Roasted turkey breast

Introduction

This easy roasted turkey breast recipe offers a juicy and flavorful alternative to cooking a whole turkey, making it ideal for smaller gatherings or weeknight dinners. Coated in a spiced butter rub, the turkey is roasted to golden perfection, with a simple, rich gravy made from the pan drippings. This recipe is straightforward and delivers a tender, delicious turkey breast every time.

Ingredients

• Turkey Breast:
  • 1 (3 to 4-pound) bone-in turkey breast
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
• Gravy:
  • Pan drippings (about 1/4 to 2/3 cup)
  • 16 ounces chicken or turkey stock
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Turkey:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet or inside a roasting pan.
   • Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Spiced Butter Rub:
   • In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and minced garlic to form a spreadable paste.
3. Apply the Rub:
   • Place the turkey breast on the rack. Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey breast, including under the skin if possible, to infuse extra flavor.
4. Roast the Turkey:
   • Roast the turkey breast for about 90 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
   • Remove from the oven and let the turkey rest for 30 minutes to lock in the juices.
5. Make the Gravy:
   • Strain the pan drippings through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any solids.
   • In a separate shaker cup, combine the chicken or turkey stock with the flour, shaking well to make a smooth slurry.
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the drippings, then gradually whisk in the slurry. Continue whisking to prevent lumps, cooking until the gravy thickens (about 10-20 minutes).
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Slice the turkey breast and serve with the homemade gravy on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion

This roasted turkey breast recipe is an easy yet elegant option for a Thanksgiving main course or a comforting family dinner. With a savory butter rub and rich gravy made from the drippings, this dish is full of flavor and offers a great alternative to preparing a whole bird. The result is a tender, juicy turkey breast that pairs beautifully with classic sides or can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying meal. Enjoy this no-fuss, delicious turkey dish!