The Best Smoked Turkey Temperature Chart

Smoking a turkey can feel tricky if you do not know the right temps.

The bird is big, the cook time is long, and small mistakes can make it dry or unsafe.

This guide gives you the best smoked turkey temperature chart in a clear and simple way.

You will learn the ideal smoker temp, the best internal temps, and how to check for doneness.

Everything is written in easy words so you can follow along without stress.

Smoking a turkey should feel fun, not confusing.

When you use the right temperatures from start to finish, the turkey comes out juicy, tender, and full of smoky flavor.

This article will help you get there.

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What Is the Best Temperature to Smoke a Turkey?

Most people smoke turkey at 225°F to 250°F.

This range keeps the turkey moist while giving enough time for smoke to sink into the meat.

If you smoke at a higher heat, the skin may cook too fast.

If you smoke too low, the turkey stays in the “unsafe zone” for too long.

A simple plan is:

• Preheat smoker to 240°F

• Place turkey in the smoker breast side up

• Keep lid closed as much as possible

This temperature is safe, easy, and works for beginners and pros.

For a deeper reference, you can also check the full guide on Behind The Grill:

Best Smoked Turkey Temperature Chart.

The Best Smoked Turkey Temperature Chart

Here is the smoked turkey chart you can follow for almost any size turkey:

Use a good meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the breast and inner thigh for best results.

If you want more smoking charts for other meats, you can check 

this helpful guide:

Smoking Times and Temps Cheat Sheet: Quick Guide & Chart.

How Long to Smoke a Turkey

At 240°F, a turkey cooks in about 30 to 40 minutes per pound.

Here is an easy guide:

• 10 lb turkey: 5 to 6.5 hours

• 12 lb turkey: 6 to 8 hours

• 14 lb turkey: 7 to 9 hours

• 16 lb turkey: 8 to 10 hours

Do not cook only by time.

Always check the internal temp toward the end.

Why Internal Temperature Matters More Than Time

Turkey size, shape, and moisture vary.

Wood type and weather also change the cook; this is why time is not enough on its own.

Temperature tells the truth every time.

When the turkey breast reaches 160°F, remove it from the smoker.

It will rise about 5°F during the rest; this keeps the meat juicy and safe.

If you want deep flavor, you can also smoke the turkey with apple, cherry, or hickory wood.

A Tool That Helps You Track Temps Fast

If you want an easy way to check temps for turkey and other meats, the Easy Function Meat Smoking Guide Magnet is a simple option.

It sticks to your grill or fridge and shows clear temps for poultry, beef, pork, and fish; this helps you avoid undercooking or overcooking during long smokes.

It is helpful for beginners and busy home cooks because you can glance at the chart without needing a phone or cookbook.

Buy Easy Function Meat Smoking Guide - Amazon Canada

Buy Easy Function Meat Smoking Guide - Amazon USA

Tips to Keep Smoked Turkey Moist

Moist smoked turkey comes from steady heat and smart prep. 

Here are simple steps that match this chart:

Start with a dry turkey.

Apply a light coat of oil or butter.

Use salt or a dry brine.

Do not open the smoker often.

Let the turkey rest for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing.

Resting is very important; it keeps the juices inside the meat instead of spilling out onto the cutting board.

How to Check If the Turkey Is Done

Use a digital instant-read thermometer.

Insert it into:

• The thickest part of the breast

• The inner thigh (not touching bone)

If the breast reads 160°F and the thigh reads 170°F, you are done.

The bird can rest on the counter, covered lightly with foil.

Should You Spatchcock a Turkey?

Spatchcocking means removing the backbone so the turkey lays flat.

This reduces cook time and helps the meat cook evenly.

If you want smoky flavor but do not want a long cook, this is a great option.

The temperature chart stays the same; however, the cooking speeds up.

Final Thoughts

The best smoked turkey temperature chart is simple:

• Smoker temp: 225°F to 250°F

• Breast: 160°F to 165°F

• Thighs: 170°F to 175°F

Follow these numbers and your turkey will turn out juicy and safe every time.

This guide works on pellet grills, offset smokers, charcoal smokers, and electric smokers.

Once you learn the temps, smoking a big holiday turkey becomes easy and even fun.

If you want tools that make your cook even smoother, click the image to check out our Easy Function products.