Description
This Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast recipe delivers a juicy and flavorful main course perfect for holiday celebrations. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon infused in a rich butter spread creates a moist and aromatic roast that pleases any festive table.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey and Herb Butter
- 1 whole turkey breast (4-5 pounds) with skin
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Roasting and Basting
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, black pepper, paprika, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly to create a fragrant herb butter.
- Prepare Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin from the meat without tearing it to create space for the herb butter.
- Apply Herb Butter: Spread half of the herb butter evenly underneath the loosened skin, ensuring the meat is coated. Then, spread the remaining butter mixture evenly over the top of the skin for full flavor infusion.
- Set Up Roasting Pan: Place the prepared turkey breast on a roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil and the juice from the lemon over the turkey for added moisture and brightness. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the meat moist during roasting.
- Roast the Turkey: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roast the turkey breast for 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat registers 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey occasionally with pan juices to maintain moisture and deepen flavor.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the turkey breast from the oven and allow it to rest, tented loosely with foil, for 15 minutes. This resting period lets juices redistribute, ensuring tender, moist slices. After resting, slice and serve warm.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor and juiciness, brine the turkey breast for 4-6 hours before roasting.
- Add vegetables such as carrots, onions, and celery to the roasting pan to create a delicious side and base for gravy.
