Oven Roasted Turkey Breast: The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Juicy Results

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, whether it’s a festive holiday feast or a simple family dinner. The aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This recipe not only highlights the succulent flavors of the turkey but also pays homage to a tradition that has been cherished for generations. Many people love Oven Roasted Turkey Breast for its juicy texture and the ease with which it can be prepared, making it a go-to choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

As I delve into this delightful recipe, I can’t help but think of the countless memories created around the dinner table, where this dish often takes center stage. The combination of herbs and spices enhances the natural flavor of the turkey, making each bite a savory experience. Join me as we explore the steps to create your own Oven Roasted Turkey Breast, and discover why this dish has earned a special place in the hearts of so many.

Ingredients:

• 1 (4-5 pound) bone-in turkey breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary) for garnish

Preparing the Turkey Breast

1. **Thaw the Turkey**: If your turkey breast is frozen, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds. This ensures even cooking and safety. 2. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the turkey breast evenly without drying it out. 3. **Prepare the Turkey**: Remove the turkey breast from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the skin get crispy during roasting. 4. **Season the Turkey**: In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This blend will give your turkey a flavorful crust. 5. **Apply Olive Oil**: Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This not only helps the seasoning stick but also promotes browning. 6. **Season Generously**: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to get it under the skin as well. Use your fingers to gently separate the skin from the meat if necessary. This will infuse the meat with flavor.

Roasting the Turkey

7. **Prepare the Roasting Pan**: Place a rack in a roasting pan. If you don’t have a rack, you can create a makeshift one using crumpled aluminum foil. This allows air to circulate around the turkey, promoting even cooking. 8. **Add Broth**: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will keep the turkey moist during cooking and can be used for gravy later. 9. **Place the Turkey in the Oven**: Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on the rack in the roasting pan, breast side up. 10. **Roast the Turkey**: Roast the turkey in the preheated oven. As a general rule, cook the turkey for about 15-20 minutes per pound. For a 4-5 pound turkey breast, this will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. 11. **Baste the Turkey**: About every 30 minutes, use a baster or a spoon to pour the pan juices over the turkey. This helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor. 12. **Check the Temperature**: After about 1.5 hours, start checking the internal temperature of the turkey breast using a meat thermometer. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Resting and Carving the Turkey

13. **Remove from Oven**: Once the turkey breast reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the oven. Be cautious of the hot pan juices. 14. **Let it Rest**: Tent the turkey breast loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy. 15. **Carve the Turkey**: After resting, place the turkey breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carve the turkey by slicing down along the breastbone to remove the breast meat. Then, slice the meat into even pieces. 16. **Serve**: Arrange the sliced turkey on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a beautiful presentation.

Making Gravy (Optional)

17. **Prepare the Gravy**: If you’d like to make gravy, strain the pan juices into a saucepan. Skim off any excess fat that rises to the top. 18. **Thicken the Gravy**: In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Bring the pan juices to a simmer over medium heat, then whisk in the slurry. Continue to cook until the

Conclusion:

In summary, this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary skills and impress their family and friends. The combination of juicy, tender meat infused with aromatic herbs and spices creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a special occasion, or simply a cozy family dinner, this turkey breast will undoubtedly steal the show. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your perfectly roasted turkey breast with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a fresh cranberry sauce to add a delightful contrast of flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding different herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a citrus twist with lemon or orange zest to the seasoning mix. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy roasting! Print