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Grilled Turkey Cutlets with Smoky Herb Marinade

This recipe features quick-cooking turkey breast cutlets grilled over high heat to achieve a juicy, tender interior with a beautifully charred, smoky exterior. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and smoked paprika, the cutlets develop rich flavor and vibrant color, making them perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The final texture is moist and slightly crisp on the outside, with a succulent bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless turkey breast cutlets about 1/2 inch thick
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil for marinade and brushing
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for smoky flavor and color
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh, chopped

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs
  • Probe thermometer
  • Plate or platter

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 200°C (390°F), and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Pat the turkey cutlets dry with paper towels. If they’re uneven in thickness, gently pound them to about 1/2 inch uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and thyme to create your marinade.
  4. Brush or rub the marinade generously over both sides of each cutlet, making sure they’re well coated with fragrant herbs and smoky spices.
  5. Let the coated cutlets sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to absorb flavors and begin tenderizing.
  6. Place the cutlets on the hot grill, laying them carefully to hear a satisfying sizzle. Grill for about 3–4 minutes on each side, until deep golden brown with visible grill marks.
  7. Flip the cutlets with tongs once they develop a deep sear, and continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
  8. Use a probe thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring they’re cooked through but still juicy.
  9. Once cooked, transfer the cutlets to a plate and loosely cover with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  10. Slice the cutlets against the grain if desired, then serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of herbs for extra brightness.