Description
This Perfectly Juicy Roast Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, flavorful turkey with a beautifully crisp skin through a two-temperature roasting technique. Seasoned with thyme and butter under the skin, this method ensures moist meat and a golden brown finish, perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Breast
- 4 pound (1.8 kg) boneless, skin-on turkey breast
Seasoning and Butter
- ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon finely chopped thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Place the oven rack in the lower third position and preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high initial heat will help create a crisp, golden skin while sealing in the turkey’s juices.
- Season the Surface: Thoroughly dry the turkey breast using paper towels. Season the bottom side evenly with about ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Flip the breast over so the skin side is up. Dry turkey skin is essential for achieving a crispy finish.
- Season Under the Skin: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of softened butter with ½ teaspoon salt and the finely chopped thyme. Gently loosen the skin from the thickest part of the turkey breast, keeping the edges attached, and evenly rub the butter mixture under the skin to infuse flavor and retain moisture.
- Brush with Butter: Brush approximately 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the turkey skin. Sprinkle evenly with the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. This butter coating promotes browning and enhances flavor.
- Roast the Meat: Place the turkey breast on a wire rack set atop a sheet tray. Roast in the preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes to develop the crispy skin. Then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 160 to 165°F (72 to 74°C), about 30 to 45 minutes.
- Let it Rest: Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest uncovered for 20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains moist and tender when sliced.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Loosening the skin carefully is key to keeping it intact while seasoning underneath.
- Resting the turkey is essential for juicy slices.
- This method works well for skin-on, boneless turkey breast pieces of similar size.
- Adjust seasoning amounts slightly depending on the size of the turkey breast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
