This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast is perfect for small gatherings or weeknight dinners. Roasted with a blend of fresh herbs and garlic, this turkey breast is juicy, flavorful, and accompanied by tender, caramelized vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. It’s an easy, impressive dish that brings out the best in classic flavors and creates an inviting centerpiece without the hassle of roasting a whole turkey.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Breast:
- 1 (3-4 lb) bone-in turkey breast
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- Olive oil, for tossing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
This combination of ingredients creates a beautifully seasoned turkey breast with a crispy skin and perfectly roasted vegetables that absorb the rich, savory flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a roasting rack in a large baking pan to elevate the turkey breast and ensure even roasting.
2. Prepare the Herb Rub:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to get it under the skin for extra flavor.
3. Arrange the Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, toss the baby potatoes, carrots, and onion with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
- Arrange the vegetables around the turkey breast in the roasting pan.
4. Roast the Turkey:
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Roast the turkey breast for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, inserting it into the thickest part of the breast without touching the bone.
- Baste occasionally with pan juices to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
5. Rest and Serve:
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making the turkey more tender.
- Serve with the roasted vegetables, garnished with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Turkey Breast
- Rub Under the Skin: For maximum flavor, rub the herb mixture both on top of and under the turkey skin. This infuses the turkey with a deeper, richer taste.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the turkey is cooked perfectly by using a meat thermometer. Turkey can quickly become dry if overcooked, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Baste for Extra Juiciness: Basting the turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes helps keep it moist and enhances the flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the turkey to rest before slicing locks in the juices, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Vegetables is a great alternative to roasting a whole turkey, especially for smaller gatherings or more casual meals. The fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil give the turkey a delicious, aromatic flavor while the vegetables cook alongside it, absorbing the savory flavors. This recipe is simple yet elegant and brings out the best in classic holiday flavors without requiring hours of preparation.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead?
- Yes! A boneless turkey breast will cook faster than a bone-in breast, so check for doneness around the 1-hour mark. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. What other vegetables can I use?
- Feel free to add or substitute other root vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. They will roast beautifully and complement the turkey.
3. How do I keep the turkey breast moist?
- Basting with pan juices and letting the turkey rest before slicing both help to retain moisture. Using a bone-in breast also helps the meat stay juicier.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the herb rub and coat the turkey breast up to 24 hours in advance. Store the coated turkey in the fridge, then roast on the day of serving.
5. What can I serve with this turkey breast?
- This turkey pairs well with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
6. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
- Yes, but since dried herbs are more concentrated, use about 1 teaspoon each of dried rosemary, thyme, and parsley in place of fresh.
Conclusion
This Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Vegetables is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving to a cozy Sunday dinner. It’s juicy, aromatic, and full of comforting flavors, with tender roasted vegetables that soak up all the delicious juices. This recipe is simple to prepare but yields an impressive and satisfying meal. Try it out for your next gathering or family dinner!