How to Cook a Boneless Turkey Breast in a Bag: A Simple Guide for Juicy and Flavorful White Meat

Cooking a boneless turkey breast can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be with the right techniques. Using an oven bag is a foolproof method that keeps the turkey breast incredibly moist, tender and full of flavor. This simple guide will walk you through how to cook a boneless turkey breast in a bag for perfect results every time.

Why Cook Turkey Breast in a Bag?

There are several benefits to cooking turkey breast in a bag:

• Ensures moist and tender meat. The bag seals in all the natural juices and prevents the breast from drying out. This is especially important for lean white meat like turkey breast which dries out easily.

• Intensifies flavor. The bag allows the seasonings and aromatics to fully permeate the meat.

• Easy cleanup. The bag contains all the drippings neatly so there’s minimal mess. Just toss the bag after cooking.

• Foolproof method, Turkey breast is difficult to overcook in a bag It turns out perfect every time

• Oven space saver. You can cook the turkey breast alongside side dishes since it’s contained.

Tips for Choosing a Turkey Breast

• Go for boneless over bone-in. Boneless breasts cook more evenly since there is no bone to obstruct heat. The total cook time is also shorter without a bone.

• Estimate 1/3 to 1/2 pound per person. A 3-4 lb boneless breast serves 6-8 people. Adjust the size up or down based on your guest count.

• Make sure it’s fully thawed if frozen. Thaw frozen turkey breast in the fridge for 24 hours per pound. A faster method is submerging it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.

• Pick an enhanced vs. natural breast based on preference. Enhanced breasts contain an added salt solution for more flavor and moisture. Natural breasts contain no additives.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect oven-roasted turkey breast every time.

Prep the Turkey Breast

1. Remove turkey breast from packaging. Rinse under cold water and pat dry completely with paper towels.

2. Generously season all over with salt, pepper and any additional dried herbs or spices. Rub the seasonings into the meat.

3. If desired, loosen the skin from the breast meat and rub softened butter underneath. This keeps the white meat extra moist and adds flavor.

Cook in the Oven Bag

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Shake flour in a large oven bag to coat the inside. This prevents sticking and helps make gravy later.

2. Place seasoned turkey breast inside the oven bag. Add any aromatics like onion, carrots, celery or fresh herbs.

3. Tie the oven bag with the nylon tie provided. Make 5-6 slits in the top of the bag with a knife to allow steam to escape.

4. Place the bag in a baking pan. The pan should be larger than the bag to catch any drips.

5. Roast for approx. 1 1/4 hours to 1 1/2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Finish and Serve

1. Carefully open the oven bag and transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board. Cover with foil and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

2. Slice the turkey breast and serve it up! Enjoy this juicy, flavor-packed meat with your favorite holiday sides.

Turkey Breast Cooking Times

While cook times can vary based on the specific oven, turkey size and shape, here are general guidelines for roast times:

• 1-2 lb breast: 45-60 minutes
• 3 lb breast: 1 – 1 1/4 hours
• 4-5 lb breast: 1 1/4 – 1 1/2 hours
• 6-7 lb breast: 1 1/2 – 1 3/4 hours

The best way to test doneness is using a meat thermometer. Turkey breast is safely cooked at 165°F. If undercooked, return to oven until it reaches 165°F internally.

Flavor Variations

One of the best parts of cooking turkey breast in a bag is that it easily absorbs any flavors. Consider rubbing the following ingredient combos under the skin or directly on the meat before cooking:

• Fresh rosemary, sage and thyme + lemon
• Dijon mustard + paprika + garlic
• Pesto sauce + olive oil
• Chili powder + cumin + lime juice + cilantro
• Balsamic vinegar + Italian seasoning

Get creative with herbs, spices, citrus and condiments! The turkey breast will soak up the flavors as it cooks.

Make Delicious Gravy

Don’t throw away the aromatic pan drippings after cooking your turkey breast! Use them to make the easiest and most flavorful gravy:

• Drain juices from oven bag into a saucepan. Let settle so fat separates. Skim off excess fat.

• Whisk in flour to thicken the juices. Slowly whisk in chicken or turkey stock until desired gravy consistency is reached.

• Season with salt, pepper and any other desired seasonings.

• Simmer gravy over low heat 10-15 minutes until nicely thickened. Serve drizzled over your turkey breast slices.

Expert Tips for Moist Turkey Breast

• Always let the cooked breast rest at least 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

• Use a meat thermometer to accurately determine doneness rather than relying on cook times alone.

• Reduce oven temperature 25 degrees if breast starts browning too quickly on the outside before fully cooking through.

• Add vegetables, broth or water to the oven bag which will create steam to help keep the breast extra moist.

• Rubbing butter or oil under the skin is a easy way to guarantee tender, juicy meat.

• Slice the breast across the grain after cooking for most tender texture.

Common FAQs

What size oven bag do I need?

Choose an extra large size like Reynolds Turkey Size bags which are big enough to accommodate breasts up to 16 pounds.

Can I stuff an oven bag?

Stuffing is not recommended as it can interfere with even cooking. However, aromatics like onion and herbs can be placed inside.

Is it safe to cook the turkey breast from frozen?

Always thaw turkey breast fully in the refrigerator before cooking for food safety.

What if my breast is too big for one oven bag?

For larger breasts over 6-7 lbs, use two oven bags. Divide breast between both bags and overlap them in the pan.

What temperature should I cook the breast to?

Cook until it registers 165°F on a meat thermometer for safe consumption.

The Takeaway

Cooking boneless turkey breast in an oven bag is a simple, foolproof method for juicy, flavorful white meat. Prepare the breast, add seasonings, seal in the bag and roast until 165°F. Let rest before slicing and serve this lean protein alongside your favorite holiday trimmings. With these helpful tips, you’ll have moist and delicious turkey breast for any occasion.