Turkey Injection Recipe

turkey injection liquid and an injector in a measuring cup in front of a turkey in a roaster pan.

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This easy turkey injection recipe blends butter, lemon, broth, garlic, and a little zing to keep your turkey juicy and flavorful. Perfect for roasted, smoked, or fried turkey and ready in just minutes.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 73kcal

Author: Cara Lanz

Equipment

Ingredients

½ cup butter
½ cup lemon juice
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Melt butter in the microwave. Add the rest of the ingredients and briefly warm until it whisks together into a cohesive mixture. Let it cool to room temperature.
Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan. Fill the injector by inserting the syringe into the liquid and pulling the plunger up. Inject the mixture all over into the thickest parts of the turkey from different angles. Insert about 2 teaspoons of liquid per injection.
Some liquid may leak out of the holes. That's okay, you can wipe it away or rub it into the skin, if you like.
Place the turkey in the fridge and allow it to marinate for 12-36 hours. For crispy skin, leave the turkey uncovered for up to 24 hours.
Roast, smoke, or deep fry the turkey, as desired.

Notes

You can also melt the butter and warm the liquid in a small saucepan over medium heat.
If liquid leaks out of the holes, wipe it away or rub it over the surface of the turkey.
Whisk the injection liquid together if it separates.
If you add herbs to the marinade, you may need to use a larger needle injector to prevent clogging.
For maximum flavor, inject up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate.

Nutrition