Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast

If you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful main dish for your holiday meal or special occasion, Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast is a great choice. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for those who prefer white meat or want a smaller portion, and it is easy to prepare.

The secret to the amazing flavor of this turkey breast is the combination of garlic and a variety of herbs, which infuse the meat with a savory and aromatic taste. The turkey breast is first marinated in a mixture of minced garlic, olive oil, fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and sage, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness.

After marinating for a few hours, the turkey breast is roasted in the oven until it reaches a perfect golden brown color, while staying juicy and tender on the inside. The result is a succulent and aromatic turkey breast that is sure to impress your guests.

Choosing the Perfect Turkey Breast

Freshness

Selecting a fresh turkey breast is crucial for ensuring the best flavor and texture. Look for turkey breasts with firm and plump flesh, without any signs of discoloration or foul odor. Fresh turkey breasts will have a pinkish color and a slightly moist feel to the touch.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the turkey breast is an important consideration, especially if you are cooking for a specific number of people. Calculate approximately 1/2 to 3/4 pound of turkey breast per person to ensure everyone has enough to eat. If you prefer leftovers, you may want to choose a larger turkey breast.

Boneless or Bone-in

Decide whether you want a boneless or bone-in turkey breast. Boneless turkey breasts are easier to slice and serve, while bone-in turkey breasts tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Consider your cooking preferences and the presentation you desire when making this decision.

Grade and Quality

Turkey breasts are typically graded by the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) based on their quality. Look for turkey breasts that are labeled as Grade A, which indicates the highest quality and tenderness.

Organic or Conventional

Consider whether you want to choose an organic or conventional turkey breast. Organic turkey breasts are raised without the use of antibiotics or hormones and are typically fed organic feed. Conventional turkey breasts may be more affordable but may contain additives or be raised with the use of antibiotics.

By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect turkey breast for your Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast recipe, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal for you and your guests.

Preparing the Garlic Herb Marinade

To start, gather all the necessary ingredients for the marinade. This includes fresh garlic cloves, fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Having everything prepared and measured beforehand will make the process smoother.

Next, it’s time to create the marinade. Begin by mincing the garlic cloves finely. The finer the garlic is minced, the more evenly it will distribute throughout the turkey breast. Then, chop the fresh herbs, ensuring they are also finely chopped to release their flavors.

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined. The olive oil will help to distribute the flavors evenly and create a smooth consistency for the marinade.

Once the marinade is ready, it’s time to prepare the turkey breast. Place the turkey breast in a shallow dish or sealable plastic bag, then pour the marinade over it, making sure it is fully coated. Use your hands or a spatula to massage the marinade into the turkey breast, ensuring that every part is covered.

After the turkey breast is thoroughly coated in the marinade, cover the dish or seal the plastic bag and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the turkey breast and develop a rich taste.

Preparing the Garlic Herb Marinade is an important step in creating a flavorful and aromatic Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast. By following these steps and taking the time to marinate the turkey breast, you’ll be rewarded with a succulent and delicious main dish that will impress your guests.

Roasting the Turkey Breast to Perfection

First, it’s important to properly season the turkey breast before roasting. You can create a flavorful herb rub by combining garlic, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly. Let the turkey breast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Tip: If you’re short on time, you can season the turkey breast the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop even further.

Next, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the seasoned turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan, making sure there is enough space around it for proper air circulation. This will help the turkey breast cook evenly and achieve a crispy skin.

1. Roasting Time: As a general rule, roast the turkey breast for about 20 minutes per pound (0.45 kg). So, if you have a 4-pound turkey breast, you’ll need to roast it for approximately 80 minutes. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The turkey breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
2. Basting: To keep the turkey breast moist and flavorful, baste it every 30 minutes with pan juices or melted butter. This will help enhance the flavor and prevent the meat from drying out.

Tip: If the skin starts to brown too quickly, you can tent the turkey breast with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.

Once the turkey breast reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey breast. Enjoy!