Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast Juicy Easy Recipe

Looking to impress at your next gathering? My Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast recipe is your answer! With simple ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, and juicy turkey, you’ll create a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, follow my step-by-step guide to achieve a perfectly roasted turkey that everyone will rave about. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 turkey breast (4-5 lbs), bone-in or boneless

– 6 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh thyme, finely chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

– Zest of 1 lemon

You can choose a bone-in or boneless turkey breast for this dish. Bone-in gives more flavor and moisture. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley add a lovely taste. Garlic gives a strong kick, while lemon zest brightens every bite.

Vegetables and Seasoning

– 2 large onions, quartered

– 4 large carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces

– 3 celery stalks, chopped into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Use onions, carrots, and celery for a tasty veggie bed. They add depth to the flavor. Olive oil helps the herbs stick and adds richness. Don’t forget sea salt and black pepper for seasoning.

Broth and Cooking Essentials

– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

– Aluminum foil for roasting

Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish light and flavorful. Covering the turkey with aluminum foil traps moisture. This helps the turkey stay juicy while cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This heat gives the turkey a crisp skin. While it heats, gather your ingredients. You will need one turkey breast, garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, lemon zest, and some vegetables. The veggies will add flavor and moisture.

Making the Herb Paste

In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, olive oil, lemon zest, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until combined. This paste smells great and will coat the turkey.

Seasoning the Turkey

For a bone-in turkey breast, gently slide your fingers under the skin. Do this carefully, so you don’t break it. If you have a boneless turkey breast, just coat the outside with the herb paste. Rub the paste evenly under the skin and on the exterior. This gives the turkey a rich flavor.

Preparing the Roasting Pan

Take a large roasting pan and create a bed of vegetables. Scatter quartered onions, chopped carrots, and celery across the bottom. These veggies will support the turkey and keep it moist while roasting. Place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the vegetables.

Roasting the Turkey

Pour the chicken broth into the pan. Make sure it goes around the vegetables, not on the turkey skin. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Roast for 1 hour. After that, remove the foil and roast for another 30-45 minutes. The turkey is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Allowing to Rest

Once the turkey is cooked, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices go back into the meat. This way, you will have a juicy turkey when you carve it.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Juiciness

To keep your turkey breast juicy, let it rest after cooking. Resting gives the juices time to spread throughout the meat. This makes every bite flavorful and moist. To check if your turkey is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for clear juices when you cut into the meat. If the juices run clear, your turkey is ready.

Crisping the Skin

To get that golden brown skin, start by roasting at a high heat. First, cover the turkey with foil for the first hour to trap moisture. Then, remove the foil for the last 30 to 45 minutes. This allows the skin to crisp up nicely. You can also brush the skin with olive oil or melted butter before roasting. This adds flavor and helps achieve that crunchy texture.

Flavor Enhancements

For extra flavor, try adding spices or herbs. Consider using sage or oregano alongside rosemary and thyme. You might also mix in some paprika for a smoky taste. If you love heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. These additions can elevate your dish and make it unique. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs to find your perfect blend!

Variations

Different Herb Combinations

You can switch up the herbs to make your turkey unique. Try using sage for a warm flavor. Oregano adds a robust touch, while dill gives a fresh taste. You can mix and match herbs based on what you like. Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried herbs work too. Use one-third of the amount if you choose dried. Experiment with what you have on hand.

Cooking Methods

You can cook your turkey breast in different ways. A slow cooker is a great choice for tender meat. Just place your turkey and veggies inside, add broth, and set it to low. It can cook for about 6-8 hours. An air fryer is another option for a quicker meal. It cooks at high heat, giving the turkey a nice crisp. Set the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 60 minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your garlic herb roasted turkey breast with tasty sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice. They soak up the delicious turkey juices. Roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and color. A fresh salad with lemon dressing brightens the meal. You can also serve stuffing for a cozy feel. Don’t forget crusty bread to mop up the savory broth!

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Turkey

Store leftover turkey in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. Keep the turkey moist by adding some broth. Use it within three to four days for best flavor.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze turkey, slice it first. This helps it thaw faster. Wrap slices in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. Frozen turkey can last up to six months.

Reheating Tips

Reheat turkey gently to keep it juicy. Use the oven for best results. Preheat it to 325°F (163°C). Place the turkey in a baking dish. Add a bit of broth to keep it moist. Cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warm.

FAQs

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

You can tell the turkey is done by checking its internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast. It should read 165°F (74°C). The skin should also look golden brown and crispy. If the juices run clear when you cut into it, that is a good sign. Letting the turkey rest for about 15 minutes helps keep it juicy.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs. Dried herbs have a stronger flavor than fresh herbs. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe needs 1/4 cup of fresh herbs, use 1 tablespoon of dried. Keep in mind that the flavor may differ. Fresh herbs give a bright taste, while dried herbs provide depth.

What should I serve with garlic herb roasted turkey breast?

You can serve many sides with garlic herb roasted turkey breast. Here are some great options:

– Mashed potatoes

– Green beans

– Roasted Brussels sprouts

– Stuffing

– Cranberry sauce

– Salad

These dishes will complement the turkey’s flavors well. They also make the meal feel festive and complete.

This blog post covers everything you need for a perfect garlic herb roasted turkey. We discussed the key ingredients, from turkey breasts to fresh herbs and vegetables. You learned step-by-step how to roast the turkey and keep it juicy. Tips for flavor, variations, and storage ensure your turkey is not only tasty but also easy to manage.

Remember, the right herbs and rest time make all the difference. Enjoy your cooking journey! It’s all about finding your favorite methods and flavors. Happy roastin