Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast

There’s something truly comforting about a perfectly roasted turkey breast infused with fresh herbs and garlic. This Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast recipe transforms a simple boneless turkey breast into a juicy, flavorful centerpiece that’s ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy weekend meal. The blend of garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and lemon not only brightens the dish but also imparts a deliciously fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it a must-try for anyone who loves easy yet elegant poultry dishes.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Roasting a turkey breast with garlic and fresh herbs is a game-changer for poultry lovers. Here’s why this Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast has become a fan favorite:

• Juicy and Tender: Cooking a boneless turkey breast ensures even cooking and retains moisture, avoiding the dryness often associated with turkey.
• Fresh Herb Flavor: The combination of rosemary, thyme, and parsley adds a garden-fresh taste that complements the natural richness of turkey meat.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation make it accessible, yet the end result feels special enough for celebrations.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Adding lemon zest and juice brightens the flavors, cutting through richness and adding a subtle tang.
• Versatile Serving Options: This roasted turkey breast pairs beautifully with side dishes like a vibrant Fresh Herb Potato Salad or a freshly baked bread like Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 boneless turkey breast (about 2-3 pounds)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Essential Tools for Success

• Roasting Pan or Baking Dish: Large enough to comfortably hold the turkey breast and catch drippings.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the turkey breast reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking.
• Sharp Knife: For trimming and slicing the turkey breast after roasting.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the garlic, herbs, lemon, and olive oil for the marinade.
• Basting Brush or Spoon: To evenly coat the turkey with the garlic herb mixture.

Mastering Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Begin by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to help the herb mixture stick and promote even browning. Set the turkey aside on a clean plate or tray.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning based on your preference.

Step 3: Coat the Turkey Breast

Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat the entire turkey breast with the garlic herb mixture. Make sure to rub some underneath the skin if possible for deeper flavor penetration. Let the coated turkey rest for 15-30 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing the oven while the turkey rests ensures an immediate and even start to roasting.

Step 5: Roast the Turkey Breast

Place the turkey breast in the roasting pan or baking dish, skin side up. Roast uncovered in the preheated oven. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey breast, but generally, plan for about 20 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once out of the oven, tent the turkey breast loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender final product. After resting, slice the turkey breast against the grain for the best texture.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add a handful of fresh sage leaves to the herb mixture for a warm, earthy note perfect for fall and winter meals.
• Stuff the turkey breast cavity (if using a bone-in breast) with a few lemon wedges and additional rosemary sprigs to infuse extra aroma.
• Serve alongside roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes for a seasonal feast.
• Drizzle a homemade pan sauce or gravy made with the roasting juices, white wine, or chicken broth to elevate the dish.

Cook’s Notes

• Choosing Your Turkey Breast: Opt for a fresh, boneless turkey breast for ease of preparation and even cooking.
• Garlic Intensity: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the cloves to 2 or roast the garlic beforehand for sweetness.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to swap parsley or rosemary with herbs like oregano or marjoram for different flavor profiles.
• Resting is Key: Never skip the resting phase; it’s essential for juicy slices.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers? No problem! Store your cooked turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) wrapped in foil to retain moisture.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Ask & Learn

Can I prepare this recipe with bone-in turkey breast?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on boneless turkey breast for ease and speed, using a bone-in turkey breast will add extra flavor during roasting. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, generally around 25 minutes per pound, and always rely on a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.

What can I serve with Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast?

This turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider fresh, light options like a Fresh Herb Potato Salad or crusty artisan breads such as Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread. Roasted vegetables and green beans also complement the dish beautifully.

Is it possible to prepare this dish without fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs provide the best flavor and aroma, you can substitute dried herbs if needed. Use about one-third the amount of dried rosemary, thyme, and parsley in place of fresh. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so adjust cautiously to avoid overpowering the turkey.

How do I know when the turkey breast is fully cooked?

The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey breast; when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), the turkey is safe and ready to eat. Overcooking can dry out the meat, so keep an eye on the temperature toward the end of cooking.

Explore More

• Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread – A perfect partner to your roasted turkey for a satisfying meal.
• Fresh Herb Potato Salad – A bright and refreshing side dish bursting with garden flavors.
• Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables – Complement your main course with a medley of seasonal veggies.
• Lemon Herb Dressing Recipes – Discover dressings that brighten your salads and sides.

Wrap-Up

This Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is a brilliant way to enjoy tender, juicy turkey with a fresh and vibrant herbaceous twist. Its simplicity does not sacrifice flavor, making it an ideal choice for both everyday dinners and special gatherings. The aromatic combination of garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and lemon ensures each bite is bursting with taste. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, including the delightful Fresh Herb Potato Salad and warm Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread to round out your meal. With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe invites you to enjoy the best of roasted turkey without fuss or stress.

Elevate your next meal with this flavorful, easy-to-make Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast — your taste buds will thank you!

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