Maple-Dijon Grilled Turkey Thighs for Thanksgiving
Cooking Thanksgiving dinner for four? Put maple-Dijon turkey thighs on the grill and keep the oven free for stuffing, rolls, or pie. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are a good choice for guests who always reach for dark meat. The glaze gets its sweetness from maple syrup, with Dijon mustard and cider vinegar to keep it tangy.
Maple-Dijon Grilled Turkey Thighs for Thanksgiving
Serves: 4 | Prep: 15 minutes | Grill: About 45–65 minutes | Rest: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 fully thawed bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs, about 3–4 pounds total
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or other neutral oil
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or less if the turkey is pre-brined
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage, plus a few leaves for serving
1. Set up the grill for indirect heat
Preheat a gas grill with the burners on one side lit and the burners on the other side off. Close the lid and adjust the lit burners until the grill holds around 375°F. On a charcoal grill, bank the coals to one side and cook the turkey on the other.
2. Season and grill the turkey thighs
Pat the thighs dry with paper towels. Rub with oil, then season with salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Place them skin-side up on the unlit side, leaving room between each piece. Close the lid. Start checking the internal temperature after about 35 minutes; larger thighs can take longer.
3. Brush on the glaze near the end
Whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon, cider vinegar, and sage. When the thighs are nearing doneness, brush on a thin layer and leave them over indirect heat for another 5–10 minutes so the glaze can set. If you want extra glaze for serving, set some aside before the brush touches the turkey.
4. Check each thigh and let it rest
Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of each thigh without touching bone. Turkey must reach at least 165°F, per FoodSafety.gov’s poultry temperature guidance. Use the thermometer to decide when to pull each piece. Transfer the thighs to a clean platter and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
What to Serve With Grilled Turkey Thighs
Pair the turkey with cornbread dressing, green beans, and tart cranberry sauce. If you’re hosting a bigger Thanksgiving, grill a batch of thighs alongside your usual turkey so there’s plenty of dark meat to go around.
Can You Prep Thanksgiving Turkey Thighs Ahead?
Yes. Mix and refrigerate the glaze the day before, and keep the turkey refrigerated until you’re ready to season and grill it. If the turkey is pre-brined or labeled as containing a salt solution, use less salt in the rub.
Planning an Outdoor Kitchen for Holiday Cooking?
A two-zone grill setup lets you roast the turkey while the oven handles the sides. If you’re planning an outdoor kitchen, compare grill packages and leave a spot beside the grill for a clean platter, thermometer, and serving utensils.
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