Easy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
Looking for a delicious and easy way to impress your guests at your next gathering? This roast turkey breast recipe is your answer!
Perfect for smaller celebrations like Friendsgiving or an intimate Thanksgiving dinner, it offers all the flavor and festive spirit without the hassle of cooking a whole turkey.
Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 (6 to 6.5 pound) bone-in turkey breast
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step 1: Prepare the Herbs
Start by chopping your herbs. You will need two teaspoons each of freshly chopped thyme and rosemary. These are classic flavors that pair beautifully with turkey.
Step 2: Let the Turkey Come to Room Temperature
Remove the turkey breast from the packaging and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Herbed Butter
In a bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped thyme, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Turkey
Using your hands, gently separate the skin from the meat of the turkey breast. Be careful not to puncture the skin. This will allow you to spread the herbed butter mixture directly onto the meat for maximum flavor and moisture.
Step 5: Apply the Herbed Butter
Take a handful of the herbed butter and spread it under the skin. Once you’ve used about half of the mixture, spread the remaining butter on top of the skin. This will help achieve a golden brown and crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.
Step 6: Roast the Turkey
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey breast in a baking dish (no need for racks or veggies) and roast it for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
Step 7: Let it Rest
Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist turkey.
Step 8: Carve and Serve
To carve the turkey, start just off center of the breast bone, slicing down and out to remove the breast meat. Repeat on the other side. Thinly slice the turkey and arrange it on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
And there you have it! A beautifully roasted turkey breast that is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Serve it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes and your favorite veggies, and you have a meal that everyone will love!