Roast turkey is a Thanksgiving staple. It’s a tender, juicy turkey encased in a crisp, savory skin. Because it’s roasted, it doesn’t need any messy saucing. A simple splice rub or dry brining will do the trick. Roasted turkey breasts are actually one of the easiest dishes you can make.
But if a roasted turkey is easy, a roasted turkey breast is even easier: While a whole turkey may be hard to find after the holidays, turkey breasts are readily available at supermarkets year-round.
Oven roasted turkey breast is a great choice for a small Thanksgiving dinner or for white meat lovers alike. A popular sandwich meat, roasted turkey breast is available at the deli counter, but why not try making it at home?
Here you’ll learn how to make a roasted turkey breast, plus we’ll show you how to buy and prepare turkey breasts for your meal.
Ingredients for Roast Turkey Breast
To make roasted turkey breasts you will need the following ingredients:
Bone-in, skin-on turkey breast: Approximately 6-7 pounds. Bone-in, skin-on turkey breast is recommended as it retains moisture better and has more flavor. However, you can choose smaller boneless turkey breasts if you prefer. You will need to reduce the roasting time. Check for doneness after 45 minutes. Unsalted butter: This helps the spice mix stick to the turkey and adds moisture to the meat as it melts. Salt: To season the turkey. Light brown sugar: A little sweetness is best in a turkey spice rub. It balances all the flavors. Dijon mustard: The mustard adds a tangy flavor and brightness to the spice rub. Garlic: Don’t worry about the amount of garlic. Garlic becomes sweeter and less hot as it roasts. Lemon zest: Adds a bit of citrus and floral notes. Fresh thyme: Thyme adds a peppery flavor and a hint of floral aroma. Sage: A classic turkey flavor. Rosemary: A subtle woodsy scent that’s perfect for this holiday feast. Black pepper: A finishing touch.
How to Roast a Turkey Breast
Roasting a turkey breast is super easy, we’ll outline the process here, and you’ll find a step-by-step guide further down.
Step 1. First, mix together the butter, salt, sugar, mustard, garlic, lemon zest, thyme, sage, rosemary, and pepper. Step 2. Next, press the seasoned butter mixture between the skin and the breast, then place it on top of the skin. Step 3. Let the turkey breast sit at room temperature for an hour before roasting. This will result in a more evenly cooked bird. You can also leave the turkey in the fridge overnight, but it should be left out for at least an hour before roasting. Step 4. Preheat the oven to 450°F. After the hour, transfer the turkey to the preheated oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F. Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes (maybe a little longer depending on the size of the turkey breast).
Test Kitchen Tips
Using a meat thermometer is essential to ensure your turkey is not undercooked or overcooked.
Boneless vs. bone-in turkey breasts
Besides the obvious differences (bone-in vs. boneless), there are a few other important differences to consider: First, bone-in turkey breasts are larger than boneless ones, coming in at about 6 pounds each, while boneless turkey breasts can be as small as 3 pounds.
Bone-in breasts are usually two breasts connected by a bone, while boneless breasts are usually just one breast or half a turkey breast.
Boneless turkey breasts also require less cooking time. If you use this recipe with boneless roasted turkey breasts, you will need to reduce the cooking time. Check the internal temperature of the breasts after 45 minutes to avoid overcooking them.
How long does it take to roast a turkey breast?
The average turkey breast will take about 15 to 20 minutes to bake per pound to reach the desired doneness, which is 165°F (74°C). If your oven is cooler, it will take longer.
At 350°F, it will take 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, but trust your thermometer, not your watch.
What to Serve with Roast Turkey Breast
No turkey dinner is complete without mashed potatoes, sweet potato soufflé, giblet gravy, and cranberry sauce.
Turkey is often eaten as a main dish at Thanksgiving, accompanied by traditional side dishes, but it can also be added to sandwiches and salads, or used in tacos and soups.
How to store leftover turkey breasts
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warm, or serve cold.
Roasted turkey breast is so delicious, don’t be surprised if it’s all gone, but if you roasted a turkey for leftovers, or if you happen to have some left over after the meal, you can use it for traditional Thanksgiving sandwiches, turkey soup, or a turkey pasta bake.
Editorial contribution by Amy Sherman.
