Barefoot Contessa’s Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast | Barefoot Contessa: Cook Like a Pro | Food Network

How to Cook Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast

Herb-roasted turkey breast is a flavorful and elegant dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It's a great alternative to cooking a whole turkey, especially for smaller gatherings. Follow these steps to prepare a juicy and delicious herb-roasted turkey breast.

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in turkey breast (4-6 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Optional: fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the oven rack in the lower third of the oven to accommodate the turkey breast.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a fragrant herb paste.

Step 3: Season the Turkey Breast

Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin over the turkey breast, being careful not to tear it. Rub half of the herb mixture under the skin, spreading it evenly over the meat. Rub the remaining herb mixture over the skin of the turkey breast.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey Breast

Place the seasoned turkey breast on a roasting rack set in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This will help keep the turkey moist and create flavorful drippings for gravy. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone.

Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey with the pan drippings every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Rest the Turkey

Once the turkey breast reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

Step 6: Carve and Serve

Carve the turkey breast by slicing against the grain into thin slices. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve the herb-roasted turkey breast with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Tips for a Perfect Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but if you don't have them, dried herbs can be used. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh.
• Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey breast is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Let it Rest: Allowing the turkey to rest before carving ensures the juices are retained, making the meat more flavorful and moist.
• Save the Drippings: Use the drippings in the roasting pan to make a delicious gravy to accompany your turkey.

Conclusion

Herb-roasted turkey breast is a delightful dish that is both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. With its juicy, flavorful meat and aromatic herbs, it's sure to be a hit at any meal. Follow these steps and tips for a perfectly cooked turkey breast that will have your guests asking for seconds.