Herb & Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet show-stopping centerpiece that doesn’t require wrestling a whole turkey, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Herb & Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe. I absolutely love how juicy and flavorful this turkey breast turns out, with crispy garlic-herb skin that makes every bite memorable. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering, this recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Stick around because I’m sharing all my best tips to help you nail it perfectly.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Herb & Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe, I like to keep the ingredient list simple but impactful. The fresh herbs and garlic really make the butter pop, and the water helps keep things moist during roasting. Grab fresh thyme and rosemary if you can – frozen just doesn’t give the same punch of flavor here.

• Half turkey breast: Choose a fresh or thawed half breast, about 3 to 4 pounds, for the best size and cooking time balance.
• Butter: Use softened, room temperature butter so it spreads easily under the skin.
• Fresh thyme: Fresh leaves add brightness and earthy depth that dried just can’t match.
• Fresh rosemary: Adds piney aroma—go easy as it’s quite potent.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives a mellow but essential savory note.
• Salt: Don’t be shy – salt is your friend to bring all the flavors forward.
• Cracked black pepper: Adds a nice bit of bite and contrast.
• Water: A small amount in the pan ensures the breast stays moist during roasting.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes your own, so don’t hesitate to tweak this herb & garlic roasted turkey breast recipe based on what you love or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas I’ve tried and enjoyed.

• Herb swap: Sometimes I replace rosemary with sage or add a spoonful of fresh parsley to brighten the flavors.
• Spicy kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic butter.
• Citrus twist: A little lemon zest mixed into the butter takes the flavor to another level—especially great for spring and summer meals.
• Vegetable bed: Instead of parchment, roast the turkey on a bed of sliced onions, carrots, and celery to boost flavor and make a ready-made pan sauce.

How to Make Herb & Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Turkey and Herb Butter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, finely chop the fresh thyme, rosemary, and mince your garlic. In a small bowl, combine these herbs and garlic with softened butter. Using your fingers is the best way to get everything evenly mixed while softening the butter just a bit more—it’ll spread on easily under the skin. Take your time here; this herb butter is where the magic happens!

Step 2: Butter the Turkey Breast Inside and Out

Next, gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast, being careful not to tear it. I like to start at the narrow end and slide my fingers under, creating a pocket. Spread about half of the butter mixture directly under the skin, coating the breast evenly. Then slather the rest over the top of the skin—this creates that gorgeous, crispy crust you’ll love. Season the outside with salt and cracked black pepper for good measure.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey Breast

Place the breast skin-side up in a roasting pan lined with parchment paper. If you’re feeling fancy (and want extra flavor), lay it on a bed of sliced onions, carrots, and celery instead of parchment paper. Pour about 1 cup of water into the bottom of the pan to keep things moist while roasting. Pop the pan into your preheated oven. Roast for about 15-20 minutes per pound, which is roughly an hour for a 4-pound breast.

Step 4: Crisp Up That Skin

In the last 15 minutes, remove any foil or cover you might have used, and crank the oven temperature up to 400°F (205°C). This final blast of heat crisps the skin beautifully. I always keep a meat thermometer handy to check for doneness—150°F internal temperature is your target before resting. The turkey will continue to cook a bit off the heat and reach that perfect 165°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, tent the breast loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. Resting is non-negotiable—it lets the juices redistribute so every slice is juicy, not dry. Then carve and serve immediately, or cool and save for sandwiches the next day.

How to Serve Herb & Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little extra fresh thyme over the sliced turkey just before serving—it adds a pop of green and fresh aroma that elevates the dish visually and in flavor. Sometimes a few lemon wedges on the side are great for those who want a zesty brightness to balance the rich garlic butter.

Side Dishes

My family goes crazy for this turkey breast paired with classic mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and a simple green salad. The pan drippings can easily be turned into a quick gravy to drizzle over everything. If you want extra comfort, creamy mac and cheese is a perfect match here, too.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve layered the sliced turkey breast on a beautiful platter with colorful roasted veggies and fresh herb sprigs—everyone loves how pretty it looks. Another time, I served it family-style on a wooden board with assorted artisan bread, cranberry chutney, and assorted cheeses for a casual yet elegant gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always slice leftover turkey breast and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days, and I find slicing it thin really helps when making sandwiches or quick salads.

Freezing

I’ve frozen cooked turkey breast before by wrapping it tightly in foil and then placing it in a freezer bag. It holds well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover slices loosely with foil and warm them in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes. This keeps the meat moist without drying it out like the microwave sometimes does.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Herb & Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes anytime I want something comforting, flavorful, and fuss-free. It’s a recipe that makes you feel like a pro cook without the stress of a whole turkey. I love how it turns out every time—so juicy with that crispy, garlicky skin that everyone asks for seconds. Give it a try and I promise you’ll be glad you did, whether it’s a holiday, a Sunday dinner, or a special treat just because.

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