Where to Buy Whole Turkey Breast: A Guide to Sourcing Delicious Poultry

A succulent roasted whole turkey breast makes for an elegant yet easy meal, whether for a small gathering or to feed a crowd. With its combination of white and dark meat, turkey breast offers the best of both worlds – juicy, tender and full of flavor. If you’re looking to buy a premium whole turkey breast, here are some tips on where to find the very best available.

Grocery Store Options

Many grocery stores stock whole turkey breasts, especially around the holidays. Here are some things to look for:

• Natural or Organic – These have been raised without antibiotics or hormones. Organic also indicates the birds were fed organic, non-GMO feed.

• Free Range or Pasture Raised – This indicates the turkeys were able to roam freely outdoors

• Kosher or Halal – These have been processed according to Jewish or Muslim dietary traditions

• Hormone-free – Confirms no artificial hormones were administered to the birds

• Minimally processed – Avoid turkey breasts with lengthy ingredients lists or lots of preservatives.

Some well-known brands offering high-quality whole turkey breasts are Bell & Evans, Whole Foods 365 Organic, Trader Joe’s and Butterball Organic. Prices range from $2-$4 per pound.

Specialty Butcher Shops

For premium quality whole turkey breasts, check your local specialty butcher shop. Reputable butchers source top poultry from small family farms. Expect to pay $4-$8 per pound. Benefits include:

• Access to heritage breed turkeys

• Customization – get exactly the size you need

• Butcher expertise on preparation and cooking

• Support for local agriculture and food artisans

Ask your butcher questions about the source farm, diet, antibiotic use, processing, and aging. This ensures you get the best tasting artisanal turkey breast.

Online Mail Order Companies

For ultimate selection, order directly from a dedicated mail order meat company. Top purveyors like D’Artagnan and Porter Road source premium turkeys from heritage breeds that are humanely raised on small farms. Prices range from $9-$15 per pound. Benefits include:

• Hormone and antibiotic-free poultry

• Unique heritage breeds unavailable elsewhere

• Selection of sizes from petite to jumbo

• Hand trimmed and dry aged for tenderness

• Vacuum sealed portions for convenience

• Easy online ordering and shipping to your doorstep

• Product guides to help you pick the right turkey breast

Some of the rarest bird breeds to look for are Narragansett, Bourbon Red, Standard Bronze, and Black Spanish turkeys. Their dark meat is richer and more succulent than commercial varieties.

Direct From a Local Farm

For the ultimate farm-to-table experience, buy directly from a local turkey ranch. Check farmers markets, CSAs, or visit family farms in your area. Benefits include:

• Knowing exactly where and how your turkey was raised

• Supporting local family agriculture

• Farm fresh poultry at peak deliciousness

• Custom processing for whole breasts, parts etc.

• Opportunities to tour the farm

Look for farmers practicing sustainable techniques like rotational grazing. Pasture raised heritage breed turkeys will have the richest flavor. Expect to pay $6-$12 per pound direct from family farms.

How Much To Buy?

A good rule of thumb when buying whole turkey breast is 1 pound per person, or 1.5 pounds if you want ample leftovers. An 8-10 pound turkey breast feeds 8-10 people generously.

For a smaller gathering of 4-6 people, a 3-5 pound breast is ideal. Petite turkey breasts under 3 pounds are perfect for 1-3 portions.

Preparing and Cooking Your Turkey Breast

Rinse turkey breasts and pat dry before seasoning or marinating. Roast uncovered at 325°F, allowing 15-18 minutes per pound. Test for doneness by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, making sure it reaches 165°F.

Let rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to reabsorb for maximum moisture and flavor. Enjoy your farm fresh whole turkey breast as the star of your holiday table!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a whole turkey and a whole turkey breast?

A whole turkey is the entire bird including both white and dark meat. A whole turkey breast is just the breast portion without wings, thighs, drumsticks, etc.

Is a whole turkey breast enough to feed my family?

Yes, plan on about 1 pound of turkey breast per person, or 1.5 pounds per person if you want ample leftovers. An 8-10 pound whole breast will feed 8-10.

Should I brine or marinate a whole turkey breast?

Brining keeps the breast meat moist, while a marinade adds flavor. For best results, brine if the breast is over 5 pounds, and marinate smaller breasts.

What’s the best way to cook a whole turkey breast?

Roasting is ideal, at 325°F for 15-18 minutes per pound. Test it’s done by inserting a meat thermometer, making sure it reaches 165°F. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

Can I freeze a whole raw turkey breast?

Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep up to a year in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator 1 day per 5 pounds before cooking.