This rosemary garlic turkey breast is a tasty main dish that is perfect for any gathering. With juicy turkey infused with aromatic garlic and fresh rosemary, it will surely impress!
Honestly, the smell of this dish cooking is enough to make anyone hungry. I love serving it with some veggies on the side. Who can resist that combo? 😋
Preparing this turkey is a breeze! Just season it, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a delicious meal without any fuss. It’s a family favorite in my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: A skin-on, boneless turkey breast keeps the meat juicy and flavorful. You can also use a whole turkey if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want a healthier option, opting for skinless turkey will cut back on fat.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punch of flavor! If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Fresh Rosemary: Fresh rosemary elevates the taste of this dish. If you can’t find it, dried rosemary will do; however, use less, around 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs are stronger.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the turkey moist. You can substitute it with melted butter, avocado oil, or even canola oil if desired.
Lemon Zest: This adds a refreshing flavor. If you don’t have lemons, a splash of vinegar can brighten up the marinade, but use sparingly.
How Do I Ensure My Turkey Breast is Juicy and Tender?
Getting a juicy turkey breast starts with properly preparing the meat. Here’s how to ensure perfect results:
- Pat it Dry: Before seasoning, always pat down the turkey breast with paper towels. This ensures the skin gets crispy.
- Marinate: Rub the marinade under the skin and on top; this infuses flavor deep into the meat.
- Temperature is Key: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
- Baste it: Basting halfway through with pan juices helps keep the meat moist and delicious.
- Resting Time: Letting the turkey rest before slicing retains moisture. It’s tempting to dive in right away, but this step makes a big difference!
How to Make Rosemary Garlic Turkey Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (2 to 3 lbs) turkey breast, boneless and skin-on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smoky flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 1 to 1.5 hours to roast in the oven. Plus, there will be a resting time of 10–15 minutes which helps keep the turkey juicy. So, overall, plan for around 2 hours for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your turkey breast cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, black pepper, lemon zest (if using), and smoked paprika (if using). Stir everything together until it forms a nice marinade.
3. Season the Turkey:
Take the turkey breast and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is important for getting crispy skin. Rub the marinade all over the turkey breast, making sure to get some underneath the skin for extra flavor!
4. Place in Baking Tray:
Put the seasoned turkey breast on a baking tray or in a roasting pan. If you want less mess, line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
5. Roast the Turkey:
Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours. The key is to use a meat thermometer to check when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
6. Basting for Juiciness:
Halfway through cooking, take a moment to baste the turkey with its pan juices. This keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
7. Resting the Meat:
When the turkey is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This is a crucial step that allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy slices when you cut into it.
8. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the turkey breast into pieces and arrange them nicely on a serving platter. Garnish with extra sprigs of fresh rosemary for a beautiful presentation.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious rosemary garlic turkey breast warm alongside your favorite sides. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your juicy, flavorful rosemary garlic turkey breast!
Can I Use Other Herbs Instead of Rosemary?
Absolutely! If you don’t have rosemary, thyme or sage can be great alternatives that complement turkey well. Just use the same amount as you would rosemary for a flavorful twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it! Just wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
What Can I Serve With Rosemary Garlic Turkey Breast?
This turkey pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it in sandwiches or wraps the next day!
Can I Adjust the Cooking Time for Smaller or Larger Turkey Breasts?
Yes, cooking time will vary based on the size of your turkey breast. A smaller breast (around 2 lbs) will take about 1 hour, while a larger one (around 3 lbs) may take up to 1.5 hours. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
