Are you ready to impress your family with a delicious, juicy turkey breast? I’ll guide you through my Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast recipe, packed with rich flavors from garlic and fresh herbs. This dish is simple yet rewarding, perfect for holidays or cozy dinners. With easy steps and helpful tips, you’ll master the art of roasting turkey in no time. Let’s dive in and make your turkey the star of the meal!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Herb Blend: The combination of garlic and fresh herbs infuses the turkey with aromatic flavors, making each bite deliciously savory.
- Moist and Juicy: Roasting the turkey on a bed of vegetables and adding chicken broth ensures it stays moist throughout the cooking process.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe serves a generous portion, making it ideal for family gatherings or holiday celebrations.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, this roasted turkey breast is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Bone-in turkey breast (4-5 pounds)
- Garlic, cloves (6, minced)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
Additional Ingredients
- Olive oil (1/4 cup)
- Salt (2 teaspoons)
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
Vegetables and Broth
- Lemon (zested and juiced)
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1 cup)
- Onion (1, quartered)
- Carrots (2, cut into large chunks)
- Celery (2 ribs, cut into large chunks)
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to a tasty meal. Start with the turkey breast, which is the star of the show. The bone-in part helps keep the meat juicy. Next, you need garlic and those fresh herbs. They bring a wonderful flavor to the dish.
Olive oil adds richness and helps the herb paste stick. Salt and pepper are simple, but they make a big difference in taste.
Don't forget the lemon! It brightens the flavors and adds a nice zing. Chicken broth keeps the turkey moist while it cooks. The onion, carrots, and celery will add some great flavor to the drippings. They are perfect for a side dish or a sauce later.
With these ingredients, you're ready to create a delicious garlic herb roasted turkey breast!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix 6 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped rosemary, 2 tablespoons of chopped thyme, 2 tablespoons of chopped sage, 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. This will be your herb paste.
Turkey Preparation
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step helps the skin get crispy.
- Using your fingers, carefully loosen the skin from the turkey breast. Be gentle to avoid tearing it.
- Rub the herb paste under the skin and all over the turkey. Make sure it is well-coated to pack in flavor.
Roasting Process
- In a large roasting pan, place the quartered onion, large carrot chunks, and celery ribs. This veggie bed adds flavor to your turkey and keeps it elevated.
- Put the turkey breast on top of the vegetables in the pan. Pour 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This keeps the turkey moist while roasting.
- Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil. Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Once cooked, take the turkey out and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This helps the juices stay in the meat.
- Carve the turkey and enjoy it along with the roasted vegetables from the pan.
Tips & Tricks
Flavor Enhancement
To achieve maximum flavor infusion, rub the herb paste under the turkey skin. This helps the herbs seep into the meat. Use fresh garlic, rosemary, thyme, and sage for the best taste. Make sure to coat the turkey breast evenly.
Letting the turkey rest is very important. Resting for 15-20 minutes after cooking keeps the juices inside. If you cut it too soon, the juices will run out. This makes the turkey dry and less tasty.
Cooking Techniques
To monitor the turkey temperature, use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast. You want the temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures your turkey is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
Cover the turkey loosely with foil for the first part of cooking. This helps keep it moist. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes. This lets the skin crisp up nicely. A golden, crispy skin makes the dish more appealing.
Presentation Ideas
For serving, arrange the sliced turkey on a large platter. This makes for a beautiful display. Surround the turkey with the roasted vegetables for added color and texture.
Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. This not only adds charm but also enhances the aroma. A well-presented dish makes every meal feel like a special occasion.
Pro Tips
- Resting is Key: Allow the turkey to rest after roasting. This step is crucial for redistributing the juices, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it in the thickest part of the turkey breast; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your preference. Fresh parsley, oregano, or even a touch of rosemary can add unique flavors.
- Save the Drippings: Don't forget to save the drippings from the roasting pan! They can be used to make a delicious gravy or sauce that complements your turkey.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap fresh herbs for dried ones. Use one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh. If you lack rosemary, thyme, or sage, try parsley or oregano. They still give great flavor.
If you want to use other turkey parts, consider turkey thighs or drumsticks. These cuts are juicier and add a different taste. They also cook faster than a whole turkey breast.
Flavor Variations
To change the flavor, add spices like paprika or cumin. These spices can give a warm, smoky taste. For a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Citrus flavors can brighten the dish. Try adding orange or lime juice to the herb paste. You can also place citrus slices under the turkey skin for added zest.
Cooking Method Alternatives
If you prefer a slow-cooked turkey, use a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours. This method can make the meat very tender.
Grilling is another option. It gives the turkey a smoky flavor. Just make sure to use indirect heat to keep the meat juicy. Grill for about 1.5 hours, checking the temperature often.
Storage Info
Leftovers Storage
To keep your garlic herb roasted turkey breast fresh, refrigerate it. Wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent drying out. Ensure your fridge is set below 40°F (4°C) for safe storage. Store turkey leftovers for up to four days.
Reheating Instructions
When you reheat your turkey breast, do it slowly. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the turkey in a baking dish and add a splash of chicken broth. Cover with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This helps keep the meat juicy and tasty.
Freezing Guidance
If you want to freeze turkey, first let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. You can also use freezer-safe bags. Mark the date on the bag. It will stay good for 2-3 months in the freezer. To thaw, place the turkey in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, submerge it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Always cook thawed turkey within one to two days for best safety.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long to cook turkey breast per pound? You should cook turkey breast for about 20 minutes per pound. For a 4-5 pound turkey breast, aim for about 1 hour and 30 minutes total cooking time. Always check the internal temperature.
What is the best internal temperature for turkey? The best internal temperature for turkey is 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast to ensure it is safe to eat.
Troubleshooting Tips
What to do if turkey is dry? If your turkey is dry, consider using a flavorful gravy. You can also add moisture by serving with sauces made from the drippings. Another tip is to cover the turkey with foil while it rests.
How to fix undercooked turkey? If your turkey is undercooked, return it to the oven. Cook it until it reaches 165°F (75°C). Check the thickest part of the breast to ensure it is fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
What sides pair well with roasted turkey? Roasted turkey pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce. You can also serve it with stuffing or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use the drippings for gravy? Yes, you can use the drippings for gravy. Strain the drippings to remove solids, then simmer with flour and broth until thickened. It adds rich flavor to your meal.
In this post, we explored how to roast a perfect turkey breast. We covered key ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, and vegetables, and detailed step-by-step instructions. Tips for flavor and presentation helped enhance your dish. I emphasized ingredient variations to fit your taste. Lastly, I shared food storage and reheating tips for leftovers. Understanding these steps will help you create a delicious, memorable turkey. Enjoy your cooking and impress your guests with your new skills!
