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Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

This Oven Roasted Turkey Breast recipe delivers a tender, juicy, and flavorful centerpiece with a crispy golden skin and moist interior. Using simple, everyday ingredients and a slow roasting technique, it ensures ultimate juiciness and a perfect, aromatic crust that suits any occasion, from holiday feasts to family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 fresh bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 3 to 4 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish and flavor)
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock or water (for roasting and basting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Carefully loosen the skin by sliding your fingers under it to create a pocket, then set the turkey aside.
  2. Season Generously: In a bowl, combine olive oil or melted butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Rub this mixture all over the outside of the turkey breast and carefully spread some under the skin pocket for maximum flavor infusion.
  3. Preheat and Roast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey breast skin-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour 1/2 cup of chicken stock or water into the bottom of the pan to maintain moisture and prevent burning.
  4. Roast Until Perfect: Roast the turkey breast for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on size. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) for safe doneness. Baste the turkey occasionally with pan juices to retain moisture and promote crispy skin.
  5. Rest Before Slicing: Remove the turkey from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes covered loosely with foil. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy slices when carved.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and guarantee perfect doneness.
  • Do not skip resting the turkey after roasting as it maintains juiciness.
  • Loosen the skin carefully to allow seasoning to penetrate deeply and enhance flavor.
  • Allow the turkey to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting to promote even cooking.
  • Baste the turkey regularly to develop a crispy, flavorful skin while keeping the meat moist.

Nutrition

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