Utah Smoked Honey Butter Turkey Breast

Introduction

This Utah Smoked Honey Butter Turkey Breast, grilled entirely on the Arteflame Grill, delivers juicy, smoky perfection with a caramelized butter glaze that locks in flavor. By reverse searing the turkey on the Arteflame’s 1,000°F center grate and then finishing it on the surrounding flat-top griddle, you create an evenly cooked, succulent turkey breast that is both visually stunning and mouthwateringly delicious. Perfect for any feast or weekend BBQ, this recipe captures the natural flavors of the turkey without using an oven or pans—just pure Arteflame magic.

Ingredients

• 1 boneless, skin-on turkey breast (about 3–4 lbs)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
• Wood chunks or firewood for grill (preferably hickory or apple)
• 3 paper napkins
• Vegetable oil (for lighting grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Soak 3 paper napkins in vegetable oil.
2. Place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack dry firewood or wood splits over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches around 1,000°F and the flat cooktop is hot.

Step 2: Prepare the smoked honey butter

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the turkey breast

1. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
2. Rub the smoked honey butter mixture thoroughly over the entire surface of the turkey breast, under the skin if possible for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Sear the turkey breast

1. Place the turkey breast skin-side down directly on the center grill grate to sear for 3-4 minutes. The high heat locks in the juices and gives it a beautiful crust.

Step 5: Move to the flat top griddle

1. Transfer the turkey breast skin-side up to the flat cooktop, closer to the outer edge for lower heat.
2. Continue cooking, rotating occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (it will rise to 165°F while resting).
3. Baste with more smoked honey butter halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Rest and slice

1. Remove the turkey breast from the grill and let it rest for 10–15 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute.
2. Slice and serve hot with any juices spooned over the top.

Tips

• Always remove turkey 15°F before it reaches its final desired temperature to avoid overcooking.
• Use hickory or apple wood for a sweet, smoky aroma.
• Keep a log of cooler vs. hotter zones on your Arteflame to manage heat better.
• Use real butter for grilling on the cooktop—it adds unmatched richness.
• Always rest the meat before slicing for ultimate juiciness.

Variations

1. Maple Cinnamon Turkey: Replace honey with maple syrup and add 1/2 tsp cinnamon for a sweet fall twist.
2. Chili Lime Turkey: Swap the honey butter with a blend of chili powder, lime juice, and zest for a zesty spin.
3. Herb Garlic Turkey: Mix the butter with rosemary, thyme, sage, and garlic for a traditional herbaceous roast flavor.
4. Smoked Orange Glaze Turkey: Add orange zest and juice to the butter-honey mixture for a citrusy brightness.
5. Bourbon Brown Sugar Turkey: Add 1 tbsp bourbon and substitute honey with brown sugar for a deep, smoky-sweet catering flavor.

Best pairings

• Grilled rosemary garlic potatoes on the Arteflame flat cooktop
• Charred Brussels sprouts tossed in melted butter and sea salt
• Smoked cornbread with butter and honey glaze
• Spicy grilled corn with cotija and lime
• Chilled apple cider or a smoky bourbon cocktail

Conclusion

Grilling a Utah Smoked Honey Butter Turkey Breast on the Arteflame is more than cooking—it's an experience. With the reverse sear technique locking in moisture and flavor while the flat griddle ensures a flawless finish, this recipe brings bold taste and juicy texture to your outdoor table. Whether you're celebrating a holiday or just a beautiful weekend in Utah, this dish will be the unforgettable centerpiece of your grill session.