Home/Meats/Grilled Turkey Thigh
Back to Home
Grilled Turkey Thigh
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Grilled Turkey Thigh

Meleagris gallopavo

Clinical Encyclopedia

Grilled turkey thigh is a flavorful and juicy cut of meat that is rich in protein and essential nutrients. It is a popular choice for those seeking a lean source of animal protein.

Scientific NameMeleagris gallopavo
Region of OriginNorth America
Popular Comparisons:
Grilled Turkey Thigh VS AbaloneGrilled Turkey Thigh VS Alligator TailGrilled Turkey Thigh VS Alligator Tail MeatGrilled Turkey Thigh VS Fried Alligator Tail MeatGrilled Turkey Thigh VS Alpaca Loin SteakGrilled Turkey Thigh VS Spicy Andouille Sausage

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories169 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total31.0g
Protein
24g(77%)
Fats
7g(23%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

✓High in protein, grilled turkey thigh supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
✓Rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and vitamin B6, which are essential for energy metabolism and brain health.
✓Contains selenium, an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports immune function.
✓Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption of processed turkey products may lead to high sodium intake, which can contribute to hypertension.
!Individuals with poultry allergies should avoid turkey products to prevent allergic reactions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled or roasted, seasoned with herbs and spices. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose turkey thighs that are firm to the touch with a fresh, mild smell. Look for a pinkish color without any discoloration.

How to Store

Store raw turkey in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for longer periods. Cooked turkey should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythTurkey makes you sleepy.+
RealityWhile turkey contains tryptophan, the amount is not sufficient to cause sleepiness; overall meal size and composition play a larger role.
MythAll turkey is dry and tasteless.+
RealityWhen cooked properly, turkey, especially dark meat like the thigh, can be very juicy and flavorful.
MythTurkey is unhealthy due to its fat content.+
RealityTurkey is a lean meat option, and the fat content is lower than many other meats, especially when skin is removed.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Grilled Turkey Thighs

Juicy grilled turkey thighs marinated in a zesty Mediterranean blend of herbs and spices, served with a side of quinoa salad.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (juiced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 cucumber (diced)
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Marinate turkey thighs for at least 1 hour.
  2. 2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill turkey thighs for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
  3. 3. In a separate bowl, combine quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta. Serve turkey thighs over the quinoa salad.

Spicy BBQ Grilled Turkey Thighs

Tender turkey thighs grilled to perfection with a homemade spicy BBQ sauce, perfect for a summer cookout.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 1/2 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Brush turkey thighs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side.
  3. 3. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush turkey thighs with the BBQ sauce mixture and cook until caramelized.

Herb and Garlic Grilled Turkey Thighs

Flavorful grilled turkey thighs infused with fresh herbs and garlic, served with a side of steamed vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
Instructions
  1. 1. Combine garlic, parsley, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Rub the mixture over turkey thighs.
  2. 2. Preheat grill to medium heat and grill turkey thighs for 7-8 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  3. 3. Steam mixed vegetables until tender and serve alongside the grilled turkey.

Citrus Glazed Grilled Turkey Thighs

Grilled turkey thighs with a refreshing citrus glaze, offering a burst of flavor and a healthy twist.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 1 orange (juiced and zested)
  • 1 lime (juiced)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, honey, ginger, salt, and pepper. Marinate turkey thighs for 1 hour.
  2. 2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill turkey thighs for 6-8 minutes per side.
  3. 3. Brush with citrus glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for a shiny finish.

Asian-Inspired Grilled Turkey Thighs

Savory grilled turkey thighs marinated in a soy-ginger sauce, served with a side of brown rice and steamed bok choy.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • 2 cups bok choy (steamed)
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and honey in a bowl. Marinate turkey thighs for at least 1 hour.
  2. 2. Preheat grill to medium heat and grill turkey thighs for 7-8 minutes per side.
  3. 3. Serve turkey thighs over brown rice with steamed bok choy on the side.

Grilled Turkey Thigh Tacos

Delicious grilled turkey thighs served in corn tortillas with fresh toppings for a healthy twist on tacos.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 cup cabbage (shredded)
  • 1 avocado (sliced)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
  • Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Rub turkey thighs with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill turkey thighs for 6-8 minutes per side.
  3. 3. Slice turkey and serve in corn tortillas topped with cabbage, avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Grilled Turkey Thigh Salad

A hearty salad featuring grilled turkey thighs, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 cup red onion (sliced)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Rub turkey thighs with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
  3. 3. Slice grilled turkey and place on top of the salad. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette before serving.

Grilled Turkey Thigh and Vegetable Skewers

Colorful skewers of grilled turkey thighs and seasonal vegetables, perfect for a healthy outdoor meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs (cubed)
  • 1 bell pepper (cubed)
  • 1 zucchini (sliced)
  • 1 red onion (cubed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine turkey, bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Thread turkey and vegetables onto skewers. Preheat grill to medium heat.
  3. 3. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until turkey is cooked through.

Grilled Turkey Thigh with Mango Salsa

Succulent grilled turkey thighs topped with a fresh mango salsa, offering a tropical twist to your meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 turkey thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 mango (diced)
  • 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 lime (juiced)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Rub turkey thighs with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve grilled turkey thighs topped with mango salsa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is grilled turkey thigh healthy?

Yes, it is a healthy source of lean protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals.

How should I store grilled turkey thigh?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What is the best way to cook turkey thigh?

Grilling or roasting are excellent methods to retain moisture and flavor.

Can I eat turkey thigh on a low-carb diet?

Yes, turkey thigh is low in carbohydrates and fits well into low-carb diets.

How much protein is in grilled turkey thigh?

A 100g serving contains approximately 24g of protein.

What are the health benefits of turkey?

Turkey is rich in protein, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium, supporting overall health.

Is turkey thigh more flavorful than turkey breast?

Yes, turkey thigh is generally more flavorful and juicy due to its higher fat content.

Can I use turkey thigh in soups and stews?

Absolutely, turkey thigh adds rich flavor and texture to soups and stews.

Related Superfoods
Abalone Alaska Plaice Fillet Albacore Tuna
Comparisons
Grilled Turkey Thigh vs Abalone Grilled Turkey Thigh vs Alligator Tail Grilled Turkey Thigh vs Alligator Tail Meat
Nutrients
Protein in Grilled Turkey Thigh Calories in Grilled Turkey Thigh Vitamin-c in Grilled Turkey Thigh Magnesium in Grilled Turkey Thigh
Featured Guides
Health Benefits of Grilled Turkey Thigh Healthy Recipes with Grilled Turkey Thigh