Spatchcock Thanksgiving Turkey on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Cooking a Thanksgiving turkey on an Arteflame grill transforms your holiday centerpiece into something unforgettable—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, and infused with smoky flavor you can’t get from the oven. This spatchcock method not only speeds up the cooking time but also ensures even roasting across the entire bird. If you’re searching for an easier, more flavorful approach to Thanksgiving turkey, this guide walks you through every step with simplicity and confidence. Perfect for holiday hosts who want big flavor with minimal stress.

Ingredients

Turkey and Seasoning

• 1 whole turkey (12–15 lbs), spatchcocked
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried sage

Aromatics

• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 onion, halved
• 6 garlic cloves, smashed

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

1. Pat the turkey dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. Trim any excess fat and remove the backbone if not pre-spatchcocked.
3. Flatten the turkey by pressing firmly on the breastbone.

Step 2: Season Generously

1. Combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and sage.
2. Brush the turkey with olive oil.
3. Rub the seasoning blend all over the turkey, including under the skin where possible.

Step 3: Heat the Arteflame Grill

1. Preheat the Arteflame to medium-high heat.
2. Allow the cooktop to reach an even temperature across the surface.
3. Place aromatics in a small mound to create fragrant steam.

Step 4: Grill the Turkey

1. Lay the turkey flat on the cooktop, skin side down.
2. Sear for several minutes until the skin begins to crisp.
3. Move to indirect heat or a cooler zone to finish cooking.
4. Cook until the breast reaches 160°F and thighs 170°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board.
2. Let rest for at least 15 minutes.
3. Carve and serve with your favorite Thanksgiving sides.

Tips

Mastering a spatchcock turkey on the Arteflame grill is all about preparation and temperature control. Keeping the heat steady ensures perfectly even cooking from edge to edge. Seasoning under the skin adds deeper flavor, and a thorough pat-dry helps you achieve a richly crisp exterior. Spatchcocking also reduces cooking time, preventing the breast from drying out. For added depth, try adding hardwood chunks near the fire for a gentle infusion of smoky aroma.

Variations

Once you perfect the basic spatchcock turkey, try switching up the flavors to create new experiences each holiday. Whether you prefer bright citrus profiles or bold barbecue, adapting the seasoning keeps the tradition fresh year after year. These variations work beautifully on the Arteflame grill and enhance the natural richness of the turkey.

• Citrus herb rub with orange zest
• Maple and bourbon glaze
• Spicy Cajun-style seasoning
• Garlic butter rosemary baste
• Smoky chipotle and lime rub

Best pairings

A beautifully grilled turkey deserves sides and beverages that match its deep, smoky flavor. Traditional Thanksgiving dishes blend seamlessly with the Arteflame’s fire-kissed finish, while refreshing drinks help balance the richness. Choose a mix of bright, savory, and earthy pairings to complete your meal and keep guests coming back for seconds.

• Roasted root vegetables
• Cranberry-orange relish
• Grilled Brussels sprouts
• Buttery mashed potatoes
• Chardonnay or spiced apple cider

Conclusion

Spatchcocking your turkey and grilling it on the Arteflame creates a holiday centerpiece that’s faster, crispier, and more flavorful than traditional roasting. With simple preparation and even cooking, this method guarantees tender slices with incredible depth of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or an intimate dinner, this recipe brings warmth and excitement to your Thanksgiving table.

Once you try grilling your turkey this way, it may become your new holiday tradition—one that captures both the comfort of classic cooking and the joy of outdoor fire-grilling.