Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast – Tender & Easy Main

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Introduction

Throughout my years in kitchens across the globe, from bustling Parisian bistros to serene Michelin-starred dining rooms, I’ve learned one universal truth: elegance often lies in simplicity. The frantic energy of a holiday or a special Sunday dinner can make any home cook feel overwhelmed. But what if I told you that the most succulent, memorable main course doesn’t require days of brining or a complex list of techniques? This Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast is my answer to that challenge. It’s a testament to the power of high-quality ingredients and a simple, yet profound, method. We infuse a compound butter with fresh herbs and garlic, creating a self-basting system that results in incredibly moist meat and perfectly crisped skin. Let’s explore why this recipe will become your new go-to centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

• Incredibly Moist & Flavorful: The herb butter, slathered both under and over the skin, melts during roasting, continuously basting the turkey to ensure every bite is tender and juicy.
• Effortlessly Elegant: This dish presents beautifully with its golden-brown skin and fragrant aroma, making it perfect for holidays or special occasions without the stress of roasting a whole bird.
• Quick & Simple Preparation: Forget complicated brines. The prep work takes less than 20 minutes, getting this stunning main into the oven with minimal fuss.
• Perfectly Scaled: A turkey breast is ideal for smaller gatherings, feeding a family without the days of leftovers that a full turkey brings.

Preparation Time and Servings

This quick recipe delivers a show-stopping main course in under two hours, making it perfect for a stress-free yet impressive meal.

⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
⏰ Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
💡 Difficulty: Easy
👥 Servings: 6-8 people

Ingredients List

For the Herb Butter:

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, leaves removed from stem
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Turkey:

• 1 boneless turkey breast (3 to 4 lbs), skin-on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken or turkey broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Select a roasting pan or large oven-safe skillet just big enough to hold the turkey breast. Place a small wire rack inside if you have one.
2. Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, and black pepper. Mix with a fork until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
3. Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving crispy skin. Gently slide your fingers between the skin and the breast meat, being careful not to tear the skin, to create a pocket.
4. Apply the Butter: Take about two-thirds of the herb butter mixture and rub it directly onto the meat underneath the skin. Spread the remaining one-third of the butter all over the exterior of the skin.
5. Season and Roast: Rub the olive oil over the buttered skin, then season generously with kosher salt. Place the turkey breast on the rack in your prepared pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to create steam and keep the meat moist.
6. Cook to Perfection: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15-30 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C). The skin should be a deep golden brown.
7. Rest is Best: Remove the turkey from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender slice.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the single most important tool for cooking poultry. It removes all guesswork and is the only way to guarantee your Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast is cooked perfectly—not a moment too long.
• Bring Turkey to Room Temperature: Let the turkey breast sit on the counter for about 30-45 minutes before roasting. This helps it cook more evenly from edge to center.
• Don’t Waste the Pan Drippings: After removing the turkey, you’ll have a pan full of delicious, concentrated flavor. Use these drippings to make a quick and amazing gravy.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other woody herbs like marjoram or savory. For a brighter flavor, add a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley to the butter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a bone-in turkey breast for this recipe?

Absolutely. A bone-in breast will require a longer cooking time. A good rule of thumb is to add approximately 15-20 minutes of cooking time per pound. As always, rely on your meat thermometer and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the most accurate results.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in an oven-safe dish with a splash of chicken broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through. This method prevents the meat from drying out.

Conclusion

There you have it—a truly sublime main course that is as simple to prepare as it is impressive to serve. This Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast delivers on every front: crisp skin, succulent meat, and an aromatic flavor that will fill your home. It’s a recipe that proves great food doesn’t need to be complicated. Don’t forget to share this flavor-packed recipe with your friends and family!

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