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Juicy Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast—Easy Thanksgiving Recipe

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This Juicy Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast is the perfect Thanksgiving centerpiece, featuring a simple herb butter technique that ensures moist, flavorful meat and crispy skin every time. Ready in under 2 hours, it’s ideal for smaller gatherings or when you want a stress-free holiday meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (5–7 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth (optional)
  • 1 small onion, quartered (optional)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Gently slide your fingers under the turkey skin to create a pocket between the skin and the meat, being careful not to tear the skin.
  5. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter evenly under the skin, directly onto the meat. Use your fingers to massage it into every part of the breast.
  6. Spread the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey.
  7. Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey and use a pastry brush or your hands to spread it evenly.
  8. If using, pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Add the quartered onion and any extra herb sprigs. Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack or directly on the onion bed.
  9. Roast the turkey for 15 minutes at 425°F. Then, without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue roasting for about 45-60 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured at the thickest part of the breast.
  10. Start checking the temperature at the 45-minute mark after reducing the heat. If the skin is browning too quickly, tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15-20 minutes of roasting.
  11. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 15-20 minutes before carving. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
  12. Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice the turkey against the grain. Arrange on a platter and spoon any pan juices over the top if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting step—it allows juices to redistribute. Use a thermometer for accuracy. If skin tears, don’t panic; the flavor will still be incredible. Let turkey come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking. Save pan drippings for gravy.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, herb butter, roasted turkey, Thanksgiving, easy turkey recipe, juicy turkey

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/juicy-herb-butter-roasted-turkey-breasteasy-thanksgiving-recipe/