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Healthy Grilled Turkey Tenderloin Recipe Easy Juicy Lean Perfection

healthy grilled turkey tenderloin - featured image

A quick, simple, and forgiving grilled turkey tenderloin recipe that delivers juicy, lean, and perfectly seasoned meat, ideal for healthy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds turkey tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 cup water (for quick brine, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Quick Brine (Optional, 30 minutes): In a bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon salt in 1 cup cold water. Submerge the turkey tenderloin and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Make the Marinade (5 minutes): Combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and honey in a bowl. Whisk until well mixed.
  3. Marinate the Turkey (At least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours): Remove the tenderloin from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and place in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over it, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Turkey Tenderloin (12-15 minutes): Place the tenderloin on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, turning once. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest the Meat (5-10 minutes): Remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil.
  7. Slice and Serve: Cut the tenderloin into ½-inch slices against the grain. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Use a quick brine to retain moisture. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for best flavor. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let the meat rest before slicing to keep it juicy. If no grill is available, roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled turkey tenderloin, healthy turkey recipe, lean protein, quick dinner, easy grilling, juicy turkey, weeknight meal