Description
Citrus Herb Turkey Breast: Juicy turkey breast marinated in zesty citrus and aromatic herbs. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for impressing a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bone-in turkey breast (4–5 pounds/1.8–2.3 kg)
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Remove the Citrus Herb Turkey Breast from the refrigerator about 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels – this helps achieve that beautiful golden skin we’re aiming for. Place the turkey breast skin-side up in a roasting pan fitted with a rack. The rack elevates the turkey, allowing heat to circulate and the skin to crisp evenly.
- Step 2: Create the Citrus Herb Butter In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage, orange zest, lemon zest, lime zest, 1 tablespoon orange juice, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon lime juice. Add the salt and pepper, then mix until thoroughly combined. This vibrant, aromatic mixture will be your flavor powerhouse. The softened butter should easily incorporate all those fantastic herbs and citrus elements.
- Step 3: Apply the Herb Butter Here’s where the magic happens! Carefully loosen the skin from the turkey breast by sliding your fingers between the skin and meat, creating a pocket. Gently work your way around without tearing the skin. Take about two-thirds of your prepared citrus herb butter and spread it evenly under the skin, directly against the meat. Massage the outside of the skin to distribute the butter evenly. Rub the remaining butter mixture over the outside of the turkey breast.
- Step 4: Add Liquid and Roast Pour the chicken broth and the remaining citrus juices into the bottom of the roasting pan. This creates a flavorful base for basting and eventually for an incredible sauce. Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C). For a 4-5 pound breast, this typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- Step 5: Baste and Rest Baste your Citrus Herb Turkey Breast with the pan juices every 30 minutes during cooking. This keeps the skin moist and adds another layer of flavor. Once done, transfer the turkey to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period is non-negotiable – it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 8 oz)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 145mg