Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
If a golden, succulent turkey that wows the crowd and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas is your idea of a holiday centerpiece, you’ll love this Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe. This foolproof method guarantees a moist and flavorful turkey breast every time, making it ideal whether you’re cooking for a small gathering or simply craving a slice of classic comfort. Juicy meat, crispy skin, and so much savory flavor — it’s a turkey triumph that’ll be on repeat in your home long beyond Thanksgiving!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is chosen with care to ensure your turkey breast is seasoned to perfection and roasted to juicy excellence. Simple doesn’t mean boring—these pantry staples and fresh additions elevate every bite!
- Bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (4 to 5 pounds): The star of the show! Keeping the bone and skin ensures maximum flavor and moisture.
- Olive oil or melted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds rich taste and encourages that dream-worthy, crispy skin.
- Salt (1 tablespoon): Essential for bringing out all the savory flavors and keeping the turkey tender.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Lends a gentle heat and depth to the overall seasoning.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Guarantees a rounded, subtle garlic kick without overpowering the turkey.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Balances the other spices and enhances the background savoriness.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Infuses the turkey with a classic herbaceous note that just says “holiday.”
- Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Offers a woodsy, aromatic taste that feels elegant and rustic.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth and a beautiful, appetizing color to the skin.
- Garlic cloves (4, smashed): Nestled under the breast, these slow-roast for fabulous flavor.
- Onion (1, quartered): Helps create a sweet, savory base and keeps the turkey juicy.
- Lemon (1, quartered): Brightens every bite and keeps the meat fresh-tasting and aromatic.
- Chicken or turkey broth (1 cup): Adds extra juiciness and forms the basis for luscious pan juices.
How to Make Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even roasting from the get-go. Pat the turkey breast thoroughly dry with paper towels—this step is key for crispy skin. Place your turkey breast in a sturdy roasting pan or a deep baking dish, setting the stage for a flavorful transformation.
Step 2: Mix the Herby Butter (or Oil)
In a small bowl, blend the olive oil or melted butter with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. This aromatic mixture is like a spa treatment for your turkey breast—making sure every bite bursts with flavor and the skin develops that crave-worthy crisp and gorgeous golden hue.
Step 3: Season Under and Over the Skin
Now comes the fun (and slightly messy) part! Gently lift the skin wherever possible and rub some of your seasoning mix directly onto the meat underneath—this infuses the turkey breast with flavor throughout. Then, massage the rest all over the skin for crispiness and deep taste all over.
Step 4: Stuff and Add Aromatics
Tuck those smashed garlic cloves, quartered onion, and lemon pieces underneath the breast. This trick steams the turkey from below, ensures juicy results, and infuses every slice with gentle sweetness and citrus brightness. Pour the broth into the bottom of the pan so your turkey stays deliciously moist as it roasts.
Step 5: Roast to Juicy Perfection
Roast uncovered for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on size. Every once in a while, baste your turkey with pan juices to keep it moist and help develop a glossy, caramelized finish. The Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe is done when a thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
This last step is a must: let the turkey breast rest uncovered for 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing every slice remains irresistibly moist and tender. Serve while warm, spooning over those flavorful pan juices or your favorite homemade gravy.
How to Serve Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Go the extra mile by garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sage, a scattering of pomegranate arils for a pop of color, and a few lemon wedges for brightness. The finishing touches make your Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe as stunning as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This turkey breast pairs beautifully with traditional favorites like creamy mashed potatoes, garlicky green beans, fluffy stuffing, or roasted root vegetables. Don’t forget the cranberry sauce—its vibrant tang is the perfect counterpoint to this juicy, savory turkey.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, arrange carved slices on a pretty platter with fresh herbs and roasted citrus. Or turn leftovers into a rustic turkey sandwich bar with a variety of breads and spreads. This Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe is surprisingly versatile, so let your presentation reflect the season and your style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover turkey is a treasure! Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep them moist by adding a little leftover pan juice or broth before sealing.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap sliced turkey breast tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then tuck into a freezer bag. It’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months—just label it with the date so you never lose track. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat without drying out, lay turkey slices in a baking dish, add a splash of broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until hot. Or microwave gently, covered with a damp paper towel, for quick lunches or meal prep. The Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe tastes almost as wonderful reheated as it does fresh!
FAQs
Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless turkey breast will still turn out juicy if you use the same method, but keep an eye on the cook time—it’ll usually roast a bit quicker, so check the internal temperature starting around the 60-minute mark.
Do I need to brine the turkey breast for this recipe?
For convenience, this Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe skips the brine, but you’re welcome to use a simple overnight brine if you have time—it will make the turkey even more flavorful and moist, especially if using a natural or heritage bird.
Can I make gravy from the pan juices?
Yes! Skim off excess fat, then whisk in a spoonful of flour over medium heat and add more broth if needed to make a quick, tasty gravy right in your roasting pan.
What’s the best way to tell if my turkey is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the gold standard—the thickest part of the breast should register 165°F (74°C). This avoids guesswork and ensures a truly juicy turkey every single time.
Can I prepare the seasoning rub in advance?
Definitely! Mix up your oil or butter and spices up to a day ahead and store covered at room temperature. This makes the Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe even easier to throw together at mealtime.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to try this Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe—once you taste how moist and flavorful homemade turkey can be, you’ll want to serve it on more than just holidays. Give it a whirl and enjoy a truly memorable meal, any day of the year!
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Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe results in tender, flavorful turkey that is ideal for a holiday feast or any special occasion. With a blend of herbs and aromatics, this roast turkey breast is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
Turkey:
- 1 (4 to 5-pound) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Aromatics:
- 4 cloves garlic (smashed)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 1 lemon (quartered)
Broth:
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry and place it in a roasting pan.
- Season the Turkey: Mix olive oil or melted butter with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Rub the mixture over the turkey.
- Add Aromatics: Stuff the cavity with garlic, onion, and lemon quarters.
- Add Broth: Pour broth into the pan.
- Roast: Roast uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan juices or gravy.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- You can add fresh herbs like sage or parsley for extra flavor.
- Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or soups.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 ounces
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
