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Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, flavorful meat with a beautifully crisp skin. Utilizing a high initial roasting temperature, the method seals in juices, while a butter and herb rub under the skin enhances moisture and taste. Perfect for a family dinner or holiday feast, this straightforward roasting technique ensures a succulent turkey breast every time.

Ingredients

Turkey Breast

  • 4 pound (1.8 kg) turkey breast, boneless, skin on

Butter and Seasoning

  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • ½ teaspoon finely chopped thyme
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Place the oven rack in the lower third position and preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). This initial high temperature is essential for creating a crispy, golden skin and helps seal the turkey’s juices inside.
  2. Dry and Season the Turkey: Thoroughly pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season the bottom side with about ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, adjusting as needed based on size. Flip the turkey over so it’s skin-side up.
  3. Prepare Herb Butter and Apply Under Skin: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of softened butter with ½ teaspoon salt and the finely chopped thyme. Carefully loosen the skin over the thickest part of the breast without detaching it completely. Spread the butter mixture evenly under the skin to infuse flavor and retain moisture.
  4. Butter the Skin and Season: Brush approximately 2 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the turkey skin. Then season the skin with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to enhance browning and flavor.
  5. Roast the Turkey Breast: Place the turkey breast on a wire rack set atop a sheet tray. Roast at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes. Afterward, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature in the thickest part reaches between 160 and 165°F (72 to 74°C), which will take about 30 to 45 minutes.
  6. Rest Before Slicing: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice remains moist and tender.

Notes

  • Using a meat thermometer is crucial for perfectly cooked turkey; avoid overcooking to keep meat juicy.
  • Loosening the skin carefully without detaching it fully prevents the butter mixture from sliding off.
  • Resting the turkey breast before slicing enhances flavor and juiciness.
  • Adjust seasoning amounts based on turkey size and personal preference.
  • This recipe works best with boneless, skin-on turkey breast for even cooking and easier carving.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/perfectly-juicy-roast-turkey-breast-recipe/