Cooking a juicy and flavorful half turkey breast may seem intimidating but it’s actually quite easy with the right techniques. Whether you’re preparing Thanksgiving dinner for a smaller gathering or want an easy weeknight meal, learning how to properly prepare half turkey breast ensures delicious results every time. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to cook moist tender half turkey breast with crisp, golden skin.
Selecting and Preparing Half Turkey Breast
When buying half turkey breast, look for one that is about 2 to 3 pounds to feed 3 to 4 people. You can find bone-in, skin-on half turkey breasts at most grocery stores, usually in the poultry section. Make sure the skin is intact, not torn, and the meat looks plump and pink. For the best flavor and texture, go for a high-quality, free-range or organic turkey breast when possible.
Plan to cook the half turkey breast the day you bring it home for maximum freshness Keep it stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook, Take the turkey out of the fridge about 30 minutes before roasting so it can come closer to room temperature This helps it cook more evenly,
Before cooking, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Having it as dry as possible helps promote crispy browned skin. Additionally, many recipes instruct you to loosen the skin from the meat. Slide your fingers gently underneath the skin to detach it from the flesh. This allows seasonings to really get underneath and flavor the meat.
Seasoning a Half Turkey Breast
Seasoning is key forflavorful roast turkey. Herb-infused butter is a simple way to add lots of flavor.
Make a compound butter by blending softened butter will fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley. You can also add minced garlic, lemon zest, shallots, and dried spices
Spread a portion of the herb butter underneath the loosened turkey skin to really permeate the meat with flavor. Rub additional herb butter over the outside of the skin. As the turkey roasts, the butter continually bastes the meat, keeping it super moist and adding flavor.
For even more flavor, try brining the turkey breast before roasting. A brine is a saltwater solution that infuses moisture and seasoning into the meat. Dissolve salt and sugar in water with lots of aromatics like garlic, peppercorns, citrus, and herbs. Submerge the turkey in the brine for 4-6 hours before roasting for the juiciest results.
How to Roast Half Turkey Breast
Roasting half turkey breast uses both high heat and low heat to achieve perfect doneness. Start by preheating your oven to around 425°F. Place the seasoned turkey breast skin-side up in a roasting pan or baking dish.
Roast at a high temperature for the first 20 minutes. This initial blast of heat crisps up and browns the skin beautifully. After that, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue roasting until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F. Plan on roasting for approximately 20 minutes per pound.
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the temperature and prevent overcooking. Let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to reabsorb back into the meat. Carve across the grain for tender, juicy slices of turkey!
Cooking Times for Half Turkey Breast
The exact roasting time depends on a few factors like the size of your turkey breast, oven variances, and whether or not it was brined or frozen. Here are some general timelines:
- 2 pound raw turkey breast: About 50 minutes total time, plus resting
- 3 pound raw turkey breast: About 1 hour 20 minutes total time, plus resting
- Brined turkey breast: Add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time
- Frozen turkey breast: Add 15-20 minutes more cooking time
These timelines assume starting at a high temperature to brown the skin, then reducing to 350°F until 165°F internal temp. Rely on a meat thermometer for doneness, not just cook times.
Tricks for Extra Crispy Skin
Achieving crispy roasted turkey skin is easy with a few simple tricks:
- Pat the skin dry before roasting
- Loosen the skin from the flesh so fat can render out
- Roast at high heat (425°F) for the first 20 minutes
- Brush skin with oil or butter several times when roasting
- Prop turkey up on vegetables to expose more skin to hot air
- Crank up the heat at end if skin isn’t browned enough
Letting Turkey Breast Rest
Never skip the resting time after roasting turkey breast! Resting allows juices to reabsorb back into the meat for moister slices. The internal temperature also continues rising 5-10°F during resting.
After roasting, transfer the entire turkey pan to a wire rack or plate. Loosely cover with foil and let rest 10-15 minutes before carving. The meat will relax and the juices redistribute evenly.
Carving Half Turkey Breast
To serve up perfect slices of turkey, follow these steps:
- Transfer roasted turkey to a cutting board, breast-side up
- Remove any trussing or twine
- Slice the meat straight down against the grain into strips
- Cut the strips crosswise into thick slices
- Arrange slices on a platter with the crispy skin showing
Be sure to use a sharp carving or chef’s knife to easily cut neat slices. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers for the most tender bite.
Serving Suggestions
A beautifully cooked half turkey breast deserves some delicious accompaniments like:
- Roasted vegetables – Brussel sprouts, carrots, potatoes
- Stuffing or dressing – Cornbread, sausage, pecan
- Homemade gravy and cranberry sauce
- Fresh herbs, fruit, and edible flowers
- Dinner rolls – Parker house, crescent, biscuits
Having the right side dishes elevates the meal for a spectacular spread. And don’t forget the leftovers! Turn extra turkey breast into sandwiches, casseroles, soups and more.
Common Half Turkey Breast FAQs
How long does it take to cook a 2 pound turkey breast?
A 2 pound bone-in, skin-on turkey breast takes about 50 minutes to cook in a 425°F oven. Roast at high heat for 20 minutes, then reduce to 350°F for about 30 more minutes until 165°F.
Can I roast a frozen half turkey breast?
Yes, it’s fine to roast a frozen turkey breast. Just be sure to add about 15-20 extra minutes to the estimated cooking time. Check the internal temp with a meat thermometer for doneness.
What’s the best way to thaw a frozen turkey breast?
Thaw frozen turkey breast in the refrigerator, allowing 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds. For quicker thawing, place sealed turkey in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes until thawed.
Should I brine a turkey breast?
Brining helps keep turkey breast juicy and enhances the flavor. Dissolve salt and sugar in water, then submerge the turkey breast for 4-6 hours before roasting. Rinse, pat dry, then roast as usual.
What’s the best way to get crispy turkey skin?
Crispy roasted skin starts with patting turkey dry and loosening the skin. Roast at 425°F for the first 20 minutes, then baste with oil or butter. Increase heat at end to crisp up, if needed.
Cooking a Perfect Half Turkey Breast
Preparing a delicious roast half turkey breast for smaller holiday meals or dinners is simple with these helpful tips. Selecting a high quality breast, brining, seasoning under the skin, and following the proper roasting method guarantees you’ll achieve a golden, juicy turkey with crispy skin every time. Master this basic skill to enjoy more easy, impressive turkey dinners all year round.
