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Cozy Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast for Two

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A perfectly portioned, incredibly forgiving, and deeply satisfying meal that delivers all the comfort of a holiday feast with a fraction of the work. This herb-crusted turkey breast is juicy, flavorful, and ready in just over an hour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (2 to 2.5 lb / 900g to 1.1kg) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 small yellow onion, quartered
  • 2 carrots, cut into large chunks

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the turkey breast out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for about 20 minutes. Pat the skin completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mash it all together with a fork until well combined.
  3. Using your fingers, gently work your way between the skin and the breast meat to create a pocket, being careful not to tear the skin.
  4. Take about two-thirds of the herb butter and slide it under the loosened skin, spreading it evenly over the breast meat. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the skin.
  5. Drizzle the olive oil over the skin and give it a final sprinkle of salt and pepper. If using kitchen twine, tie the legs together and tuck the wing tips under the breast.
  6. Place the quartered onion and carrot chunks in the bottom of your roasting pan. Pour the 1/2 cup of broth into the pan. Place the turkey breast directly on top of the vegetables.
  7. Roast for 45 minutes, then begin to check the internal temperature. Total roasting time will be between 50-70 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone.
  8. About halfway through, spoon some of the pan juices over the turkey to baste.
  9. Once the turkey hits 155°F (68°C), remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. The temperature will continue to rise to a safe 165°F (74°C) during this time.
  10. Optional: While the turkey rests, place the roasting pan over two burners on medium heat. Whisk in a splash of broth or white wine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for a minute or two, then strain. Whisk in a pat of cold butter for a rich sauce.

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh herbs. If using dried, use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh. Pat the skin thoroughly dry for crispy skin. Let the turkey rest before slicing to keep it juicy. The herb butter can be made up to 3 days in advance.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted turkey breast, herb butter turkey, turkey for two, small turkey breast, easy turkey recipe, cozy dinner, weeknight roast

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/cozy-herb-butter-roasted-turkey-breast-for-two/