Cooking a turkey breast in the oven is a perfect option for smaller gatherings or weeknight dinners. It’s a simpler, quicker alternative to a whole turkey, offering juicy meat with crispy skin. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown, total time, serving suggestions, tips, and answers to common questions for roasting the perfect turkey breast.
Total Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours (depending on size)
- Resting Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 whole bone-in turkey breast (5-7 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
Step-by-Step Directions with Time
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Time: 5 minutes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Breast
- Time: 10 minutes
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to help achieve crispy skin. In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Roasting Pan
- Time: 5 minutes
Place the onion and lemon quarters in the bottom of a roasting pan. Add 1 cup of chicken broth (or water) to the pan to keep the turkey moist during roasting. Set a wire rack on top of the onions and lemons, then place the seasoned turkey breast on the rack.
Step 4: Roast the Turkey Breast
- Time: 1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours
Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes per pound. A 5-7 pound turkey breast will take between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours. Halfway through the roasting time, baste the turkey with pan juices to keep it moist. The turkey is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast reads 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Let It Rest
- Time: 15 minutes
Once the turkey is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Tent the turkey with aluminum foil to keep it warm during this resting period.
Step 6: Carve and Serve
Carve the turkey breast by slicing it against the grain for tender, juicy pieces. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Thanksgiving Meal: Pair with mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and stuffing for a traditional holiday feast.
- Lighter Meal Option: Serve slices of turkey breast with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a lighter, healthier option.
- Sandwiches: Leftover turkey breast makes great sandwiches. Add slices to bread with lettuce, cranberry sauce, and mayo for a tasty post-holiday snack.
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches 165°F internally. This guarantees that the turkey is fully cooked without drying out.
- Baste Regularly: Basting the turkey halfway through cooking ensures a juicy breast and crispy skin.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring out the best flavor. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half.
- Season Under the Skin: Don’t forget to rub the butter mixture under the turkey skin. This step locks in moisture and adds incredible flavor directly to the meat.
- Resting is Key: Let the turkey rest after roasting to lock in the juices. Skipping this step may result in dry meat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should I roast a turkey breast?
Roast the turkey breast for about 20 minutes per pound at 350°F. A 5-7 pound turkey breast will take between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours.
2. Do I need to baste the turkey breast?
Yes! Basting halfway through roasting helps keep the turkey breast moist and ensures crispy, flavorful skin.
3. How can I tell when the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey breast is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the meat.
4. Can I roast a boneless turkey breast?
Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter. Roast boneless turkey breasts for about 15 minutes per pound at 350°F. Always use a thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
5. How do I store leftover turkey breast?
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
6. What should I do if my turkey breast is browning too quickly?
If the skin is browning too fast, tent the turkey breast loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent over-browning while allowing the turkey to finish cooking.
This Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and juicy alternative to a whole turkey. With just a little prep, you can have a beautifully roasted turkey breast in a couple of hours, perfect for smaller gatherings or family dinners. Follow these step-by-step directions and tips to achieve a perfectly roasted turkey breast every time!
