How to Cook a Delicious Half Turkey Breast

Cooking a juicy and flavorful half turkey breast may seem daunting, but it’s actually quite easy with the right techniques Here is a step-by-step guide to roasting a perfect half turkey breast

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in, skin-on half turkey breast (2-3 lbs)
• Herb butter:
  • 1⁄2 cup softened butter
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp each thyme, rosemary, sage, parsley, basil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
• Cooking spray

Steps

1. Prep the turkey breast Pat the turkey dry and loosen the skin from the breast meat This allows the seasoning to really get underneath and flavor the meat,

2. Make herb butter. Mix the softened butter with the olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper until fully incorporated. It will look like a green, herby guacamole.

3. Coat the turkey. Spread half of the herb butter evenly under the loosened skin directly on the breast meat. Spread the remaining herb butter on top of the skin.

4. Roast at high heat. Place the coated turkey breast skin-side up in a roasting pan coated with cooking spray. Roast at 450°F for 15-20 minutes until the skin starts to brown.

5. Finish roasting. Lower heat to 350°F and continue roasting for about 1 hour 10 minutes more, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

6. Rest and serve. Remove turkey from oven, tent with foil, and let rest 10 minutes until temperature reaches 165°F. Slice and serve warm.

Tips

• For even cooking, choose a half turkey breast of consistent thickness.
• Use an instant-read thermometer for perfectly cooked turkey every time.
• Letting the roasted turkey rest allows juices to redistribute for moist, tender meat.
• Add veggies like carrots, potatoes, and onions to the roasting pan for an easy side dish.
• Leftovers make excellent sandwiches, salads, casseroles, and soups!

Roasting a half turkey breast is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Thanksgiving or Christmas flavors any time of year. The simple herb butter keeps the lean meat deliciously moist and full of flavor. With proper roasting and resting, you’ll gettender, juicy meat topped with crispy browned skin everyone will love.

Try this easy roasted half turkey breast recipe for your next special occasion dinner or Sunday supper. Its minimal prep and hands-off roasting method frees up your time to focus on sides and dessert. Let your oven do the work while you relax and enjoy time with friends and family. With these helpful tips, you can roast turkey like a pro!