Garlic Herb Crusted Roast Turkey Breast

Tender turkey breast roasted with a flavorful garlic herb crust. The outside becomes beautifully golden while the inside stays juicy and moist. It’s a simpler alternative to whole turkey with big flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easier and faster than roasting a whole turkey
• Flavorful crust that adds texture and aroma
• Juicy, tender meat inside
• Great for holiday meals or Sunday dinner
• Can be scaled up or down

Ingredients

• Boneless turkey breast (skin-on or skinless)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley), chopped
• Lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: a splash of white wine or broth for basting

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare crust mixture: Combine garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper with oil or butter.
3. Season turkey: Pat breast dry, then rub the herb mixture all over.
4. Roast: Place on rack in roasting pan. Roast for 45–60 minutes (depending on size) until internal temperature reaches 74 °C (165 °F) in the thickest part. Optionally baste with wine or broth.
5. Rest: Let the turkey rest 10–15 minutes before slicing so juices redistribute.
6. Serve: Slice and garnish with herbs or lemon slices.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Roast time: 45–60 minutes
• Rest time: 10 minutes
• Total time: ~1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Dijon mustard under the herb crust for tanginess
• Use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available (reduce by about half)
• Add garlic cloves under the skin for more flavor
• Use a brine or marinade ahead for added juiciness

Storage & Reheating

• Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in oven at 160°–175 °C with foil to prevent drying
• Use leftovers in sandwiches, salads, soups

FAQs

• Should I cover the breast while roasting? You can tent loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
• How to check doneness? Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part.
• Can I cook this from frozen? No—a thawed breast ensures even cooking.
• Skin-on vs skinless? Skin helps crisp and lock in moisture, but skinless works fine with careful roasting.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Crusted Roast Turkey Breast delivers refined flavor and tender meat with less effort than a full turkey. The garlic- and herb-coated crust gives beautiful color and aroma, while the meat stays juicy and satisfying. Perfect for holiday dinners, special meals, or elevated Sunday roasts.

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