So, if you’re feeling a little weirded out by the thought of using a syringe in the kitchen, I totally understand. I felt the same way at first. But after you get used to wielding the new instrument and injecting the turkey with this marinade, you’ll be blown away by the flavor and feel like an absolute chef! 🧑🍳 Let me elaborate on that amazing flavor. Think already super-satisfying savory turkey meat, but infused with butter, lemon, a touch of sugar, and all the herby goodness you can imagine. Even the smell of it will literally make your mouth water. 🤤
Recipe Ingredients
How to Make Turkey Injector Marinade
Make the Marinade
Heat the Liquids – In a medium saucepan, add butter, chicken stock, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, onion and garlic powder, thyme, oregano, sage, chicken bouillon powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. (Photos 1-2) Stir ingredients over medium-high heat until the butter is completely melted. Rest – Remove your marinade from the heat and let it cool for 8-10 minutes.
Inject the Turkey
Fill the Injector – Use a meat injector or large syringe to draw in the marinade and fill up the syringe. (Photo 3) Remove Air – Turn the injector needle side up and release any excess air that floats to the top. Inject – Carefully inject small amounts of the marinade into different parts of the turkey. (Photo 4) Chill – Let the turkey rest in the fridge for up to 48 hours before cooking.
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead Instructions
Make your marinade up to two days in advance if you’d like, and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Before using it, just warm everything up in the saucepan again. You’ll need the butter to be fully melted for smooth injecting,
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftover marinade, it’s best to discard it. The syringe will touch the uncooked turkey and then enter the marinade again to fill up, which means it will basically become contaminated with raw poultry. Don’t keep that bacteria breeder hanging around your fridge!
What Goes With Marinade-Infused Turkey
Once your turkey is injected with the marinade and roasting in the oven, it’s time to think about the sides! I love to complement turkey with classic Southern dishes like green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. It also pairs wonderfully with cozy desserts. Try serving sweet potato casserole or pecan pie as a follow-up. Although, lots of folks will tell you sweet potato casserole is a side, not a dessert, and they might be right. 🙈
More Tantalizing Turkey Recipes to Try
Conclusion
Well, my friend, you are now ready to confidently wield that big old meat injector. If you’d like to master more fun kitchen techniques and take your cooking game to the next level, let’s connect on Facebook or Instagram. I hope to see you there. 😊
