There’s nothing quite like the centerpiece of a beautifully roasted turkey breast to elevate your table. This recipe is perfect for those who want all the classic flavors of a Thanksgiving turkey without committing to a whole bird. With its tender, juicy meat and irresistibly crispy skin, this dish is both simple to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a hearty family dinner, this roasted turkey breast is bound to impress.
PrintRoasted Turkey Breast
Its tender, juicy meat and irresistibly crispy skin, this dish is both simple to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a hearty family dinner, this roasted turkey breast is bound to impress.
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 5-pound bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage leaves
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring to Room Temperature:
- Let the turkey stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the turkey from drying out.
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray. Spread the lemon slices evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Make the Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the butter, garlic, thyme, sage, and rosemary. Mix until well blended.
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Using your fingers, carefully loosen the skin from the breast meat. Spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin. Secure the skin over the butter with wooden picks to keep it in place.
- Place the turkey, breast side up, on top of the lemon slices in the baking dish.
- Spread the remaining butter mixture evenly over the skin. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Roast the Turkey:
- Place the turkey in the oven and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
- Rest the Turkey:
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat when carving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Carve the turkey breast and serve warm. Pair with your favorite gravy, cranberry sauce, or seasonal side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Temperature Matters: Ensure the turkey is at room temperature before cooking to avoid uneven roasting.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Allowing the turkey to rest after roasting is crucial for retaining its juices.
- Monitor Closely: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. The ideal temperature is 165°F for perfectly cooked turkey breast.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Only 15-20 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy cooks.
- Full of Flavor: The herb-infused butter and zesty lemon slices impart a depth of flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
- Perfectly Juicy: Cooking the turkey breast with the bone and skin ensures moist and succulent meat.
Ingredients
- 5-pound bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage leaves
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring to Room Temperature:
- Let the turkey stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the turkey from drying out.
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray. Spread the lemon slices evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Make the Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the butter, garlic, thyme, sage, and rosemary. Mix until well blended.
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Using your fingers, carefully loosen the skin from the breast meat. Spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin. Secure the skin over the butter with wooden picks to keep it in place.
- Place the turkey, breast side up, on top of the lemon slices in the baking dish.
- Spread the remaining butter mixture evenly over the skin. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Roast the Turkey:
- Place the turkey in the oven and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
- Rest the Turkey:
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat when carving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Carve the turkey breast and serve warm. Pair with your favorite gravy, cranberry sauce, or seasonal side dishes for a complete meal.
Flavor and Texture
This roasted turkey breast delivers a harmonious balance of flavors. The herb butter, infused with garlic and fresh thyme, sage, and rosemary, creates a savory, aromatic crust. The lemon slices add a subtle citrus brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter. With every bite, you’ll experience tender, juicy meat encased in golden, crispy skin.
Tips for Success
- Temperature Matters: Ensure the turkey is at room temperature before cooking to avoid uneven roasting.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Allowing the turkey to rest after roasting is crucial for retaining its juices.
- Monitor Closely: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. The ideal temperature is 165°F for perfectly cooked turkey breast.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb Swap: Feel free to substitute fresh herbs with dried ones. Use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs as fresh.
- Citrus Twist: Swap the lemon slices for orange or lime for a different citrus profile.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the herb butter for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a rich turkey gravy.
- Light and Fresh: Pair with a crisp green salad and a citrus vinaigrette for a lighter meal.
- Leftover Magic: Use leftover turkey to make sandwiches, salads, or a comforting turkey soup.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze carved turkey in portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through to retain moisture.
Final Thoughts
This roasted turkey breast is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or craving a festive meal, this recipe delivers every time. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and savor the magic of a perfectly roasted turkey breast—crispy skin and all!