How to Slice a Turkey Breast Perfectly Every Time

Slicing turkey breast can seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think with the right techniques. Whether you are preparing a small Thanksgiving feast or want juicy, thin slices for sandwiches, learning how to properly carve turkey breast ensures you get beautiful, appetizing pieces.

Why Should You Slice Turkey Breast?

There are several advantages to cooking a whole turkey breast instead of a full turkey:

• Smaller portions. A full turkey can be overkill for a small gathering A 4-6 pound turkey breast provides enough meat for 4-6 people without crazy amounts of leftovers.

• Shorter cook time. Turkey breast roasts much faster than a whole turkey, usually 1-2 hours compared to 3-4 for a whole bird.

• More white meat. Turkey breast is 100% lean, juicy white meat, no dark meat or bones.

• Easier to carve. With practice, turkey breast can be sliced into perfect portions with less effort than carving around a whole turkey’s bones.

• Flexible uses. Sliced turkey breast works for everything from plated dinners to sandwiches to salads and more.

Equipment Needed

Carving turkey breast requires just a few simple tools:

• Sharp knife: An 8-10 inch chef’s knife or serrated knife works best. Make sure it’s very sharp.

• Cutting board: Choose a large, sturdy board that won’t slide around.

• Serving platter: Have a rimmed platter or plate ready to arrange the sliced meat.

• Poultry shears: Useful for removing any bones or cartilage.

• Meat fork: Helps hold turkey steady while slicing.

• Boning knife: Optional for removing bones before cooking.

Preparing Turkey Breast for Carving

Proper prep ensures clean, even cuts of meat:

• Remove any strings/ties. Cut off any kitchen twine or netting used to truss the breast.

• Take out bones if desired. For boneless breast, use a boning knife to remove bones before or after cooking.

• Let rest 10-15 minutes. Allowing the breast to rest after roasting keeps juices inside.

• Position breast-side up. Place on a cutting board or rimmed platter, breast facing up.

How to Slice Turkey Breast

Follow these steps for perfectly thin slices:

1. Make a horizontal base cut. Cut through skin just above the thigh. Go deep but not through bone.

2. Slice vertically down. Start at breastbone and cut thin slices straight down to the base cut.

3. Cut diagonal pieces. For fuller slices, cut diagonally across the grain starting at the top.

4. Slice pointy end pieces. Trim off tapered sections and slice crosswise.

5. Cut against the grain. Slice any leftovers across the grain for tenderness.

6. Inspect and remove bones. Check for any bones or cartilage missed; remove with shears or knife.

Carving Tips

Use these expert tips for clean, efficient slicing:

• Cut each slice to your desired thickness, usually 1/4 to 1/2 inch.

• Let sliced meat rest a few minutes before serving to reabsorb juices.

• Place slices evenly on a platter, shingled or fanned out.

• Add any pan juices, gravy, or sauce over or on the side.

• Keep your knife horizontal and let the knife do the work when cutting.

• Use poultry shears to trim off any awkward or uneven areas.

• Always slice across the grain of the meat, not along it.

Common Carving Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls for better turkey breast carving:

• Forgetting to let it rest before carving.

• Failing to cut horizontal base cut first.

• Sawing back and forth with the knife.

• Leaving bones or cartilage in sliced meat.

• Cutting with a dull, worn knife.

• Cutting slices too thick or thin.

• Forgetting to slice against the grain.

• Letting sliced meat sit out too long before serving.

What To Do With Leftover Sliced Turkey Breast

Leftover sliced turkey breast provides almost endless options for creative meals:

• Turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce, lettuce, and stuffing.

• Turkey salad with mayo, celery, and almonds.

• Quesadillas with turkey, peppers, onion, and cheese.

• Turkey tetrazzini with noodles, mushrooms, and sherry.

• Turkey hash with potatoes, spinach, and fried eggs.

• Turkey tacos with avocado, queso fresco, and lime.

• Turkey stir fry with snap peas, bean sprouts, and teriyaki.

• Turkey casserole with rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce.

• Turkey sliders on rolls with pesto mayo and tomatoes.

Get creative! Sliced turkey breast jazzes up pasta, soup, pizza, nachos, omelets, and more.

Master Carving Turkey Breast

With the right tools and techniques, cleanly slicing turkey breast is simple. Follow these tips for tender, juicy white meat slices your guests will rave about. Confidently serve this elegant, lean protein for any occasion from intimate dinners to festive feasts.