Dummy Proof, Juicy and Tender Turkey Breast for Thanksgiving 🦃✨

This recipe is a game changer for your holiday feast! It's simple, yet guarantees a juicy and tender turkey breast that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Perfect for even the most novice of cooks, this turkey is infused with flavors and finished with a golden, crispy skin that looks as good as it tastes. You won't even need to worry about basting!

Ingredients

For the turkey

• 1 (4-6 lb) boneless turkey breast
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a touch of smokiness)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or stock, low sodium)

For optional aromatics

• 1 lemon, quartered
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves of garlic, smashed

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve that desirable crispy skin!

🥄 Make sure to remove any packaging and the pop-up timer if present.

• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika.

• Rub the seasoning mixture liberally all over the turkey breast. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies! Don't be shy; this is what creates that incredible flavor.

🧊 You can let the turkey sit for up to an hour at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption, but it’s not mandatory!

• Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth around it. If you’re using aromatics, scatter them around the turkey in the broth.

• Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy to achieve that perfect juiciness.

⏰ Check for doneness after 1.5 hours, as cooking times may vary depending on the size of your turkey.

• Once done, take the turkey out of the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

💖 Resting is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.

Variations

• Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley and sage to the seasoning blend for a vibrant and earthy flavor. 🌿
• Citrus twist: Replace some broth with orange juice for a bright, complementary flavor that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
• Brine it: For an extra layer of flavor, consider brining the turkey in a saltwater solution overnight. Just ensure to pat it dry and reduce the added salt in the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with classic Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a feast that celebrates the season! Don’t forget to save some turkey drippings for a delicious gravy. Enjoy! 🍽️🦃