Roasted Turkey Breast with Herb Butter Recipe
This roasted turkey breast recipe features a succulent, herb-infused butter that penetrates the meat for a flavorful and moist outcome. Perfect for a special dinner or holiday meal, the turkey is seasoned with fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme, then roasted slowly to juicy perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 to 8 1x
- Category: Poultry
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Herb Butter Mixture
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 10 leaves fresh sage
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Main Ingredient
- 1 turkey breast, 4-6 pounds, patted dry
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and ensure the bottom rack is the only rack inside the oven for optimal roasting conditions.
- Prepare the turkey breast: Place the turkey breast in a large roasting pan and pat it dry with paper towels, making sure to dry both the inside cavity and outer skin thoroughly.
- Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter with fresh rosemary, sage, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of this mixture for finishing the turkey after roasting.
- Apply butter under the skin: Carefully use the back of a spoon to gently lift the skin from the turkey breast without tearing it. Spread the herb butter underneath the skin, then smooth the skin back down to evenly distribute the butter over the meat.
- Roast the turkey: Place the roasting pan with the turkey in the preheated oven and cook for about 90 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and rest: Remove the turkey from the oven. Top the turkey breast with the reserved herb butter and allow it to rest for 20 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting step ensures the juices redistribute for maximum juiciness.
Notes
- Allowing the butter to come to room temperature before mixing makes it easier to blend with herbs.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking.
- You can add vegetables under the pan to catch drippings and turn them into delicious sides or gravy.
- Leftover turkey breast can be used for sandwiches or salads.
- If the skin tears while lifting, try to patch it back gently; the butter will still flavor the meat well.
Keywords: roasted turkey breast, herb butter turkey, holiday turkey recipe, juicy turkey breast, oven roasted turkey
