Roasted Turkey Breast: A Simple, Delicious Recipe for Any Occasion
Are you looking for a delicious and easy roasted turkey breast recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion? Look no further! This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful turkey breast every time, without the fuss of a whole turkey. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a perfectly roasted turkey breast that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed for a 3-4 pound bone-in turkey breast, but you can easily adjust it based on the size of your turkey.
- 1 (3-4 pound) bone-in turkey breast: Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a lovely golden-brown crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Don't be shy with the salt! It enhances the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is best.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage: A classic turkey flavor enhancer.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds another layer of aromatic depth.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the turkey breast moist.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove any giblets from inside the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
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Season Generously: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, sage, and thyme. Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it's evenly coated. Don't forget to season under the skin as well, if possible, for extra flavor infusion.
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Roast to Perfection: Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This will help keep the turkey moist and create pan drippings for a delicious gravy (optional). Roast for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C).
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Rest & Carve: Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
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Carve & Serve: Carve the turkey breast against the grain for the most tender slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Extra Flavor & Juiciness:
- Brining: For an extra juicy and flavorful turkey breast, consider brining it overnight before roasting.
- Herb variations: Experiment with other herbs and spices like rosemary, garlic powder, or onion powder.
- Stuffing: If you like, you can stuff the turkey breast cavity with herbs, vegetables, or sausage. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Gravy: Don't forget to make gravy using the pan drippings!
Serving Suggestions:
This roasted turkey breast is incredibly versatile. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, such as:
- Mashed potatoes: A classic pairing.
- Stuffing/dressing: Adds a comforting touch.
- Green bean casserole: A holiday favorite.
- Cranberry sauce: Provides a delightful tart contrast.
This easy roasted turkey breast recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Follow these steps and you'll be serving a delicious and impressive meal in no time. Enjoy!
