When I first tried this Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe, I couldn’t believe how tender and flavorful it turned out. It’s now my secret weapon for everything from fancy holiday feasts to casual weeknight dinners.
The smell of herbs and citrus wafting through my kitchen is pure joy, and slicing into that perfectly seasoned crust never gets old. Whether you’re looking for a healthier, faster alternative to a whole turkey or something easy yet impressive, this recipe is a winner. Try it, and you’ll soon find yourself making it on repeat!
What You’ll Need: Ingredients
- Turkey breast (about 3–5 pounds): Choose boneless or bone-in based on your preference. Bone-in adds a bit more flavor.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Keeps the meat moist and helps create that crispy outer layer.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): Fresh garlic offers the best burst of flavor. Skip the jarred stuff!
- Lemon (1, juiced): Adds a bright, zesty kick and balances the richness.
- Fresh rosemary (2 sprigs): Essential for that holiday vibe.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon): A gentle herb that complements rosemary perfectly.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Don’t be shy! Seasoning is key for turkey.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of spice.
Note: Serves 4-6, depending on portion sizes. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for larger groups.
Creative Twists You’ll Love
Want to mix things up or meet dietary needs? Here are some ideas for making this recipe your own!
- Flavor Enhancers: Add smoked paprika for depth or a touch of honey for sweetness.
- Marinade Magic: For a citrusy twist, use a mix of orange and lemon juice.
- Dietary Modifications: Swap olive oil for avocado oil if that’s more your thing, or try plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Cooking Time Checklist
Here’s a quick breakdown of how long you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45–60 minutes (varies by turkey size)
- Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Kitchen Essentials
Before you get started, make sure you have these items ready to go!
- Roasting pan: Essential for even cooking.
- Meat thermometer: Absolute must for that perfect internal temp.
- Basting brush: Helps lock in moisture and flavor.
- Sharp knife: For clean, even slices of turkey.
- Mixing bowl: Use for blending marinades and oils.
How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast? Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this roasted turkey breast is simpler than you think. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a gorgeous roast on your table in no time!
Prep the Turkey
Start by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispy, golden crust. Trust me, this small step makes a big difference in the final result.
Season with Love
Drizzle the turkey breast with olive oil, rubbing it generously to coat all sides. Then, evenly apply the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. If you have time, marinate it in the fridge for a few hours. The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor becomes!
Preheat and Prep Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C), giving it time to preheat fully. Place your seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan, then squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon over the top for a citrusy lift that brightens every bite.
Roast to Perfection
Place the roasting pan in the oven. Depending on the size of your turkey breast, it’ll need 45-60 minutes to roast. About midway through, baste the turkey with its pan juices. This step locks in moisture and creates an irresistible glaze.
Check the Temperature
Your meat thermometer is your best friend here! Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey breast, and aim for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Nothing beats a perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth turkey.
Rest, Slice, and Enjoy
Don’t skip the resting process! Once out of the oven, allow the turkey to rest for about 10 minutes. This step ensures all those juices stay right where they belong—in the meat! Once rested, slice it up and get ready to dig in.
My Pro Tips for the Best Results
I’ve made this recipe so many times, and here’s what I’ve learned along the way to make it even better!
- Use fresh—not frozen! A fresh turkey breast will always yield juicier meat.
- Resting is non-negotiable. It seals in those heavenly juices, so be patient.
- Add a splash of wine or chicken stock to the roasting pan for extra flavor and to keep the meat moist.
How to Serve Your Roasted Turkey Breast?
Presentation matters, and this turkey breast deserves all the love it can get!
- Slice thinly and serve with gravy or cranberry sauce for a classic pairing.
- Surround the turkey with roasted root veggies like Brussels sprouts and carrots for a pop of color.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary and lemon slices for an elegant touch.
- Add mashed potatoes, stuffing, and a dinner roll for the ultimate meal.
Nutritional Information Breakdown
This roasted turkey breast is not only delicious but also pretty healthy. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 12g
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigeration: Cool leftovers completely before storing. Wrap them in foil or transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, slice the turkey into portions, and store them in freezer-safe bags. They’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the turkey slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven. Cover with foil and add a sprinkle of water or broth to keep the meat juicy as it warms.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe?
This roasted turkey breast checks all the boxes for an unforgettable meal. Here’s why I love it so much (and you will too):
- Simple Yet Elegant: Great for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
- Healthy and Lean: Loaded with protein but low in fat and calories.
- Totally Customizable: Easy to tweak flavor profiles with different seasonings.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Holiday-worthy but simple enough for a weekday.
- Amazing Leftovers: Slices stay moist and flavorful for days.
With all this goodness, you’re sure to impress guests or make any family dinner extra special. Don’t wait for the holidays to enjoy this show-stopping turkey breast recipe! Give it a try, tweak it to your tastes, and make it a staple in your kitchen. Happy roasting!
Want more details? This video shows each step clearly and simply:
Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 3-5 pounds turkey breast boneless or bone-in
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 lemon juiced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the Turkey: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Marinate for a few hours if desired.
- Preheat and Prep Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan and squeeze lemon juice over it.
- Roast to Perfection: Roast for 45-60 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices. Check temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
- Rest, Slice, and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Fresh Turkey: Always opt for fresh turkey breast for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Resting: Allow the turkey to rest after roasting to keep it moist.
- Wine/Stock Option: Add a splash of white wine or chicken stock to the roasting pan for extra flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
