If you are looking for a classic, comforting, and flavorful centerpiece for your next family feast, this Roast Turkey Breast Recipe is an absolute must-try. It offers juicy, tender meat with a crispy, herb-infused skin that delivers on every level of taste and texture. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a special weekend dinner, this recipe brings that home-cooked warmth and elegance to your table without any fuss. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen and makes every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but play an essential role in making this Roast Turkey Breast Recipe sing with flavor and perfect texture. Each adds a layer of charm, whether it’s the fresh herbs adding a fragrant lift or the butter giving that irresistibly golden skin.
- Bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (4–6 lb): The star of the show providing juicy, tender meat with crispy skin.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Softened for easy mixing and richness that enhances moisture and flavor.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds a punch of savory depth that complements the herbs beautifully.
- Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped) or dried (1 teaspoon): Offers a piney, aromatic note that is classic with poultry.
- Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped) or dried (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle earthiness and complexity.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances color and adds a gentle sweet-smoky undertone.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Provides a mild heat and sharpness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps crisp the skin to golden perfection.
- Lemon (1, halved): Adds a bright, fresh zing that cuts through richness.
- Onion (1, quartered): Infuses subtle sweetness and moisture while roasting.
- Chicken or turkey broth (1 cup): Keeps the meat moist and forms the base of delicious pan juices.
How to Make Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Turkey
First things first, get your oven warmed up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Patting the turkey breast dry ensures that the skin crisps up beautifully during roasting. Placing it skin-side up on a rack allows air to circulate underneath, which prevents sogginess and encourages even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Herb Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary and thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend is the secret to that irresistible aroma and taste. Gently loosen the turkey skin and spread half the butter mixture underneath—this keeps the meat incredibly moist and infuses it from within. Rub the remaining butter over the top for that golden, herb-coated skin.
Step 3: Add Final Touches and Roast
Drizzle olive oil over the seasoned turkey to help the skin caramelize. Arrange lemon halves and onion quarters around the bird in the pan—their natural juices will mingle with the turkey, enhancing every bite. Pour the broth into the roasting pan to maintain moisture throughout the slow cook. Roast uncovered for about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices during the last hour to keep things juicy and flavorful. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) at the thickest part.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once out of the oven, let your turkey breast rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every slice moist and tender. Then, carve with care and prepare to enjoy!
How to Serve Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme adds a pop of vibrant green color and fresh aroma right before serving. A few lemon wedges on the side don’t just brighten the plate but also offer guests the option to add a zesty finish to their slices.
Side Dishes
This Roast Turkey Breast Recipe pairs beautifully with classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and tangy cranberry sauce. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans can bring fresh texture and a touch of color to your meal, balancing all the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange slices of turkey breast overlapping on a large platter with the pan drippings spooned over for gloss and extra flavor. Alternatively, use the leftover slices to create turkey sliders or a warm turkey and gravy sandwich, keeping the spirit of your delicious roast alive through multiple meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your roast, wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Stored properly, sliced turkey breast keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep your roast turkey breast for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, they maintain great flavor and texture for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To best reheat your turkey without drying it out, wrap slices in foil with a splash of broth or gravy and warm them in a low oven setting. This gentle approach restores tenderness and juiciness, making the reheated meat almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this Roast Turkey Breast Recipe?
Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast, but the bone-in version often provides more flavor and moisture. If using boneless, watch your cooking time closely as it will generally roast faster.
Is it necessary to loosen the skin before applying the butter mixture?
Absolutely! Loosening the skin allows the herb butter to penetrate directly into the meat, infusing deeper flavor and helping keep the turkey moist during cooking.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can mix the herb butter and even rub it on the turkey breast the day before roasting, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just keep the turkey wrapped tightly in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
Dried herbs work well as substitutes. Use about one-third of the amount you would for fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated. For this recipe, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary and thyme replaces 1 tablespoon fresh.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat turkey.
Final Thoughts
This Roast Turkey Breast Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it delivers that perfect balance of simplicity, rich flavor, and moist tenderness every time. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a delicious meal to share with loved ones, I’m confident you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again. So go ahead, gather those fresh ingredients, and let your oven do the magic — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Roast Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Roast Turkey Breast recipe delivers a succulent and flavorful turkey perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering. The turkey is seasoned with a savory blend of herbs and spices, then roasted to juicy perfection with a crispy, golden skin. Served with pan drippings or gravy, it’s an impressive yet simple main course that serves six.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 (4–6 lb) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Turkey: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and place it skin-side up on a rack inside a roasting pan to ensure even cooking.
- Make Herb Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly to create a flavorful herb butter.
- Apply Seasoning Under and Over Skin: Carefully loosen the turkey skin and rub half of the herb butter mixture underneath the skin to infuse flavor directly into the meat. Spread the remaining butter mixture evenly over the top of the skin for maximum taste and crispiness.
- Add Olive Oil and Aromatics: Drizzle olive oil over the seasoned turkey breast to help with browning. Arrange the halved lemon and quartered onion around the turkey in the roasting pan to add aromatic moisture and subtle flavors during cooking.
- Pour Broth and Roast: Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the meat moist while roasting. Roast the turkey uncovered for 1¾ to 2½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast. Baste occasionally with the pan juices during the last hour to enhance juiciness.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice the turkey breast and serve it with the pan drippings or your favorite gravy for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor and juiciness, consider brining the turkey breast overnight before roasting.
- Leftover turkey breast makes excellent sandwiches or can be frozen for future meals.
