Print

Perfect Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast for Two

herb butter roasted turkey breast for two - featured image

A juicy, herb-crusted roasted turkey breast for two, with a two-stage herb butter technique that ensures crispy skin and tender meat. Perfect for small gatherings or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (2.5 to 3 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 2 celery stalks, cut into 3-inch pieces
  • 1 carrot, cut into chunks

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mash together with a fork until evenly distributed. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the quartered onion, celery, and carrot in the bottom of a roasting pan. Pour in the chicken broth.
  3. Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels, including under the skin flaps and around the edges.
  4. Gently loosen the skin from the meat using your fingers, starting at the top and working down without tearing. Spread about half of the herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin.
  5. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the skin, covering every inch.
  6. Optional: Tie the turkey breast with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals for even cooking.
  7. Place the turkey breast on a wire rack over the vegetables in the roasting pan. Roast for 50-65 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Start checking at 45 minutes.
  8. Optional: Baste once halfway through with pan juices.
  9. Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 15-20 minutes. The temperature will rise to 165°F (74°C). Slice against the grain and serve warm.

Notes

Pat the turkey skin very dry for the herb butter to stick. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting. Use a thermometer for accuracy; pull at 155°F and let rest to 165°F. Fresh herbs are recommended for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted turkey breast, herb butter turkey, turkey for two, small turkey breast, easy turkey recipe