Ready to impress your friends and family? This Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast is a flavor-packed delight that is perfect for any meal! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create tender, juicy turkey that bursts with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon. Whether it's for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, this recipe will make you the star chef of the night. Let’s dive into how to make this tasty dish!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Herb Blend: The combination of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and sage creates an aromatic flavor that elevates the turkey breast to a new level.
- Moist and Juicy: The addition of low-sodium chicken stock during roasting ensures that the turkey remains moist and succulent throughout the cooking process.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a delicious turkey breast that’s perfect for any occasion without the fuss of a whole turkey.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe not only serves a crowd but also provides delightful leftovers that can be used in sandwiches, salads, or soups.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 1 boneless turkey breast (about 3-4 pounds)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
To make a tasty garlic herb roasted turkey breast, you need a few key ingredients. The boneless turkey breast is the star of the dish. It’s juicy and easy to cook. Next, you’ll need garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. These add powerful flavor. The olive oil helps blend everything.
Lemon zest and juice brighten the taste. Salt and black pepper bring out all the flavors. Chicken stock keeps the turkey moist while it cooks. With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to a delicious meal.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh herbs
Fresh herbs can make your dish pop. They add color and a fresh taste. You can sprinkle some on top when serving. This small touch makes a big difference in presentation. It also enhances the flavor. Try using extra rosemary or thyme for a vibrant finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine:
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
Mix these well to create a flavorful herb paste.
Turkey Preparation
- Pat the boneless turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- Score the turkey breast by making small cuts on its surface. This helps the flavor sink in.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey. Get it into the cuts for extra taste.
Cooking Process
- Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan.
- Pour 1 cup of low-sodium chicken stock around the turkey. This keeps it moist.
- Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Baste the turkey halfway through cooking with the pan juices for added flavor.
- Once it's done, take the turkey out and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps keep it juicy.
- Slice the turkey, serve with the pan juices, and add fresh herbs for garnish if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
Using fresh herbs makes a big difference. They add bright flavors that dried herbs can't match. Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage give your turkey a nice taste. If you can, use them for this recipe.
Letting the turkey rest is also key. After cooking, leave it alone for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the juices stay inside the meat. If you cut it too soon, juices will run out. You want every bite to be juicy and full of flavor.
Cooking and Basting Techniques
Basting is a great way to add flavor and moisture. Use the pan juices to baste the turkey halfway through cooking. This makes the skin crispy and keeps the meat tender.
Make sure to check the turkey's temperature. It should reach 165°F to be safe and tasty. If you follow these tips, your turkey will be moist and full of flavor.
Pro Tips
- Resting is Key: Allow the turkey breast to rest after roasting. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, always check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- Flavor Boost: Add some lemon slices or additional herbs to the chicken stock in the roasting pan for an extra layer of flavor that infuses the turkey while it cooks.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the herb mixture a day in advance and let it marinate on the turkey overnight. This enhances the flavors and saves time on the day of cooking.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can add different herbs for a unique taste. Oregano gives a warm flavor. Thyme adds earthiness. You might even try dill for a fresh twist. Citrus can also change the game. Replace lemon with orange or lime. This adds a sweet or tart zing. You can mix these flavors in the herb paste. Just remember to balance them well.
Cooking Methods
You can switch up how you cook your turkey breast. A slow cooker option works great for tender meat. Just combine the herb mixture and turkey in the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 hours. This method keeps the turkey juicy all day.
Grilling is another fun way to enjoy turkey breast. Preheat your grill to medium heat. After applying the herb mixture, place the turkey on the grill. Cook for about 20 minutes per side. This gives the meat a nice smoky flavor. Plus, it adds beautiful grill marks. Both methods offer delicious results.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
After cooking your garlic herb roasted turkey breast, let it cool. Once cool, wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor mixing. When reheating, slice only what you need. This keeps the rest fresh longer.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save leftovers for later, freezing is great. First, slice the turkey breast into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place all wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the turkey for up to three months.
To reheat effectively, thaw the turkey overnight in the fridge. After thawing, place it in a baking dish. Add a splash of chicken stock to keep it moist. Cover it with foil to prevent drying. Heat in a 350°F oven until warm, about 20-30 minutes. This way, you enjoy juicy turkey just like when it was first cooked.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long to cook turkey breast per pound? Cook turkey breast for about 20 minutes per pound. For a 3-4 pound turkey breast, this means around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I use a frozen turkey breast? Yes, you can use a frozen turkey breast. However, thaw it in the fridge for 1-2 days before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and keeps the meat juicy.
What to serve with garlic herb roasted turkey breast? You can serve garlic herb roasted turkey breast with many sides. Here are some great options:
- Mashed potatoes
- Green beans
- Stuffing
- Cranberry sauce
- A fresh salad
Each of these pairs well and enhances the turkey's flavors. Enjoy your meal!
This post covered how to make a delicious garlic herb roasted turkey breast. We talked about key ingredients, from the turkey breast to fresh herbs. I shared steps for prepping and cooking, ensuring your turkey is tender and tasty. Tips on flavor and storage helped make the dish even better.
In closing, with practice, you’ll master this dish. Enjoy your flavorful turkey and impress everyone at your table!
