Are you tired of dry, bland turkey that leaves your guests reaching for extra gravy? Get ready to revolutionize your cooking with this incredibly simple yet mouthwatering turkey breast recipe that will have everyone asking for your culinary secrets! In just a few easy steps, you'll transform an ordinary turkey breast into a restaurant-quality dish that's guaranteed to impress, whether you're hosting a family dinner or a special holiday meal.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey breast (4-6 lbs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking turkey breast, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
- Rinse the whole turkey breast under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures the skin gets crispy during cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Rub the olive oil mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to cover it evenly. Use your hands to gently lift the skin and apply some of the seasoning directly onto the meat for extra flavor.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. If desired, you can add chopped vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery around the turkey for added flavor and a delicious side dish.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding the bone. This will help you monitor the internal temperature as it cooks.
- Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey breast with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Once the turkey breast has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender.
- After resting, slice the turkey breast against the grain into thin slices. Serve it warm with your favorite sides, and enjoy your easy and delicious turkey breast!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey breast reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Always thoroughly dry the turkey breast with paper towels before seasoning to achieve that irresistibly crispy exterior.
- Season Under the Skin: Don't just coat the outside! Gently lift the skin and rub some seasoning directly on the meat for maximum flavor penetration.
- Basting is Crucial: Baste your turkey breast every 30 minutes to keep the meat incredibly moist and prevent it from drying out.
- Rest is Best: Never skip the resting period! Letting the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and succulent.
- Slice Against the Grain: When carving, always slice against the grain of the meat to ensure the most tender and easy-to-chew pieces.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 150mg
