It’s no secret that oven-roasted turkey has always taken center-stage on Thanksgiving, but imagine having Thanksgiving turkey with a hint of smoky flavor, thanks to the grill. Chandra Ram, associate editorial director of food at Food & Wine, can't stop singing the praises of this novel culinary experience. “The turkey on the grill took on a slightly smoky flavor and its skin turned crispy and golden brown. It also meant that we could bake bread, stuffing, and pie in the oven and keep everything warm before dinner, plus it was a terrific talking point and got people moving around,” she explained.

The culinary marvel, grilled turkey, isn’t just a passing fancy. Matt Bolus, chef and partner at The 404 Kitchen in Nashville, has been grilling his turkey for a decade and is also an ardent advocate. On top of the supreme flavor, grilling allows you the chance to experiment and play with flavors. “You can mix in different woods, like pecan or apple, for a smoky touch. Whole herbs can be thrown in the coals or placed in a drip tray underneath the turkey, infusing the drippings for gravy with the flavors,” Bolus offers a culinary tip.

What sets grilled turkey apart, besides the taste, is the convenience of accurate temperature monitoring, thanks to built-in grill thermometers. As Bolus suggests, compared to ovens with inconsistent temperature parameters, grills make tracking turkey’s temperature through the long cooking time a breeze.

However, the notion of grilling a turkey can be a daunting one. The assurance is, it’s simpler than it appears. Food & Wine recipe developer, Melissa Gray, shares some advice. An absolute must-have is a reliable instant-read thermometer to measure the internal temperature of your grilled masterpiece. And don’t forget grill gloves to effortlessly handle the hot turkey. Disposable aluminum casserole or baking trays can double as drip trays.

The primary challenge lies in maintaining the temperature. A lesser-known fact is that if the grill stays too hot, the turkey risks being overcooked, resulting in tough, dry meat. On the other hand, keeping it lower might mean a longer cooking time or undercooked poultry. Ensure a clean, properly fueled grill and preheat it at your preferred temperature for a minimum of five minutes before placing the turkey.

In short, by simply following these guidelines, you may turn grilled turkey into your new Thanksgiving tradition.