How to Cook Perfectly Juicy Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast Every Time!

Enjoy a juicy and flavorful oven-roasted turkey breast, perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe will guide you through the process of achieving a golden-brown exterior and tender meat, ideal for your holiday feast or a delightful family dinner.

Ingredients

• For the Turkey:
  • 1 (4 to 6 pounds) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup chicken broth (for moisture)
• For Optional Gravy:
  • Drippings from the roasted turkey
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup turkey or chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the turkey will cook evenly and develop that beautiful, crispy skin.

2. Prepare the Turkey

Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown skin. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and lemon zest. Rub this mixture generously all over the turkey breast, ensuring to get it under the skin for maximum flavor.

3. Roast the Turkey

Place the seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin-side up. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist while it roasts. Cover the turkey loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from browning too quickly.

Roast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up beautifully.

4. Rest the Turkey

Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

5. Make the Gravy (Optional)

While the turkey is resting, you can make a delicious gravy. Pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve

Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve with your choice of sides, drizzled with homemade gravy if desired. Enjoy the flavors and the satisfaction of a perfectly roasted turkey breast!