This Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast is a perfect centerpiece for any holiday feast, offering juicy, tender meat that’s bursting with flavor from fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. The skin crisps up beautifully, creating a delightful texture contrast that pairs well with savory basting juices. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
The combination of aromatic herbs, olive oil, and garlic seeps into the turkey meat, resulting in a rich, well-rounded flavor. Whether you’re preparing this dish for Thanksgiving or just a cozy family dinner, this herb-roasted turkey breast is sure to be a hit. Serve it alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce for a classic, satisfying meal.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 (5 to 7 pounds) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Place it in a roasting pan.
- Season the Turkey: Rub the olive oil over the turkey breast. Combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over the turkey breast.
- Roast the Turkey: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey occasionally with the pan juices.
- Rest and Serve: Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
- Carve and Enjoy: Slice the turkey breast and serve with your favorite sides.
The Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is a classic, especially around the holidays, but it can also be a go-to meal year-round for its simplicity and delicious flavor. Here are some additional details and insights about this dish:
Why Choose Turkey Breast?
Turkey breast is a lean and healthy cut of meat, offering plenty of protein with less fat compared to other cuts like legs or thighs. It’s perfect for smaller gatherings or weeknight meals when a whole turkey might be too much. Plus, roasting just the breast means quicker cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
Key to Flavor: Herbs and Basting
The key to making this turkey breast shine is the herb rub. Fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage add layers of aroma and taste that permeate the meat, while olive oil helps crisp the skin to golden perfection. Basting with chicken broth or wine ensures that the meat remains moist throughout the roasting process. Every 30 minutes, as the turkey roasts, you’ll want to baste it with its own flavorful juices to keep the meat tender and juicy.
Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a rich cranberry sauce. The versatility of the turkey breast makes it ideal for serving with a variety of sides, whether for a holiday meal or a simple family dinner.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
Another great feature of this dish is its suitability for meal prep. Leftover turkey breast can be used in sandwiches, salads, or even soups. You can also make turkey stock from the pan drippings and leftover bones, adding even more depth of flavor to future dishes.
The Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast is not only a delicious meal but also a versatile recipe that can be adapted to fit any occasion.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Turkey Breast:
- Get the Skin Crispy: To ensure your turkey breast has a deliciously crispy skin, pat it dry with paper towels before applying the herb rub. Moisture can prevent the skin from getting that perfect golden-brown color and texture.
- Let the Turkey Rest: After roasting, let the turkey breast rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and juicy when you slice it.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked turkey, invest in a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast. This guarantees that the turkey is safe to eat without overcooking it, which can dry out the meat.
- Customize the Herbs: While the recipe calls for thyme, rosemary, and sage, feel free to experiment with other herbs like tarragon, oregano, or parsley. These can bring out different flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Ideal Occasions for Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast:
This recipe is perfect for more than just Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a versatile dish for a variety of occasions:
- Weeknight Dinner: Since turkey breast cooks faster than a whole bird, this recipe is practical for weeknight meals. Serve it with quick sides like steamed vegetables or a salad.
- Small Gatherings: If you’re cooking for a smaller group, like a family of 4 to 6 people, this turkey breast is ideal. You still get the festive feel without the hassle of a large turkey.
- Meal Prep: Cook once, and you’ll have delicious turkey to use in meals throughout the week. Leftovers are great in sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
Health Benefits:
Turkey breast is an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. It’s:
- Low in Fat: Turkey breast is one of the leanest cuts of poultry, making it a great option for those looking to reduce fat intake.
- High in Protein: A single serving provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Rich in Nutrients: Turkey is also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, selenium, and zinc, which support various bodily functions like immune health and metabolism.
Pairing with Sauces and Gravies:
You can enhance the flavor of this Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast by serving it with different sauces or gravies:
- Cranberry Sauce: The sweetness and tang of cranberry sauce balance the savory flavors of the turkey and herbs.
- Pan Gravy: Make a simple gravy from the pan drippings by adding some flour and broth to thicken it. This adds richness and moisture to every bite.
- Garlic Butter: A drizzle of melted garlic butter over the top of the turkey can add an extra layer of flavor and richness.
With all these tips and insights, your Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast will turn out perfectly every time, whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or just a simple weeknight dinner.
Conclusion:
Oven-roasted turkey breast is a versatile and straightforward recipe that is both flavorful and easy to prepare. Its roots in American culinary tradition highlight the importance of turkey in festive meals. By using simple seasonings and a reliable roasting method, this recipe ensures a delicious and succulent turkey breast that can be enjoyed by family and friends during any special occasion. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a Sunday dinner, this classic dish remains a beloved choice for its taste and ease of preparation.