Juicy Boneless Turkey Breast in the Oven

ByMike Thompson Turkey Recipe

Boneless Turkey Breast in the Oven

There’s nothing quite like a juicy, flavorful roasted turkey breast for a holiday meal. But if you’re not a fan of dealing with the mess and hassle of cooking a whole bird, a boneless turkey breast is a great alternative.

Boneless turkey breasts are typically smaller and more affordable than whole turkeys, and they cook much faster. Plus, they’re easier to carve and serve.

In this article, we’ll show you how to cook a boneless turkey breast in the oven so that it comes out perfectly juicy and delicious every time.

We’ll also share some tips for seasoning and flavoring your turkey breast, as well as how to make it ahead of time.

So whether you’re looking for a simple and straightforward way to cook a turkey breast or you want to create a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday meal, read on for all the information you need to know.

Ingredients Instructions Tips
  • 1 boneless turkey breast (about 5 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast.
  4. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and pour the melted butter over it.
  5. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  6. Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
  • To make sure the turkey is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast and make sure the temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  • If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check if the turkey is done by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the breast and making sure the juices run clear.
  • Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to be more tender.

Choosing the Right Turkey Breast

When choosing a turkey breast for roasting in the oven, there are a few factors to consider.

Size

The size of the turkey breast will determine how long it needs to cook. A general rule of thumb is to allow 1 pound of turkey breast per person. However, if you are serving other dishes with the turkey, you may want to allow a little more.

Shape

Turkey breasts come in two main shapes: boneless and bone-in. Boneless turkey breasts are easier to carve, but they can be more expensive. Bone-in turkey breasts are more flavorful, but they can be more difficult to cook evenly.

Weight

The weight of the turkey breast will also affect how long it needs to cook. A 4-pound turkey breast will take about 2 hours to cook, while a 6-pound turkey breast will take about 3 hours.

Boneless vs. Bone-in

Boneless turkey breasts are easier to carve, but they can be more expensive. Bone-in turkey breasts are more flavorful, but they can be more difficult to cook evenly.

Fresh vs. Frozen

Fresh turkey breasts are more flavorful, but they can be more expensive. Frozen turkey breasts are less expensive, but they may not be as fresh.

Here are some additional tips for choosing the right turkey breast:

* Look for a turkey breast that is plump and evenly shaped.
* The skin should be smooth and free of tears or bruises.
* The meat should be firm and pink.
* Avoid turkey breasts that are discolored or have a strong odor.

Preparing the Turkey Breast

Before you can roast a turkey breast in the oven, you need to prepare it. This involves thawing, marinating, brining, and seasoning the meat.

Thawing

If you are using a frozen turkey breast, you will need to thaw it before you can cook it. You can thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave.

* To thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator, place it in a large bowl or pan and cover it with plastic wrap. The turkey breast will take about 24 hours to thaw in the refrigerator.
* To thaw the turkey breast in cold water, place it in a large bowl or pot and cover it with cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes. The turkey breast will take about 6-8 hours to thaw in cold water.
* To thaw the turkey breast in the microwave, place it on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with plastic wrap. Microwave the turkey breast on high for 3-5 minutes per pound. The turkey breast will take about 30 minutes to thaw in the microwave.

Marinating

Marinating a turkey breast can help to add flavor and moisture to the meat. You can marinate the turkey breast in a variety of different marinades, such as:

* A simple brine of salt and water
* A marinade made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs
* A marinade made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger

The turkey breast can be marinated for anywhere from 30 minutes to overnight.

Brining

Brining a turkey breast can help to make the meat more tender and juicy. To brine the turkey breast, you will need to dissolve salt in water and then submerge the turkey breast in the brine. The turkey breast will need to brine for at least 4 hours, but it can be brined for up to 24 hours.

Seasoning

Once the turkey breast has been thawed, marinated, and brined, it is time to season it. You can season the turkey breast with any seasonings you like, such as:

* Salt and pepper
* Garlic powder
* Onion powder
* Paprika
* Cayenne pepper

The turkey breast can be seasoned before or after it is roasted.

Choosing the right turkey breast and preparing it properly are essential for a delicious roasted turkey breast. By following these tips, you can be sure to cook a turkey breast that is moist, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

3. Cooking the Turkey Breast

The oven temperature, cooking time, and resting time are all important factors to consider when cooking a boneless turkey breast.

Oven Temperature

The ideal oven temperature for cooking a boneless turkey breast is 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to ensure that the turkey breast cooks evenly and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for a boneless turkey breast will vary depending on its size. A general rule of thumb is to cook a boneless turkey breast for 20 minutes per pound. However, it is always best to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast with a meat thermometer to ensure that it is cooked through.

