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Perfect Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

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A budget-friendly, juicy herb butter roasted turkey breast that’s perfect for family dinners. This forgiving recipe delivers crispy skin and tender meat with minimal fuss, using simple ingredients and a clever technique to keep the breast moist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (3–4 pounds)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, leaves stripped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup chicken or turkey broth
  • Optional: carrots, celery, onion for the pan

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Take the turkey breast out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes to take the chill off.
  2. Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispy skin.
  3. Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mash together with a fork until evenly distributed.
  4. Loosen the skin: Using your fingers, gently work your way under the skin of the turkey breast, starting from the top edge, to create a pocket between the skin and the meat. Be careful not to tear the skin.
  5. Spread the herb butter under the skin: Take about two-thirds of the herb butter and push it under the loosened skin. Use your fingers to spread it evenly over the meat.
  6. Rub the remaining butter on the outside: Spread the rest of the herb butter all over the top and sides of the turkey breast.
  7. Season the skin: Sprinkle the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper over the skin. Drizzle with the olive oil and rub it in gently.
  8. Prepare the pan: If using a rack, place it in your roasting pan or baking dish. If using vegetable chunks, arrange them in a single layer in the bottom of the pan. Pour the ½ cup of broth into the pan, being careful not to splash it onto the turkey skin.
  9. Place the turkey breast on the rack or vegetables, skin-side up.
  10. Roast for 60-75 minutes. Start checking the temperature at the 50-minute mark.
  11. Check the temperature: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. Look for 160°F (71°C). The temperature will rise to 165°F (74°C) as it rests.
  12. Let it rest: Transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
  13. Make a quick pan sauce (optional): While the turkey rests, place the roasting pan over medium heat (or transfer drippings to a small saucepan). Whisk in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken, then simmer for 2-3 minutes. Strain out vegetables if used. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  14. Slice and serve: Carve the breast against the grain into ½-inch thick slices. Pour any accumulated juices over the meat before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting time—it allows juices to redistribute. If the skin browns too quickly, tent with foil. Use a thermometer, not a timer, for best results. Let butter soften naturally for easy spreading. The herb butter under the skin is key to keeping the meat moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: herb butter roasted turkey breast, easy turkey breast recipe, juicy turkey breast, budget-friendly turkey, roasted turkey breast, family dinner

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/perfect-herb-butter-roasted-turkey-breast-recipe/