Golden Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook: 2 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

This Golden Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast is your ticket to a show-stopping main dish with minimal fuss. Perfect for holidays or a special weekend dinner, it brings together classic flavors with a citrusy twist that brightens the whole meal.

Ingredients for Golden Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast

Turkey breast: The star of the show, offering lean meat that's ideal for roasting. Olive oil helps the herbs stick and adds richness. Garlic brings depth and warmth to the marinade. Rosemary, thyme, and sage are the classic trio of herbs for poultry, adding earthy, aromatic notes. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors. Lemon zest and juice provide a bright, zesty contrast. Chicken broth keeps the turkey moist during roasting.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispy skin, pat the turkey dry again right before applying the marinade.
  • Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked turkey every time.
  • If you like a stronger lemon flavor, add more zest or a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This turkey pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and a simple green beans sautéed in garlic and olive oil. A cranberry sauce or a light apple cider gravy can also add a seasonal touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs. Use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I use this recipe for a whole turkey?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time based on the weight of the turkey. A whole turkey generally requires more time.

Golden Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it's warming up, take a moment to pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better. Place it on a roasting pan, and let it sit while you prepare the marinade.

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until everything is well combined. Now, rub this aromatic mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.

Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the turkey moist while it cooks. Place the pan in your preheated oven and roast the turkey for about 1.5 to 2 hours. It's a good idea to baste the turkey with the pan juices every 30 minutes to enhance moisture and flavor.

Once the turkey's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), it's time to take it out. Let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple ingredients with maximum flavor impact.
  • The lemon zest and juice add a refreshing touch.
  • Herb crust creates a delightful aroma and texture.
  • Roasting keeps the turkey juicy and tender.
  • Perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 whole turkey breast (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 cup chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels and place it on a roasting pan.
3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice to create a marinade.
4. Rub the marinade evenly over the turkey breast, ensuring it is well coated.
5. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes for added moisture and flavor.
8. Once cooked, remove from oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.
9. Slice and serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!