Resting Time

After cooking, it is important to let the turkey breast rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy turkey breast.

Tips for Cooking a Boneless Turkey Breast

* Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. The turkey breast is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Let the turkey breast rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy turkey breast.
* Carve the turkey breast against the grain. This will help to keep the meat moist and tender.
* Serve the turkey breast with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.

4. Carving and Serving the Turkey Breast

Carving a boneless turkey breast is a simple process. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

* Use a sharp knife to carve the turkey breast.
* Start by cutting the turkey breast in half lengthwise.
* Then, cut each half into thin slices.
* Serve the turkey breast with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.

Serving Suggestions

Here are a few ideas for serving a boneless turkey breast:

* Serve the turkey breast as the main course for a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
* Serve the turkey breast on a sandwich with your favorite toppings.
* Use the turkey breast to make a casserole or soup.
* Freeze the turkey breast for later use.

A boneless turkey breast is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By following these tips, you can cook a perfectly cooked and flavorful turkey breast that your family and friends will love.

How long should I cook a boneless turkey breast in the oven?

The cooking time for a boneless turkey breast depends on its weight. A general rule of thumb is to cook a boneless turkey breast for 20 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. So, a 5-pound boneless turkey breast would cook for about 100 minutes (20 minutes per pound x 5 pounds).

What temperature should I cook a boneless turkey breast in the oven?

The ideal temperature for cooking a boneless turkey breast is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the turkey breast is cooked through without drying out.

Can I cook a boneless turkey breast from frozen?

Yes, you can cook a boneless turkey breast from frozen. However, it will take longer to cook than a thawed turkey breast. A general rule of thumb is to cook a frozen turkey breast for 50% longer than a thawed turkey breast. So, a 5-pound boneless turkey breast that is frozen would cook for about 150 minutes (100 minutes per pound x 1.5).

What is the best way to reheat a boneless turkey breast?

The best way to reheat a boneless turkey breast is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the turkey breast in a baking dish. Cover the turkey breast with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

What are some tips for cooking a boneless turkey breast?

Here are some tips for cooking a boneless turkey breast:

* Use a meat thermometer to make sure that the turkey breast is cooked through. The internal temperature of the turkey breast should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Don’t overcook the turkey breast. Overcooked turkey breast can be dry and tough.
* Let the turkey breast rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the turkey breast will be more tender.

What are some side dishes that go well with boneless turkey breast?

Here are some side dishes that go well with boneless turkey breast:

* Mashed potatoes
* Stuffing
* Cranberry sauce
* Green beans
* Roasted vegetables
* Salad

What are some other ways to cook a boneless turkey breast?

In addition to baking a boneless turkey breast in the oven, you can also cook it on the stovetop, in the slow cooker, or on the grill.

* To cook a boneless turkey breast on the stovetop, sear the turkey breast in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Then, reduce the heat to low and cook the turkey breast for 20 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
* To cook a boneless turkey breast in the slow cooker, place the turkey breast in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until cooked through.
* To cook a boneless turkey breast on the grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the turkey breast with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the turkey breast for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

cooking a boneless turkey breast in the oven is a simple and straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the tips and advice outlined in this article, you can be confident that your turkey breast will be cooked to perfection every time.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember:

* Start with a high-quality turkey breast. The better the quality of the turkey breast, the better the end result will be.
* Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that your turkey breast cooks evenly.
* Rub the turkey breast with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This will help to create a flavorful and juicy turkey breast.
* Cook the turkey breast for 15 minutes per pound. This will ensure that the turkey breast is cooked through without being overcooked.
* Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey breast, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish.

By following these tips, you can easily cook a delicious and juicy boneless turkey breast in the oven.

Author Profile

Mike Thompson
Mike Thompson
Hello, fellow turkey enthusiasts! I'm Mike Thompson, a proud resident of the picturesque state of Missouri, renowned for its thriving turkey population and favorable hunting conditions. For over a decade, I've roamed the woods, valleys, and peaks of our beautiful state, learning every nook, cranny, and secret that turkey hunting has to offer. My track record? Well, let's just say I've bagged more turkeys than there are days in November, and each hunt has added a story to my ever-growing book of experiences.

However, as much as I love the thrill of the hunt, what truly fuels my passion is the joy of sharing my knowledge with others. That's why I created this platform. This site is not just a testament to my journey but a beacon for all those who are looking to embark on their own turkey hunting adventures. Whether you're a beginner eager to get started or a seasoned pro seeking advanced tips, you'll find a wealth of information here.

From understanding turkey behavior, tracking techniques, and the best equipment to use, to the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting, this site is a comprehensive guide to all things turkey. So, strap on your boots, pick up your gear, and let's embark on a journey together into the world of turkey hunting. Welcome to my site, and happy hunting!