How Long Does It Take to Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey?

How Long Does It Take to Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey?

If you’ve been searching for the perfect way to prepare a smoked turkey, the spatchcock method might just be your new favorite technique. How long does it take to smoke a spatchcock turkey? The answer is clear: by flattening the bird, you can drastically reduce cooking time while ensuring even cooking, crispy skin, and juicy meat. A spatchcock turkey typically smokes in 4 to 5 hours, depending on its size and the smoker’s temperature. This method is quick, efficient, and guarantees that no part of the turkey is over or undercooked.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the benefits of spatchcocking, step-by-step preparation, and exactly how long you need to smoke your turkey to perfection. By the end, you’ll feel confident tackling this method and serving a smoked spatchcock turkey that’s guaranteed to impress.

What is a Spatchcock Turkey?

Before diving into the process and timing, it’s important to understand what spatchcocking a turkey actually means. Spatchcocking is a cooking technique that involves:

• Removing the backbone of the turkey with kitchen shears or a sharp knife.
• Flattening the bird by pressing down on the breastbone.

The result is a turkey that cooks faster, more evenly, and absorbs smoky flavors more efficiently.

For those curious about the origins and purpose of this method, you can read more in this guide on what is spatchcock turkey?.

Why Should You Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey?

Smoking a turkey the traditional way—whole—has its challenges. A large whole turkey takes 6-8 hours or longer to cook at low temperatures, and uneven cooking often occurs. Here’s why spatchcocking is the ideal solution:

1. Faster Cooking Times
2. A spatchcocked turkey exposes more surface area to the smoker, cutting cooking times in half. A 12-14 lb spatchcock turkey can be ready in as little as 4-5 hours at 240°F.
3. Even Heat Distribution
4. Flattening the bird includes that the breasts, thighs, and wings all cook at the same rate. This prevents overcooking the breast meat, which is common with whole turkeys.
5. Better Skin Texture
6. With the skin spread evenly across the bird, it crisps up beautifully, delivering that golden, crispy skin that everyone craves.
7. Improved Smoke Penetration
8. The flattened surface area allows the smoke to circulate evenly, infusing the meat with rich, smoky flavor.

If you’re debating between cooking methods, this comparison on smoking whole vs. spatchcocked turkey offers valuable insight.

How Long Does It Take to Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey?

The time it takes to smoke a spatchcock turkey depends primarily on two factors: the weight of the bird and the smoker’s temperature. Below are general guidelines:

• At 240°F (116°C):

• 10-12 lb turkey: 3.5 to 4 hours
• 12-14 lb turkey: 4 to 5 hours
• At 275°F (135°C):

• 10-12 lb turkey: 2.5 to 3 hours
• 12-14 lb turkey: 3.5 to 4 hours

To include food safety and perfect doneness:

• The breast meat should reach an internal temperature of 160-165°F.
• The thighs should reach 170°F.

Using a reliable meat thermometer is essential to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Always check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast and thighs.

How to Smoke a Spatchcock Turkey: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Spatchcock the Turkey

To spatchcock the turkey, follow these steps:

• Place the fully thawed turkey breast-side down on a cutting board.
• Use sharp kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it.
• Flip the turkey breast-side up and firmly press down on the breastbone until the bird flattens.

Pro Tip: If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, most butchers will spatchcock the turkey for you.

2. Brine the Turkey for Maximum Flavor

Brining adds moisture and flavor, ensuring your turkey remains juicy during the smoking process. You can choose between:

• Wet Brine: Submerge the turkey in a mixture of salt, water, and optional herbs for 8-12 hours.
• Dry Brine: Rub the turkey generously with salt and let it sit uncovered in the fridge for 12-24 hours.

Both methods boost the flavor and texture of the meat.

3. Season with Herb Butter

An herb butter rub takes the flavor to the next level. To make it, mix:

• 1 stick of softened butter
• 3 cloves of minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons of chopped sage, thyme, and parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Apply:

• Loosen the skin and spread half of the butter mixture underneath.
• Rub the remaining butter over the outer skin.

4. Prepare the Smoker

Preheat your smoker to your desired temperature:

• 240°F for low and slow cooking
• 275°F for slightly faster results

Choose mild smoking woods such as applewood, cherry, or pecan for a balanced flavor. Avoid overly strong woods like mesquite, as they can overpower the turkey.

5. Smoke the Spatchcock Turkey

• Place the flattened turkey skin-side up on the smoker grate.
• Monitor the smoker temperature and add wood chips as needed to maintain consistent smoke.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness:
  • Breast: 160-165°F
  • Thighs: 170°F

6. Rest and Carve

Once the turkey reaches the correct temperature, remove it from the smoker and tent it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes to let the juices redistribute.

To carve the spatchcock turkey:

1. Remove the leg quarters and wings.
2. Slice the breast meat into thin, even pieces.

Serving Suggestions

Your perfectly smoked spatchcock turkey deserves equally delicious side dishes. Pair it with this moist and sweet pumpkin banana loaf or serve it alongside freshly baked Earl Grey cookies for dessert. These dishes complement the smoky flavor beautifully and complete the meal.

Final Thoughts

So, how long does it take to smoke a spatchcock turkey? The answer is clear: with a smoker set to 240°F to 275°F, a 12-14 lb spatchcocked turkey will be ready in 4-5 hours. By removing the backbone and flattening the bird, you include faster cooking times, even heat distribution, and a crispy, flavorful result.

The spatchcock method is the ultimate solution for a tender, juicy, and perfectly smoked turkey. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a weekend feast, this technique guarantees impressive results every time. Follow this step-by-step guide, use a reliable thermometer, and pair your turkey with sides that shine.

Happy smoking!