How to Cook a Frozen Turkey Breast for a Delicious Meal

Cooking a frozen turkey breast may seem daunting, but it’s actually a simple process that results in a delicious, juicy entree. With some key tips on thawing, preparation, and cooking, you can make this freezer staple shine at your next meal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to cook frozen turkey breast like a pro.

Why Cook Frozen Turkey Breast?

Cooking frozen turkey breast offers several benefits

• Convenience – You can cook turkey straight from the freezer without needing to thaw it first. This saves time when you’re in a pinch.

• Cost savings – Individual turkey breasts often cost less than a whole turkey. Plus there’s less waste since you cook only what you need.

• Portion control – A turkey breast provides the perfect amount for smaller groups rather than cooking a large whole bird,

• Flavor – Turkey breast is lean and tender, making it a tasty and healthy main course option.

Thawing Frozen Turkey Breast

While it’s possible to cook a frozen turkey breast straight from the freezer, thawing first helps ensure even cooking. Here are two easy thawing methods:

• Refrigerator thawing: Place the turkey in the refrigerator 24 hours for every 4-5 lbs. Use a tray to catch any drips.

• Cold water thawing: Submerge the turkey (in its packaging) in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Approximate thawing time is 30 minutes per lb.

Once thawed, the turkey is ready for prep and cooking.

Seasoning and Preparing Turkey Breast

Follow these simple steps before cooking your thawed turkey breast:

• Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and remove any giblets or neck from the cavity.

• Apply a light coat of oil or melted butter to the skin. This helps the turkey brown.

• Season the turkey liberally with salt, pepper, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, and spices like garlic powder.

• For extra flavor, try inserting slices of lemon or onion inside the breast cavity.

• Let the seasoned turkey sit for 30 minutes before cooking so the flavors penetrate into the meat.

How to Cook a Frozen Turkey Breast

Roasting is the most popular cooking method, but you can also braise or grill a turkey breast.

Oven Roasting

Roasting uses dry ambient heat to cook the turkey breast evenly.

• Preheat oven to 325°F.

• Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan to allow air circulation.

• Cook 20 minutes per lb, until the thickest part of breast reaches 165°F.

• Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing for juicier meat.

Braising

Braising cooks the turkey breast in a small amount of liquid like broth, wine or juice.

• Brown the seasoned turkey breast in a skillet with oil.

• Add 1 cup of broth or liquid to the skillet.

• Simmer gently over low heat for about 1 hour until turkey is cooked through.

Grilling

Get delicious charred flavor by grilling over direct medium heat.

• Oil the grill grates and preheat grill to medium (about 350°F).

• Grill turkey breast over direct heat for 6-8 minutes per side with the lid closed.

• Move to indirect heat if flare-ups occur or turkey browns too quickly.

Cooking Times for Frozen Turkey Breast

A frozen turkey breast can take almost twice as long to cook as a thawed one. Here are some general guidelines:

• 1-3 lbs: 50-75 minutes
• 3-5 lbs: 75 minutes to 2 hours
• 5-7 lbs: 2 to 2.5 hours

Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the turkey has reached 165°F at its thickest section before removing it from the oven or grill. Let it rest at least 10 minutes before carving.

Serving Delicious Turkey Breast

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving cooked turkey breast! Slice it thick and serve it:

• On a salad with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado and vinaigrette
• In a sandwich with cranberry sauce, lettuce and mayo
• Diced in chili or soup for extra protein
• Over rice pilaf or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal
• On top of a salad with romaine and Caesar dressing
• In tacos with salsa, lettuce and cheese

Any leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days tightly wrapped. Enjoy the turkey breast in casseroles, sandwiches, and salads.

Key Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Results

Follow these simple tricks to get the best results when cooking frozen turkey breast:

• Always thaw breasts completely before cooking for even cooking.

• Pat turkey dry before seasoning and oiling the skin foroptimal crisping.

• Cook low and slow, at 325°F, especially from frozen state.

• Brine or marinate the breast in saltwater, broth or sauce for extra moistness.

• Use a meat thermometer to accurately determine doneness – 165°F for food safety.

• Let the cooked breast rest at least 10 minutes before slicing for redistribution of juices.

• Add liquid like broth or wine when braising or roasting to help keep the meat moist.

With the right techniques, cooking frozen turkey breast can be simple and result in juicy, delicious meat. Follow this guide for thawing, preparing, seasoning, and cooking turkey breast just right. Soon you’ll be serving up tender, flavorful turkey entrees and leftovers with confidence.