Go Back
–+ servings
Turkey breast brine in large pot ready for smoker or roaster.
Print Recipe
5 from 5 votes

Quick & Easy Smoked Turkey Breast Brine (FLAVORFUL!)

This simple, but oh so flavorful, Smoked Turkey Breast Brine is infused with the perfect blend of fruit and spices. It’s the best way to ensure a juicy turkey breast on Thanksgiving or any time of year. Plus it’s easily customizable!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time3 hours
Brining Time12 hours
Total Time15 hours 10 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 turkey breast
Calories: 837kcal
Author: Borrowed Bites

Equipment

  • large stock pot or 12 quart food storage container
  • smoker or charcoal grill

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup kosher salt
  • 32 ounce chicken stock
  • 4 cups apple juice
  • ¼ cup Montreal chicken seasoning
  • 1 turkey breast thawed, preferable bone-in
  • fresh fruit slices and fresh herbs optional

Instructions

  • Dissolve ¼ cup of kosher salt in 2 cups of warm water. Set aside to cool.
    ¼ cup kosher salt
  • Add cooled water, chicken stock, apple juice, and chicken seasoning to large stock pot or 12 quart food storage container. Stir in any of the variation ingredients if using. Stir thoroughly.
    32 ounce chicken stock, 4 cups apple juice, ¼ cup Montreal chicken seasoning, fresh fruit slices and fresh herbs
  • Place the turkey breast in the container. Add water until the turkey breast is just covered.
    1 turkey breast
  • Refrigerate for 12-14 hours.
  • Smoke over indirect heat at 275° for 3-4 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165° according to your smokers directions. Apple or cherry wood are great for this recipe.
  • Remove from smoker and tent loosely with foil for 20 minutes. Carve and serve.
  • We love comments! Please come back and leave us one after you’ve tried this recipe.

Notes

Tips & Tricks
  • Be sure to use a very flavorful chicken seasoning. It is going to impart much of the flavor. 
  • The brine can be made up to two days ahead and kept in the refrigerator.
  • Turn the turkey breast on it's side in order to use less water while it is brining.  
 
Variations
  • Add in a ½-1 cup of brown sugar, or honey, or maple syrup for additional sweetness.
  • Add in herbs like bay leaves, fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage.
  • Add in fruit, like sliced apples or oranges.
  • Add in red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Add in fresh aromatics like garlic or onions.
 
Make-Ahead
The brine can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1recipe of brine | Calories: 837kcal | Carbohydrates: 156g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 29635mg | Potassium: 2080mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 110g | Vitamin A: 498IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 298mg | Iron: 10mg