’s cavity with the cranberry mixture, making sure to spread it evenly throughout.
5. Season the outside of the turkey with salt and pepper.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 4-4 1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Brown Sugar Bourbon Injected Turkey
This show-stopping turkey recipe combines the rich flavors of brown sugar, bourbon, and herbs to create a truly unforgettable dish perfect for special occasions. With its tender, juicy meat and caramelized crust, this turkey is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, bourbon, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the mixture, making sure to spread it evenly throughout the meat.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and season with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast the turkey for 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Applewood Injected Turkey Breast
A game-changing twist on traditional turkey breast, this recipe infuses tender and juicy meat with the rich flavor of smoked applewood. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup Smoked Applewood Injected Marinade (see below)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Smoked Applewood Injected Marinade:
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons Smoked Applewood Extract (or 1 teaspoon liquid smoke)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together marinade ingredients.
3. Place turkey breast in a large ziplock bag; add olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Massage to coat evenly.
4. Pour marinade into the bag with turkey; massage again to ensure even coverage.
5. Seal bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Remove turkey from marinade; place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes for a 4-6 pound turkey breast.
Thyme Lemon Injected Roast Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this aromatic and citrusy roasted turkey recipe, infused with the warmth of thyme and the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and thyme.
4. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the lemon-thyme mixture.
5. Season the outside of the turkey with salt and pepper.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Spicy Buffalo Injected Turkey Drumsticks
Spicy Buffalo Injected Turkey Drumsticks Recipe
Elevate your turkey game with these spicy drumsticks, packed with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and injected with a savory marinade. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey drumsticks
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce, Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the turkey drumsticks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with additional buffalo sauce for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your turkey game with these 20 mouthwatering injected turkey recipes! From spicy chipotle to honey mustard, bourbon maple to Asian soy ginger, there’s a flavor combination for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a Cajun butter infused smoked turkey or a herbed butter roasted turkey, this collection has got you covered. With options for legs, breasts, wings, and more, you’ll find the perfect recipe to make your holiday feast truly unforgettable.
