If you’re looking for the ultimate showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to pull off, Oven Roasted Turkey Breast absolutely deserves a spot on your dining table. With a golden, crackling skin and juicy, herb-scented meat beneath, this dish serves up all the classic comfort of a holiday feast—without the stress of fussing over a whole bird. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or just want to level up your weeknight dinners, Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is a delicious, versatile favorite that transforms simple ingredients into pure magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps your shopping list refreshingly brief, but every item earns its place. Each ingredient plays a role—from the herbs that brighten the flavor to the chicken broth that guarantees the meat stays moist and tender. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
- Turkey Breast: Bone-in and skin-on keeps the meat juicy, while allowing for that crave-worthy crispy skin.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter infuses rich flavor and helps brown the skin.
- Olive Oil: Works with butter to make the herb paste ultra-spreadable and adds heart-healthy richness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a punch of aromatic, savory depth.
- Fresh Rosemary: Adds piney, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with turkey.
- Fresh Thyme: Delivers subtle citrus and floral notes to liven up the meat.
- Fresh Parsley: Brings a clean, herby finish and pop of color.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning every layer and pulling out the turkey’s natural flavors.
- Black Pepper: Rounds out the herb blend with a gentle kick of heat.
- Chicken Broth: Keeps the roasting pan moist, which basts the turkey from underneath and prevents it from drying out.
How to Make Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
First things first: get your oven going at 350°F. While it preheats, pat your turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. This step matters—dry skin leads to maximum crispiness! Go ahead and set your turkey on a rack in your roasting pan so air circulates all around it, which helps everything cook evenly.
Step 2: Make the Herb Butter
Mix together the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This fragrant paste is the flavor backbone of your Oven Roasted Turkey Breast. The combination of butter and olive oil lets the herbs meld into every bite, and the garlic just brings it all together.
Step 3: Season the Turkey
Now, here’s where you take it up a notch. Gently work your fingers between the turkey skin and meat to create a pocket, being careful not to tear the skin. Spread half the herb butter right onto the meat under the skin—this infuses flavor deep into the turkey. Smear the rest all over the outside of the breast for a gorgeous, flavorful crust.
Step 4: Add Broth and Roast
Pour a cup of chicken broth into the bottom of your roasting pan. This will help bathe the turkey in steam so it won’t dry out. Place your beautifully seasoned turkey breast into the heated oven, uncovered, and let it start transforming into roasted perfection.
Step 5: Baste and Bake
Every 30 minutes, pull out the pan and baste the turkey breast with its own savory juices. Basting keeps the meat moist and builds flavor with each pass. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part—usually about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
When your Oven Roasted Turkey Breast hits that perfect temperature, let it rest on a cutting board for about 15 minutes before carving. This lets the juices settle back into the meat for slices that are ultra-moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
Garnishes
Simple, vibrant garnishes make your turkey breast look as inviting as it tastes. Sprinkle on freshly chopped parsley, add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme, and maybe scatter some bright pomegranate seeds or orange wedges for a little extra flair. The herbs echo the flavors baked into the turkey, tying everything together for an irresistible presentation.
Side Dishes
Oven Roasted Turkey Breast pairs beautifully with all the classics—think buttery mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and a zesty cranberry sauce. If you want lighter options, try a crisp green salad or sautéed greens. The mild, juicy turkey is truly a canvas for your favorite sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Slice thick pieces for a hearty family-style platter or carve thin, elegant slices for sandwiches and salads. For a holiday-worthy display, surround your turkey breast with roasted vegetables and drizzle the pan juices over the top just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Oven Roasted Turkey Breast keeps its juicy tenderness if wrapped tightly in foil or an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of serving. Stored this way, it’ll stay delicious for up to four days—perfect for quick meals or snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to freeze extra portions, slice the turkey breast off the bone and pack it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Removing as much air as possible helps prevent freezer burn. The meat can be frozen for up to three months with no loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Oven Roasted Turkey Breast gently in a covered baking dish with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Warm it in a 325°F oven until heated through, or cover loosely and microwave in short bursts if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use boneless turkey breast instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless turkey breast works well, though it may cook a bit faster and can sometimes be slightly less moist. Just be sure to check the internal temperature earlier and adjust your roasting time as needed.
Can I make this recipe with dried herbs?
Yes, you can swap dried herbs for fresh if needed. Use about one teaspoon of each dried herb instead of a tablespoon of fresh; dried herbs are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
How do I get extra-crispy skin on my Oven Roasted Turkey Breast?
For ultra-crisp skin, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes of roasting. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning—your turkey will emerge with a beautifully bronzed crust.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Definitely! Oven Roasted Turkey Breast welcomes creativity. Feel free to mix in smoked paprika, lemon zest, or even a pinch of cayenne to the herb butter for a twist that matches your taste.
How do I know when my turkey breast is done?
Always use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast—165°F is your goal. The juices should run clear and the skin will be crispy and golden when it’s ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hoping to impress without the hassle, Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is the answer. Once you try this easy, flavor-packed method, it just might become your go-to for holidays and cozy dinners alike. Give it a go and savor every juicy, herby bite!
Print
Oven Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Oven Roasted Turkey Breast recipe results in a juicy and flavorful turkey with crispy skin, perfect for your holiday table or any special occasion. The herb butter paste adds aromatic flavors that complement the tender turkey meat.
Ingredients
For the Turkey:
- 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (5–6 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry and place it on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Make the Herb Butter: Mix butter, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Season the Turkey: Rub half of the herb butter under the turkey skin and spread the rest over the outside.
- Add Broth: Pour chicken broth into the pan.
- Roast the Turkey: Roast uncovered for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Carve: Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Notes
- For extra-crispy skin, broil for the last few minutes.
- You can substitute dried herbs for fresh.
- Leftovers are great for sandwiches or salads.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
