This award-winning roasted turkey breast recipe is the ultimate showstopper for holiday meals or any special occasion. The turkey comes out perfectly juicy, tender, and packed with flavors that balance herbs, butter, and aromatics. With a crispy golden skin and a moist interior, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Follow the detailed steps below to create a turkey breast that will earn rave reviews.
1. Award Winning Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 4-6 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove moisture. This step is essential for achieving crispy skin.
Step 2: Make the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until you have a smooth, fragrant paste.
Step 3: Butter the Turkey
Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast using your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin, directly onto the meat. Rub the remaining butter mixture over the skin, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Place the halved lemon and quartered onion in the bottom of a roasting pan. These aromatics will infuse the turkey with additional flavor as it roasts. Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the pan to keep the turkey moist and create a delicious base for pan drippings.
Step 5: Roast the Turkey Breast
Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack set over the aromatics in the pan. Roast at 425°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue roasting for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Baste the Turkey
Every 30 minutes, baste the turkey with the juices from the bottom of the pan. This step adds flavor and keeps the turkey moist.
Step 7: Rest the Turkey
Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Step 8: Serve
Slice the turkey breast and serve with your favorite sides. Use the pan drippings to create a flavorful gravy if desired.
2. Tips for Perfect Roasted Turkey Breast
Choose Quality Meat: Opt for a fresh or properly thawed bone-in turkey breast for the best results. The bone helps retain moisture, and the skin ensures flavor.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Herbs, butter, and salt are key to infusing the turkey with flavor.
Temperature Control: Start roasting at a high temperature to crisp the skin, then lower the heat to cook the meat evenly.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Always rely on a meat thermometer to check doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey breast without touching the bone.
Don’t Skip Resting: Allowing the turkey breast to rest after roasting ensures the juices don’t escape when slicing.
3. Recipe Variations
While the classic herb-roasted turkey breast is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to customize the flavors:
Citrus Herb Turkey Breast: Add slices of orange and lemon under the skin or in the roasting pan for a bright, zesty flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Turkey Breast: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the herb butter for a rich, savory twist.
Spiced Turkey Breast: Replace herbs with a spice rub made of smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Brush a mixture of honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar over the turkey during the last 20 minutes of roasting.
Stuffed Turkey Breast: Create a pocket under the skin and fill it with a mixture of breadcrumbs, sautéed mushrooms, and cranberries for a festive stuffed turkey.
4. What to Serve With Roasted Turkey Breast
The roasted turkey breast pairs beautifully with an array of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
Classic Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce are timeless holiday favorites.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, honey-glazed carrots, or sautéed Brussels sprouts complement the turkey’s flavors.
Comforting Breads: Warm dinner rolls, cornbread, or garlic bread are perfect for soaking up gravy.
Sauces and Gravy: Don’t forget a rich turkey gravy or a tangy cranberry-orange sauce to drizzle over the turkey.
Light Salads: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette or a fall-inspired salad with apples and walnuts balances the richness of the turkey.
5. How to Store & Use Leftover Roasted Turkey Breast
Storing Leftovers
Let the turkey cool completely before storing.
Place slices or shredded turkey in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the turkey in portions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
Turkey Sandwiches: Layer sliced turkey on crusty bread with cranberry sauce, lettuce, and cheese for a hearty sandwich.
Turkey Soup: Dice the leftover turkey and add it to a comforting soup with vegetables, noodles, or rice.
Turkey Pot Pie: Use chunks of turkey in a creamy filling topped with a flaky crust for a comforting meal.
Salads and Wraps: Toss shredded turkey into salads or use it as a filling for wraps with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing.
Tacos or Quesadillas: Add turkey to tortillas with cheese, salsa, and avocado for a quick Tex-Mex twist.
With this award-winning roasted turkey breast recipe, you’ll have a showstopping dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. From holiday feasts to weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to get creative with the leftovers for meals that keep the celebration going!
