When it comes to planning an easy Thanksgiving dinner, simplicity and flavor are key. This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast recipe delivers juicy, tender meat with crispy, golden skin and herbaceous notes in every bite. Perfect for smaller gatherings or anyone who wants all the flavor of Thanksgiving without the stress of cooking a whole bird.
Why This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast Is Perfect for Your Easy Thanksgiving Dinner
Preparing a whole turkey can be intimidating, especially if you’re cooking for a smaller crowd. That’s why this Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast is a game-changer. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and makes a beautiful centerpiece for any easy Thanksgiving dinner spread. Whether you’re a first-time Thanksgiving host or a seasoned home cook, this foolproof recipe will earn you rave reviews.
Ingredients for Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful and juicy turkey breast:
Main Ingredients:
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1 (5 to 6 lb) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 teaspoons salt (preferably kosher)
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
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1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
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1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for roasting)
Optional Aromatics (for extra flavor):
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1 onion, quartered
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1 lemon, halved
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2 sprigs rosemary
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2 sprigs thyme
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2 sprigs sage
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make this recipe efficiently, gather the following tools:
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Roasting pan with a rack
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Basting brush or spoon
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Instant-read thermometer
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Small mixing bowl
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Cutting board and knife
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Aluminum foil
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Measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Remove the turkey breast from the fridge about 30–45 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature. Pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up during roasting.
Step 2: Make the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until it forms a thick, flavorful paste.
Step 3: Season the Turkey
Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast using your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Spread half of the herb butter underneath the skin directly on the meat. Rub the remaining herb butter over the outside of the skin.
If you’re using aromatics, place the onion, lemon halves, and herb sprigs under the turkey breast in the roasting pan for added moisture and flavor.
Step 4: Roast the Turkey
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey breast skin-side up on a roasting rack in a pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep things moist.
Roast uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the breast. Begin checking the internal temperature after 1 hour and 20 minutes. The thickest part of the meat should register 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Baste Occasionally
Every 30–40 minutes, baste the turkey breast with pan juices. This enhances flavor and helps keep the meat juicy.
Step 6: Rest the Turkey
Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 15–20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Tips for Making and Serving Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Choose a Bone-In Turkey Breast
Bone-in, skin-on turkey breast delivers superior flavor and moisture compared to boneless cuts. The bone helps retain heat and adds depth to the meat.
Use Fresh Herbs Whenever Possible
Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage bring an aromatic punch that dried herbs can’t match. However, if you must use dried herbs, reduce the quantity by one-third.
Dry the Skin for Extra Crispiness
Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. Thoroughly patting the turkey dry before seasoning is a key step for golden, crackly skin.
Don’t Skip the Resting Period
Resting ensures juicy meat. Cutting the turkey too soon will cause all the juices to run out, leaving you with dry slices.
Make Gravy with Pan Juices
Don’t discard the flavorful drippings! Use them to create a quick, savory gravy by simmering with flour and a bit of cream or more broth.
Serving Ideas
This turkey breast pairs perfectly with classic Thanksgiving sides like:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Roasted Brussels sprouts
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Cranberry sauce
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Buttery stuffing
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Sweet potato casserole
Nutritional Value (Per 6 oz Serving)
Here’s an approximate breakdown for a 6 oz (170g) serving of roasted turkey breast with herb butter:
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 38g
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Fat: 17g
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Carbohydrates: 1g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sodium: 680mg
Please note: Nutritional values may vary based on the size of the turkey and specific ingredients used.
Why This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast Is Ideal for an Easy Thanksgiving Dinner
Preparing a stress-free Thanksgiving starts with smart choices—like this Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast. It’s quick to cook, requires minimal prep, and doesn’t sacrifice the comfort and tradition that we all crave during the holiday. If you’re hosting a small gathering or prefer a more manageable main course, this recipe is your perfect solution.
You can even make it the night before and reheat gently the next day, giving you more time to focus on your guests, sides, and maybe even a slice (or two) of pie.
Make It Ahead: Time-Saving Tips
For an easy Thanksgiving dinner, here’s how you can plan ahead:
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1 Day Before: Prepare the herb butter and store it in the fridge.
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Morning of: Season the turkey breast and let it marinate for a few hours.
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2 Hours Before Dinner: Start roasting to ensure it’s hot and fresh.
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After Cooking: Let it rest and carve just before serving.
You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal and guests.
Final Thoughts: Bring Flavor and Ease to Your Table
This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast proves that you don’t need to roast a full turkey to enjoy a festive, flavorful Thanksgiving meal. With just the right balance of herbs, citrus, and buttery goodness, this recipe turns a simple cut of meat into a holiday-worthy main course.
If you’re looking for an easy Thanksgiving dinner that still impresses, give this turkey breast a try. Whether you’re feeding two or six, your guests will be coming back for seconds—and maybe asking for the recipe!