This rosemary garlic turkey breast is a tasty and juicy dish you’ll love. The garlic and fragrant rosemary make it smell amazing while it’s cooking!
If you’re like me, the aroma of this turkey makes your mouth water. It’s perfect for family dinners or any special occasion. So, grab a fork and enjoy every juicy bite! 🦃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: Boneless turkey breast is ideal here for even cooking. If you can’t find boneless, skin-on turkey breast works too—just adjust cooking time slightly. Chicken breast is a suitable substitute, but may need less cooking time.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon for this recipe. Just remember, fresh is always best for that strong aromatic kick!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste. Both will keep the turkey juicy, so pick what you prefer.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary brings a lovely fragrance. If it’s not available, try dried rosemary but use only a tablespoon, as it’s more potent. I often double the amount if I’m using fresh—it’s just so good!
Lemon Juice: Optional, but it adds brightness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar can also lift the flavors. Don’t skip this step if you want that extra zing!
How Do I Ensure My Turkey Stays Moist While Roasting?
Keeping your turkey moist is crucial for a juicy result. Here are some tips:
- Pat the turkey dry before seasoning; this helps the skin crisp up.
- Use a roasting pan with a bit of broth or water at the bottom. This keeps moisture in the oven.
- Baste the turkey with its pan juices every 20 minutes. This adds flavor and moisture on the outside.
- Let it rest after cooking! This step is key—resting allows the juices to redistribute for a tender slice.
How to Make Rosemary Garlic Turkey Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless turkey breast
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (for roasting pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 50-60 minutes to roast in the oven. Once done, don’t forget to let the turkey rest for about 10 minutes before slicing, for a total time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy a perfectly cooked turkey!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-preheated oven helps the turkey cook evenly and gives it a nice crispy outside!
2. Make the Flavor Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme (if you’re using it), salt, pepper, and lemon juice. This mixture is what makes the turkey flavorful and delicious!
3. Prepare the Turkey Breast:
Take your turkey breast and pat it dry with paper towels—this helps the mixture stick well. Rub the rosemary garlic mixture all over the turkey breast evenly, making sure to coat every part for full flavor.
4. Place in the Roasting Pan:
Put the turkey breast in a roasting pan or an oven-safe skillet. Pour chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan to keep the meat moist while it cooks. This is a great trick to ensure your turkey stays juicy!
5. Roast the Turkey:
Put the pan in the oven and roast for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and baste the turkey with its juices every 20 minutes. This will help enhance the flavor and ensure it doesn’t dry out. Your turkey is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Slice:
Once the turkey is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is important because it allows the juices to redistribute, making the turkey even more juicy when you cut into it.
7. Garnish and Serve:
After resting, slice the turkey breast into pieces and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides!
This rosemary garlic turkey breast will be savory, juicy, and full of flavor—a perfect recipe for any celebration or a cozy family dinner!
Can I Use a Frozen Turkey Breast?
Yes, you can use a frozen turkey breast, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator beforehand. A good rule of thumb is to allow 24 hours of thawing for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Rosemary?
If fresh rosemary isn’t available, dried rosemary works as a substitute! Use about 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary since it’s more potent. Just crush it a bit to release more flavor before adding it to the mixture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep the turkey moist when reheating, consider adding a splash of broth or water and covering it to steam while heating.
Can I Roast the Turkey at a Higher Temperature?
Yes, you can roast the turkey at a higher temperature like 425°F (220°C) for a shorter time, about 30-40 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking, as this method can dry it out more quickly!