Smoking a Whole Turkey

Step 1

Remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Brush the legs, breast, and wings with butter.

Step 2

Place one large disposable foil pan inside the other and add vegetables, herbs, and 2 cups of chicken broth.

Step 3

Arrange the charcoal in a half circle on one side of the charcoal grate. A large disposable foil pan filled with warm water will help you maintain the temperature of the fire.

Step 4

Place the turkey, breast side down, inside the foil pans and over the vegetables.

Step 5

Add damp wood chips to the charcoal and set the pan on the cooking grate over the water pan, with the legs facing the hottest side of the grill.

Step 6

Keep the grill temperature inside the range of 350° to 400°F, adding charcoal as needed.

Step 7

After grilling for 1 hour, flip over the turkey so that the breast side is facing up.

Step 8

Continue grilling and smoking the turkey, occasionally adding damp wood chips.

Step 9

After the turkey has been on the grill for 1½ hours, cover any parts that are getting too dark. The turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching the bone) registers 170° to 175°F. Transfer the turkey to a platter and let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes (the internal temperature will rise 5 to 10 degrees during this time).