Grilled Turkey Tenderloin is both flavorful and simple to prepare. Tenderloins are seasoned with a straightforward spice rub, then finished with a brush of barbecue sauce for a savory, caramelized glaze.
This easy grilled turkey tenderloin recipe requires only minutes of hands-on prep and grills up quickly, making it perfect for weeknights, summer barbecues, or a smaller holiday meal. The result is juicy, tender turkey with bold, balanced flavor.
If you enjoy grilled turkey, try other simple turkey preparations like smoked turkey, Blackstone turkey breast, or grilled turkey breast tenderloins.
What’s in this post: Grilled Turkey Tenderloin
- Why This Recipe Works
- Ingredients
- How to Make Grilled Turkey Tenderloin
- Expert Tips
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Grilled Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Why This Recipe Works
This preparation highlights turkey’s natural flavor while keeping the meat tender. The dry rub forms a tasty crust, and finishing with barbecue sauce near the end adds a sticky, savory-sweet layer without burning. Tenderloins are small, lean, and cook quickly, so they’re ideal for the grill.
Ingredients
- Turkey Breast Tenderloins – Use the quantity needed for your family; recipe card shows a suggested amount.
- Olive Oil – Avocado or vegetable oil work well for greasing the grill.
- Barbecue Sauce – Use your favorite bottled sauce or a homemade version for best results.
Full measurements and the complete ingredient list are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Grilled Turkey Tenderloin
- Step 1 – Preheat the grill to high heat. Lightly oil the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Step 2 – Combine the rub ingredients in a small bowl.
- Step 3 – Pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Step 4 – Sprinkle and rub the seasoning mixture over the tenderloins so they are evenly coated.
- Step 5 – Place the tenderloins directly on the grill grates.
- Step 6 – Close the lid and grill 8–10 minutes per side, or until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 7 – In the last few minutes of cooking, brush about 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce on both sides to glaze.
- Step 8 – Remove the tenderloins from the grill and let them rest 20–30 minutes so juices redistribute.
- Step 9 – Slice and serve with the remaining barbecue sauce. Enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Use a thermometer – An instant-read thermometer ensures the turkey reaches a safe 165°F without overcooking.
- When to add sauce – Apply BBQ sauce in the final minutes to build flavor while preventing the sugars from burning.
- Rest before slicing – Resting the meat for 20–30 minutes locks in juices and improves texture.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled turkey tenderloin pairs well with simple grilled sides for an easy, complete meal. Try serving with grilled peaches, campfire potatoes, grilled broccoli in foil, bacon-wrapped asparagus, or corn on the cob in the husk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turkey breast is a larger cut and may include bone; tenderloin is smaller, leaner, and boneless.
Grill over medium-high heat (around 400°F). Tenderloins typically take about 30 minutes total; always verify with a thermometer and rest 20 minutes before slicing.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat gently in a baking dish in the oven for about 10 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
More Easy Turkey Recipes
Smoked Turkey Legs
Smoked Bone-In Turkey Breast
We’d love to hear how yours turns out. If you make Grilled Turkey Tenderloin, please leave a comment or a star rating.
Grilled Turkey Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Turkey Breast Tenderloins
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce divided
For the Rub:
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme Leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
Instructions
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Preheat a grill over high heat. Rub the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Mix the rub ingredients together in a small bowl.
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Pat the turkey tenderloins dry with paper towels.
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Sprinkle the rub over the turkey and massage it in so the pieces are evenly coated.
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Place the tenderloins directly on the grill grates.
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Cook for 8–10 minutes per side until the thickest part reaches 165°F.
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During the last few minutes of cooking, brush 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce on both sides to glaze.
-
Remove from the grill and let the tenderloins rest 20–30 minutes.
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Slice and serve with remaining barbecue sauce.
Recipe Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
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