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Oven roasted turkey breast with crispy skin and flavorful herbs for Thanksgiving dinner.

Thanksgiving Turkey Breast

A simple and juicy turkey breast recipe perfect for Thanksgiving without the stress of cooking a whole bird.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Thanksgiving
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Turkey Breast and Seasoning
  • 1 each Turkey breast, bone-in or boneless (about 3 to 6 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup Butter, softened (or olive oil if you prefer) For moist and flavorful turkey.
  • to taste Salt Be generous with seasoning.
  • to taste Black pepper Be generous with seasoning.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • 1 tsp Paprika For color and a little warm flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary, optional) Adds additional flavor.
Vegetable and Broth
  • 1 each Onion, roughly sliced (optional) Adds flavor and moisture.
  • 1-2 cup Broth (chicken or turkey) Keeps drippings from burning.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat your oven to 375°F. Let the turkey breast sit out for 20 to 30 minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
  2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
  3. Mix the softened butter with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir in chopped fresh herbs if using.
  4. Rub the seasoned butter all over the turkey breast, including under the skin if applicable.
Roasting
  1. Set the turkey in a roasting pan or baking dish. Scatter onion slices in the pan and pour broth around the turkey.
  2. Roast until the thickest part of the turkey hits 165°F, usually around 60 to 90 minutes for a 3 to 4 pound breast.
  3. Rest the turkey for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer for best results. Don't forget to let the turkey rest for juicy slices. Consider making quick gravy with the pan drippings.