
Garlic and Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
Indulge in the rich flavors of our savory Garlic and Herb Roasted Turkey Breast recipe. Perfect for a festive occasion or a special family dinner, this culinary masterpiece features a 6 and 1/2 lb bone-in turkey breast, infused with a delightful blend of fresh herbs and zesty garlic. Follow our easy step-by-step guide for a mouthwatering experience that will leave your guests craving more.
Herb Infusion Technique: The recipe utilizes a unique herb infusion technique by separating the turkey skin from the flesh and stuffing a flavorful garlic butter mixture underneath. This method not only enhances the taste of the meat but also ensures that the herbs and spices permeate throughout the turkey, creating a savory and aromatic experience.
Dual Citrus Impact: The inclusion of both lemon zest and juice in the marinade provides a dual citrus impact, infusing the turkey with a refreshing and zesty flavor profile. The combination of lemon zest for its aromatic oils and lemon juice for acidity creates a well-balanced marinade that elevates the overall taste of the roasted turkey breast, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
FAQs
1. What is the best way to prepare a garlic and herb roasted turkey breast?
The best way to prepare a garlic and herb roasted turkey breast is by separating the skin from the flesh, creating a flavorful garlic butter mixture, and stuffing it under the skin for maximum flavor and juiciness.
2. How long does it take to roast a turkey breast at 325°F?
It typically takes about 2 hours to roast a 6 1/2 lb bone-in turkey breast at 325°F (165°C), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. What are the key ingredients in a garlic and herb roasted turkey breast?
Key ingredients include garlic, sage, rosemary, thyme, lemon, olive oil, mustard, kosher salt, and butter for a savory and aromatic flavor profile.
4. Can I use chicken stock instead of white wine for roasting turkey breast?
Yes, you can substitute chicken stock for white wine. Both provide moisture and enhance the flavor of the turkey.
5. How can I make the skin on my roasted turkey breast crispy?
For crispy skin, you can roast the turkey breast at 325°F until it's cooked through, and then broil it for 2-3 minutes to crisp up the skin.
6. How do I know when my turkey breast is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. When it reaches 165°F (74°C), your turkey breast is fully cooked.
7. Should I marinate the turkey breast before roasting?
While marinating is not necessary, stuffing the garlic butter mixture under the skin helps to infuse the turkey with flavor, making it more tender and juicy.
8. What sides pair well with garlic and herb roasted turkey breast?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stuffing, green beans, and rice pilaf are great sides to pair with this dish.
9. How do I prepare the garlic and herb butter for the turkey?
Blend minced garlic, fresh herbs (sage, rosemary, thyme), lemon zest and juice, and olive oil in a food processor. Combine with room-temperature butter to create a flavorful garlic butter mixture.
10. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs. Use about 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs as you would for fresh ones.
11. Can I make garlic and herb roasted turkey breast ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and marinate the turkey breast a day ahead of time, but it’s best to roast the turkey fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
12. What type of wine is best for roasting turkey breast?
A dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works best for roasting, providing acidity and enhancing the flavor of the turkey.
13. Can I cook a turkey breast without stuffing the garlic butter mixture under the skin?
Yes, you can cook the turkey breast without stuffing it, but the flavor won’t be as rich. The garlic butter under the skin keeps the meat moist and infuses more flavor.
14. How do I carve a roasted turkey breast?
Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Then, slice the breast against the grain for tender, juicy meat.
15. Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead of a bone-in turkey breast?
Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast. However, the cooking time will be shorter—check for doneness when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Make it
Savory Garlic and Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
A flavorful and succulent roasted turkey breast with a savory garlic and herb butter infusion. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion!
Ingredients:
6 1/2 lb bone-in turkey breast
1 full head of garlic
Fresh Sage (1-2 sprigs)
Fresh Rosemary (1-2 sprigs)
Fresh Thyme (1-2 sprigs)
Zest and juice of one lemon
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 teaspoons of ground mustard
3 teaspoons of kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup of room temperature butter
1 cup of white wine or chicken stock
Instructions:
Preparation:
Gently separate the turkey skin from the flesh, being careful not to tear the skin.
Peel the full head of garlic.
Herb Marinade:
In a small food processor, combine the garlic cloves, fresh Sage, Rosemary, Thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Add olive oil, ground mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Pulse until well combined.
Garlic Butter Mixture:
Transfer the herb mixture to a mixing bowl.
Combine with room temperature butter until thoroughly mixed.
Stuff and Prepare Turkey:
Carefully stuff the garlic butter mixture under the turkey skin and inside the turkey.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
Roasting:
Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan.
Pour one cup of white wine or chicken stock into the pan to provide moisture.
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast.
Roast:
Roast the turkey at 325°F for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest and Serve:
Cover the roasted turkey breast with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Once rested, carve the turkey and enjoy the tender, flavorful meat.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 400
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 640mg
Total Carbohydrates: 2g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 52g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Conclusion:
This Garlic and Herb Roasted Turkey Breast is the perfect dish to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience. With a combination of savory herbs and garlic butter, the turkey breast is guaranteed to be tender and full of flavor. Happy cooking from Kelvin’s Kitchen!