Turkey Breast Recipes

Turkey breast is an incredibly versatile and lean cut of meat that can be transformed into a variety of mouthwatering dishes. While it’s often associated with Thanksgiving, turkey breast is a fantastic protein option year-round—whether roasted, grilled, slow-cooked, or sliced into sandwiches. It’s easy to season, pairs well with many flavors, and can be adapted to a wide range of diets and cuisines.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Lean and Healthy
   Turkey breast is low in fat but rich in protein, making it a great choice for balanced meals.

2. Fast-Cooking
   Compared to a whole turkey, the breast cooks much faster and more evenly.

3. Perfect for Small Gatherings
   Ideal when you don’t need to roast an entire bird for dinner.

4. Endlessly Versatile
   Turkey breast works beautifully with herbs, spices, citrus, marinades, and sauces from all over the world.

Ingredients

1 (2.5 to 3 lb) bone-in turkey breast, skin on
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken or turkey broth

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Season the turkey breast with olive oil (or melted butter), garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Place the seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan. Pour the broth into the pan around the turkey.

4. Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Let the turkey rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 to 6

Variations

• Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast
  For a festive twist, coat the turkey breast with a Dijon mustard mixture, followed by chopped sage, thyme, rosemary, garlic, and panko breadcrumbs or crushed nuts. Roast as usual for a beautiful golden crust.

• Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
  If you prefer a hands-off approach, cook a boneless turkey breast in the slow cooker with garlic, rosemary, broth, and a splash of white wine. Let it cook on low for 6–7 hours and broil the top for a crispy finish.

• Grilled Turkey Breast
  Marinate a boneless turkey breast in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 1–2 hours, then grill on medium-high heat for about 6–8 minutes per side. Serve sliced thinly for salads, wraps, or bowls.

• Stuffed Turkey Breast
  Butterfly the turkey breast and stuff it with spinach and feta, cranberry and wild rice, or a mushroom and onion mixture. Roll it up, secure with twine, and roast until fully cooked.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store cooked turkey breast in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Slice and freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn.

• Reheat: Gently warm in the oven with a splash of broth, or microwave in short bursts with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I cook turkey breast from frozen?

Yes, but it will take longer and may cook unevenly. It’s best to thaw completely in the fridge before cooking.

What’s better—bone-in or boneless?

Bone-in turkey breast is often more flavorful and juicier, as the bones help retain moisture. Boneless turkey breast is quicker to cook and easier to slice, making it ideal for sandwiches and wraps.

How do I keep turkey breast from drying out?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F, cook with moisture (such as broth), and allow the turkey to rest before slicing to retain the juices.

Can I brine turkey breast?

Absolutely. A simple saltwater brine for 6–12 hours will help retain moisture and enhance the flavor of the turkey breast.

Can I cook turkey breast on the grill?

Yes, marinate it and grill over medium-high heat for about 6–8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is it necessary to cook the turkey breast with the skin on?

While skin-on turkey breast provides a crispy and flavorful crust, you can also cook it skinless for a lighter option. The cooking method will vary slightly, but the result will still be delicious.

How do I know when my turkey breast is fully cooked?

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. When it reaches 165°F, it is safe to remove from the oven.

Can I make a turkey breast ahead of time for a party?

Yes! You can cook the turkey breast in advance, refrigerate it, and then reheat it when ready to serve. This is a great option for stress-free entertaining.

How do I reheat turkey breast without drying it out?

To reheat, add a splash of broth and cover with foil to lock in moisture. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

What are some good side dishes to serve with turkey breast?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans with almonds, cornbread stuffing, and Caesar or arugula salad are all excellent choices.

Conclusion

Turkey breast is a versatile, lean, and healthy protein that can be enjoyed in various ways, from roasted to grilled, stuffed, or smoked. With its adaptability, you can easily experiment with flavors and cooking methods, whether for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. With the right techniques and recipes, turkey breast can become a staple on your table, offering delicious meals all year round.

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