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Perfect Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast for Small Gatherings

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This herb butter roasted turkey breast is perfect for small gatherings, delivering crispy golden skin and impossibly juicy meat with minimal effort. Ideal for Thanksgiving with a small crew or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (4–5 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (plus more for seasoning)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken or turkey broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a rack in the lower third of the oven.
  2. Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Prepare the turkey breast: Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. Let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes to take the chill off.
  4. Loosen the skin: Using your fingers, gently separate the skin from the meat, working from the top down. Be careful not to tear the skin.
  5. Apply the herb butter: Take about two-thirds of the herb butter and spread it evenly under the skin, directly onto the meat. Spread the remaining butter all over the outside of the skin.
  6. Truss the breast: Tie the turkey breast with kitchen twine at 2-inch intervals to create a neat, compact shape.
  7. Season and oil: Sprinkle the outside of the turkey breast with a little more salt and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and rub it in gently.
  8. Set up the roasting pan: Place the turkey breast on the rack in the roasting pan. Pour the broth into the bottom of the pan, being careful not to splash the turkey.
  9. Roast at high heat: Place the turkey in the oven and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes.
  10. Reduce the oven temperature: After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue roasting for another 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) when measured at the thickest part of the breast.
  11. Baste once or twice (optional): If desired, baste the turkey with the pan juices halfway through the roasting time.
  12. Rest the turkey: Remove the turkey from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
  13. Carve and serve: Remove the kitchen twine. Slice the turkey breast against the grain into thick, even slices. Arrange on a platter and spoon any accumulated juices over the top.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the turkey breast; wet skin won’t crisp. Let butter soften naturally for easier spreading. Use a thermometer for accurate doneness. Trussing helps even cooking. Make extra herb butter for other uses.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/perfect-herb-butter-roasted-turkey-breast-for-small-gatherings/