This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast is a juicy and flavorful centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. It’s coated with aromatic herbs that give it a wonderful smell and taste!
Carving into this turkey is always a joyful moment, and the best part? The leftovers make a fantastic sandwich! Who can resist a good turkey sandwich after the holiday feast? 🥪
I love how simple it is to make. Just rub those herbs on the turkey, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the delightful smell while it bakes. Perfect for a stress-free holiday!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: A bone-in, skin-on turkey breast is great for moisture and flavor. If you prefer, boneless turkey breast can be used, but it may cook faster, so keep an eye on it.
Olive Oil or Butter: Both options work well. I often choose olive oil for a lighter flavor, but butter adds a nice richness. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil!
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and sage are perfect together. If you can’t get fresh herbs, use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for each tablespoon of fresh. It won’t have the same depth, but it’s a good alternative!
Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, you might want to add more cloves for an extra kick. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch (1/2 teaspoon for each clove).
Chicken Broth: For more flavor, homemade stock is best, but store-bought works well too. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can be substituted.
How Do You Get the Skin Extra Crispy?
Achieving crispy skin is all about moisture control before and during cooking. Here are some tips that have worked for me:
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This removes moisture that would steam the skin.
- Rub the herb mixture under the skin, which helps flavor the meat and makes the skin crispier.
- Roast at a higher temperature at the end (around 425°F) for the last 15 minutes for even crisper skin.
- Basting occasionally keeps the skin flavorful, but avoid too much liquid, which can make it soggy.
With these tips and tricks, you’re all set to make a delicious Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast for your Christmas dinner! Enjoy!
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast for Christmas Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 3 to 4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or turkey stock (for the roasting pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 to 1 1/4 hours to roast. Don’t forget to let it rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking, which gives you time to set the table and prepare your sides!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A good, hot oven is key for crispy skin!
2. Prepare the Turkey:
Use paper towels to pat the turkey breast dry. This helps achieve that delicious crispy skin you want. Remove any giblets from the cavity if necessary.
3. Mix the Herb Paste:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil or melted butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. This fragrant paste will make the turkey incredibly flavorful!
4. Coat the Turkey:
Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to get it under the skin if you can. This will infuse the meat with amazing flavors!
5. Set Up for Roasting:
Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. This allows heat to circulate around the turkey for even cooking. Pour the chicken broth or turkey stock into the bottom of the pan to keep the meat moist during roasting.
6. Roast:
Put the turkey in your preheated oven and roast for about 1 to 1 1/4 hours. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the thickest part of the breast should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the Turkey:
Halfway through roasting, baste the turkey breast with the pan juices to enhance flavor and moisture. Just a spoonful or two will do!
8. Rest the Turkey:
When the turkey breast reaches the right temperature, carefully remove it from the oven. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This cooling time lets the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist when sliced.
9. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the turkey breast and arrange the pieces on a serving platter. Garnish with extra rosemary sprigs for a lovely presentation. Pair it with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy this festive and flavorful centerpiece at your Christmas dinner table! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use a Boneless Turkey Breast Instead?
Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast! Just keep in mind that it may cook faster, so start checking the internal temperature around the 50-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze sliced turkey for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Substitute Dried Herbs for Fresh?
Absolutely! If using dried herbs, you’ll need about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb for every tablespoon of fresh. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so adjust to your taste.
What Can I Serve With Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast?
This turkey breast pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. A fresh salad can also complement the meal beautifully!
