Cooking the perfect juicy, tender turkey breast may seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be with the right techniques and timing With a few simple tips, you can have a beautifully cooked turkey breast ready for your holiday meal or weeknight dinner
Choosing and Preparing The Turkey Breast
When selecting a turkey breast at the grocery store, allow about 1 pound of turkey per person you are serving. For optimal juiciness, choose a breast with the skin still attached and the bones left in. Bone-in turkey breasts tend to be more flavorful and moist than boneless options.
Before cooking, remove the turkey breast from any packaging and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to cook more evenly.
Calculating Cook Time
The most important factor in achieving a perfectly cooked turkey breast is allowing enough time for it to cook through without drying out. A good rule of thumb is to calculate 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F.
For example, a 5 pound turkey breast will need 75-100 minutes total cooking time. The exact time will depend on the shape and thickness of each particular breast.
Here are estimated cooking times for various turkey breast sizes:
- 4-6 pounds: 60-120 minutes
- 6-8 pounds: 90-160 minutes
- 8-10 pounds: 120-200 minutes
You’ll want to use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness rather than relying solely on cook times
Monitoring Temperature
The best way to ensure your turkey breast is fully cooked but still tender and juicy is to monitor the internal temperature as it roasts. Insert an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding any bones.
- 130°F – breast is almost done, time to start checking more frequently
- 160°F – breast is perfectly cooked with a slight pink center
- 165°F – breast is fully cooked through
The temperature will continue rising slightly even after the turkey is removed from the oven. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.
Roasting Methods
There are a few different roasting methods that will all result in a juicy, delicious turkey breast:
Oven: The standard oven roasting method works great. Use a roasting pan fitted with a V-shaped roasting rack to allow air flow on all sides. Cook at 325°F, basting every 30 minutes with the pan drippings.
Grilling: For added flavor, try indirect grilling the turkey breast over medium heat, rotating periodically. Use wood chips to infuse smoke. Grill until the internal temp reaches 160°F.
Smoking: Smoking is a wonderful way to cook a turkey breast if you have a smoker. Cook at 225-250°F using your favorite wood chips until the breast reaches an internal temp of 165°F.
Sous Vide: For the ultimate in tender, juicy results, cook the turkey breast via sous vide by sealing it in a bag and submerging in 165°F water for 1-4 hours depending on thickness. Finish under the broiler.
Ensuring Juiciness
Juiciness comes down to controlling temperature and avoiding overcooking. Follow these tips:
- Brine the breast in saltwater overnight before cooking
- Rub butter under the skin before roasting
- Cook at a low temperature (325°F)
- Baste frequently with pan drippings
- Cook to 160-165°F internal temperature
- Allow the breast to rest before slicing into it
With the right timing and temperature control, you can have a perfect juicy turkey breast ready in time for Thanksgiving or any special meal. Monitor the temp closely, and it will turn out moist and delicious every time.
Time Chart For Cooking A Turkey Breast
| Turkey Breast Weight | Estimated Total Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 4-6 lbs | 1-2 hours |
| 6-8 lbs | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| 8-10 lbs | 2-3 hours |
| 10-12 lbs | 2.5-4 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you cook a 5 lb turkey breast?
For a 5 pound bone-in turkey breast, allow about 75-100 minutes of cooking time in a 325°F oven. Check the internal temperature after 60 minutes.
What is the minimum internal temperature for turkey?
The USDA recommends cooking turkey to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. For optimum juiciness and tenderness, cook to 160-165°F.
Should you cook turkey breast up or down?
It’s best to start the turkey breast upside down (breast side down) for the first half of cooking. This allows the bottom part to cook evenly. Then flip it over for the second half to brown and crisp the skin.
Do you cook turkey breast covered or uncovered?
Covering the turkey breast with foil for the first half of cooking time will help it cook evenly and retain moisture. Remove foil for the second half so the skin can brown. Baste frequently.
Can you cook a frozen turkey breast?
Yes, a completely frozen or partially thawed turkey breast can absolutely be roasted successfully with a few adjustments. Cook at 325°F and extend the cook time as needed, basting frequently. Check temp early and often.
With a little preparation and care, you can have a perfectly cooked, juicy, tender turkey breast ready for your next meal. Follow these simple tips for success every time.
