Deliciously Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast for a Perfect Dinner
Roasting a boneless turkey breast has become one of my favorite go-to meals, especially during busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. This recipe delivers a succulent, flavorful turkey that’s both simple to prepare and fabulous to enjoy. With a golden, crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat, this dish is ideal for those who want a hearty meal without the hassle of cooking a whole turkey. Plus, it’s infinitely versatile, making it perfect for everything from cozy dinners to elegant holiday feasts.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are numerous reasons to whip up this roasted boneless turkey breast recipe. Firstly, it’s quick and incredibly easy, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few easily accessible ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that even picky eaters will adore. Whether it’s a relaxed weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for special occasions, this recipe shines.
“Best turkey breast I’ve ever made! So juicy and flavorful—my family was impressed!”
Preparing Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warm-up is crucial to ensure even cooking. Next, let the turkey breast sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to achieve the best texture. After this, pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. It’s essential to remove excess moisture for a crispy finish. Cover the turkey in the oven for the first part of roasting, about 40-50 minutes, which allows it to cook through properly. Then, uncover it and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until the skin turns golden brown.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for a lip-smacking roasted boneless turkey breast:
- 2.5–3 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt (sea salt or 1½ tsp kosher salt)
- ½ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, but amazing)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or rosemary, chopped (for garnish)
- ½ cup chicken or turkey broth (for the pan)
Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices; thyme can easily be swapped for rosemary or sage, depending on your preference.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Let the turkey breast sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking.
- Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the turkey, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and optional smoked paprika.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom.
- Cover the pan with foil and roast for 40–50 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the turkey is golden brown.
Best ways to enjoy it
This roasted boneless turkey breast can be presented beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, add cranberry sauce and stuffing.
Storage and reheating tips
Once your turkey has cooled, slice any leftovers and store them in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing the slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it in the oven or microwave to maintain tenderness.
Helpful cooking tips
For optimal flavor, give the turkey a rubdown with seasonings the night before, allowing the flavors to permeate overnight. Don’t forget to ensure your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. A meat thermometer is an excellent investment for consistent results.
Creative twists
You can elevate this dish with various flavor twists! Try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or swapping the herbs based on what you have—rosemary, sage, and even Italian seasoning work wonderfully. Consider stuffing the turkey breast with a mixture of spinach and feta for a Mediterranean flair!
Your questions answered
-
How long does it take to cook a boneless turkey breast?
Cooking time usually ranges from 55 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and the oven, but always check the internal temperature. -
Can I use frozen turkey breast?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before cooking, for even cooking. -
What’s the best way to reheat leftover turkey?
The best way is to slice it and reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through. This helps keep it juicy!
This roasted boneless turkey breast recipe will have you feeling like a culinary genius, combining simplicity with wow-factor. It’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and let the deliciousness speak for itself!
Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast
Ingredients
Turkey Ingredients
- 2.5–3 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt sea salt or 1½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly cracked
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh
- ½ tsp smoked paprika optional, but amazing
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or rosemary, chopped for garnish
- ½ cup chicken or turkey broth for the pan
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Let the turkey breast sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking.
- Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the turkey, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and optional smoked paprika.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom.
Roasting
- Cover the pan with foil and roast for 40–50 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the turkey is golden brown.
