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Best Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe for Two

herb butter roasted turkey breast for two - featured image

This herb butter roasted turkey breast is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly sized for two. It’s a show-stopping main dish that converts turkey skeptics without the stress of a whole bird.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (2-3 lb / 900g-1.3kg) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 small onion, quartered (optional)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the turkey breast out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature. Pat the skin completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Gently use your fingers to loosen the skin from the meat of the turkey breast, creating a pocket between the skin and the meat.
  4. Take about two-thirds of the herb butter and spread it evenly under the skin, directly onto the meat. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the skin.
  5. Rub the olive oil over the buttered skin. Place the onion wedges and fresh herb sprigs in the bottom of your roasting pan. Pour the broth into the pan. Place the turkey breast on top of the onions.
  6. Roast for about 50-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast reaches 155°F (68°C). Start checking the temperature at the 45-minute mark.
  7. About halfway through cooking, baste the turkey with the pan juices. When it reaches 155°F, remove it from the oven. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. The temperature will continue to rise to a safe 165°F (74°C) during this time.
  8. After resting, transfer the turkey to a cutting board. Carve against the grain into thick slices. Pour the pan juices over the top or use them to make a quick gravy.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting time; it’s crucial for juicy meat. Use a thermometer, not a timer, for perfect doneness. Pat the skin dry for crispy skin. Butter under the skin is non-negotiable. If the skin browns too fast, tent with foil.

Nutrition

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