How To Grill A Turkey On A Gas Grill According To A Professional Chef

Follow these chef-recommended step-by-step instructions for how to cook a turkey on a gas grill.

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Defrosting
Food Safety
Preparing the Grill
How to Grill the Turkey
Grilling Time

Do not stuff a turkey that you plan on grilling, per the USDA.

Propane
Drip pan (or aluminum pan)
Water
Wood chips (optional)
Aluminum foil (optional)
Grill box (optional)

You’ll be cooking the turkey using indirect — not direct — heat. Essentially, this means the burner directly below the turkey will be turned off, and the burners beside the bird will be on.

Turkey, thawed
Paper towels
Kosher salt (optional)
Water (optional)
Large food-safe container (large enough to fit the turkey)
Canola oil or butter
Seasonings
Roasting rack
Aluminum foil pan
Oven mitts
Internal temperature gauge probe
Wood chips packet or grill box (optional)
Food thermometer

Avoid opening the grill! “Leave it alone to not disturb or fluctuate the cooking temperature,” Warner says.

Turkey Weight Servings Grilling Time 8-12 pounds 6-9 2 hrs. - 3 hrs. 30 mins. 12-14 pounds 9-11 3 hrs. - 4 hrs. 15 mins. 14-16 pounds 11-13 3 hrs. 30 mins. - 4 hrs. 45 mins.

Source: USDA

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