Cooking a moist and flavorful boneless skinless turkey breast may seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite easy with some simple tips! In this article, I’ll walk you through the full process of preparing a perfect turkey breast, from thawing to roasting
Selecting and Preparing the Turkey Breast
When purchasing a boneless skinless turkey breast, allow about 1 pound per person. For optimal flavor and texture, choose an enhanced turkey breast that has been injected with a salt solution.
Make sure to thaw the turkey completely before cooking. The best method is to place it in the refrigerator 1-2 days before cooking. Once thawed remove the turkey from packaging and pat dry with paper towels.
Seasoning the Turkey Breast
Proper seasoning is key for delicious flavor. Make a compound butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme and sage, salt, and pepper. Generously coat the entire surface of the turkey breast with the seasoned butter. The butter keeps the breast moist and infuses tons of flavor.
Roasting the Turkey Breast
- Oven Temperature: Roast at 325°F to prevent overcooking and drying out the lean turkey meat.
- Roasting Vessel: Use a shallow roasting pan or baking dish so the butter can pool around the breast.
- Cook Time: Calculate 15-20 minutes per pound, so a 3 lb breast takes 45-60 minutes.
- Internal Temperature: Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to test.
- Resting: Let the cooked breast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
Making Turkey Gravy
Don’t discard the aromatic pan drippings after roasting your turkey! Use them to make a simple yet delicious turkey gravy.
- Add 2 cups chicken broth to the roasting pan, whisking to dissolve the browned flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
- For thickness, make a slurry by mixing 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water then add to the gravy. Simmer until thickened.
- Finish with parsley, sage, thyme, salt and pepper for an easy, homemade gravy!
Serving Suggestions
Slice the rested turkey breast and serve it alongside classic Thanksgiving favorites:
- Fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Bread stuffing or cornbread dressing
- Green bean casserole
- Cranberry sauce
- Warm turkey gravy
Leftover sliced turkey is also fantastic for sandwiches, salads, casseroles and more! With these simple tips, you can roast a tasty boneless skinless turkey breast that will be moist, full of flavor and sure to impress.
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FAQ
How long to cook Butterball boneless skinless turkey breast?
Should a turkey breast be cooked covered or uncovered?
Is it better to cook a turkey breast at 325 or 350?
What temperature should a boneless turkey breast be cooked to?
How do you cook a boneless turkey breast?
While the oven is heating up, take the skinless boneless turkey breast and pat it dry with a paper towel. This helps remove any excess moisture, allowing for better browning and flavor absorption. Once dry, place the turkey breast on a cutting board and season it generously with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you prefer.
How to cook a turkey breast in the oven?
2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (160C). 3. Prepare the breast. Place turkey breast with skin side up into a roasting pan. Sprinkle seasonings, toss chopped vegetables around the breast, and top with butter and olive oil. Then pour orange juice around the breast. 4. Next, transfer it to the center rack in the oven.
How do you cook a boneless turkey breast in a cast iron skillet?
Rub meat with olive oil and spices. Sear it on all sides until golden. Preheat the oven to 325°F/160°C. Roast: Transfer the cast-iron skillet to the oven and roast the boneless skinless turkey breast for about 50 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the breast reads 160°F/71°C.
How long do you cook a turkey breast at 325 degrees?
Place the coated turkey breast in a shallow casserole dish or baking dish and roast at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 90 minutes, or until an instant read thermometer inserted into the deepest part of the breast reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 Celsius). Remove the turkey breast from the oven and cover with aluminum foil (leave it in the pan).