How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs

Discover the perfect Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs recipe—juicy, flavorful, and easy to make for any occasion. This dish combines succulent turkey breast with a fragrant blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and subtle spices to create a mouthwatering meal that’s both impressive and accessible. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers moist turkey with a crispy, herb-infused crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet impressive: This Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs is straightforward to prepare but looks and tastes like something from a gourmet kitchen.
• Juicy and tender results: The method ensures the turkey stays moist and flavorful every time.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this recipe fits right in.
• Fresh herb aroma: The use of fresh garlic and herbs adds a wonderful fragrance that enhances the turkey’s natural flavor.
• Versatile and adaptable: Easy to tweak with variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Using simple but essential ingredients, this Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs recipe relies on fresh elements that each bring something special to the table—from savory depth to vibrant color and texture.

• Turkey breast: Choose a fresh, skin-on turkey breast for maximum flavor and juicy meat.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic adds robust flavor and pairs beautifully with herbs.
• Fresh herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and parsley infuse the turkey with bright, earthy notes.
• Olive oil: Used to create a flavorful herb rub and helps crisp the skin.
• Lemon zest and juice: Adds a subtle zing that cuts through rich flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to enhance and balance the taste.
• Optional spices: Paprika or crushed red pepper can boost flavor complexity if desired.

Variations for Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs

Feel free to customize this recipe easily to match your personal tastes or dietary requirements. These variations allow you to keep things exciting while maintaining the dish’s core deliciousness.

• Herb butter glaze: Swap olive oil for herb-infused butter for a richer, creamier finish.
• Citrus twist: Add orange or lime zest instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate cayenne or smoked paprika to add gentle heat without overpowering.
• Gluten-free option: Ensure all spices and ingredients are gluten-free for sensitive diets without altering flavor.
• Stuffed turkey breast: Fill the breast with spinach, cheese, and herbs before roasting to ramp up the indulgence.

How to Make Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Garlic Rub

Combine olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until you achieve a fragrant, oily herb paste that will coat the turkey breast perfectly.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to help the rub stick better. Rub the herb garlic paste thoroughly over the entire surface of the turkey, making sure to cover under the skin gently where possible for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Roasting

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned turkey breast on a roasting rack inside a shallow pan to allow even cooking and air circulation around the meat.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey Breast

Roast the turkey breast for approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on size. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, cover the turkey loosely with foil and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This step redistributes the juices, guaranteeing moist and tender slices.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs

• Room temperature:** Let the turkey breast sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting to promote even cooking.
• Don’t skip resting:** Resting is crucial to keep the meat juicy by allowing juices to settle.
• Use a thermometer: This ensures perfectly cooked meat without the guesswork.
• Fresh herbs matter: Fresh is key for vibrant flavors; dried herbs won’t provide the same brightness.
• Skin on for crispiness: Keeping the skin intact helps lock in moisture and adds a delightful crunch.

How to Serve Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs

Garnishes

Brighten your presentation with fresh herb sprigs like rosemary or thyme, alongside lemon wedges that guests can squeeze for extra zing. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze can add an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

Roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes complement the herbaceous turkey beautifully. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad or sautéed green beans works well to balance richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the turkey breast thin and arrange it on a platter layered with fresh herbs or alongside cranberry sauce or a tangy mustard dip. You can also create elegant turkey sliders with fresh rolls and herb aioli for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover roasted turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when kept properly chilled.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the turkey and place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Properly wrapped roasted turkey breast can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating

To retain moisture, reheat turkey slices gently in the oven wrapped in foil or use a microwave with a damp paper towel covering the meat. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out the succulent turkey breast.

FAQs

Can I use boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, boneless turkey breast works well and often makes slicing easier—but be mindful of the cooking time since it may cook faster than bone-in pieces.

How do I ensure the turkey stays moist while roasting?

Using a garlic and herb rub with olive oil, letting the turkey rest after cooking, and monitoring the internal temperature with a meat thermometer are keys to juicy results.

Is it necessary to baste the turkey during cooking?

Basting is optional for this recipe because the herb oil keeps the breast moist, but occasionally spooning pan juices over the meat can enhance flavor and browning.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe naturally contains no gluten, but always double-check seasonings and any packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

What herbs work best for this recipe if I don’t have rosemary?

Thyme and sage are excellent substitutes that complement garlic beautifully and still deliver that aromatic herbal flavor.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs is genuinely one of those recipes you’ll reach for again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Don’t hesitate to try this dish and enjoy the delightful combination of juicy turkey and fragrant herbs—it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Roasted Turkey Breast with Garlic and Herbs

Print Recipe

Juicy and flavorful roasted turkey breast infused with garlic and fresh herbs, perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe delivers moist turkey with a crispy, herb-infused crust that’s impressive yet accessible for family dinners or special gatherings.

• Author: Mary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 to 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Turkey and Main Ingredients

• 1 fresh skin-on turkey breast (approximately 2 to 3 pounds)
• 4 to 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika or crushed red pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Herb Garlic Rub: Combine olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until you achieve a fragrant, oily herb paste suitable for coating the turkey breast.
2. Season the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to help the rub adhere better. Rub the herb garlic paste thoroughly over the entire surface of the turkey, gently working some under the skin if possible for maximum flavor infusion.
3. Preheat and Prepare for Roasting: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned turkey breast on a roasting rack inside a shallow pan to ensure even cooking and air circulation around the meat.
4. Roast the Turkey Breast: Roast the turkey breast for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to confirm it reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
5. Rest Before Serving: After removing from the oven, loosely cover the turkey with foil and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender slices.

Notes

• Let the turkey breast sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting to promote even cooking.
• Resting the meat after roasting is crucial to keep it juicy by allowing the juices to settle.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked turkey without guesswork.
• Fresh herbs are preferred for vibrant flavor; dried herbs won’t yield the same brightness.
• Keeping the skin on helps lock in moisture and adds a delightful crispy texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 oz (112 g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: roasted turkey breast, garlic and herbs, juicy turkey recipe, oven roasted turkey, easy turkey breast recipe, gluten free turkey recipe