How Long to Cook a Turkey Breast: The Ultimate Guide

ByMike Thompson Turkey Recipe

How Long to Cook a Turkey Breast

The holidays are coming up, and that means it’s time to start thinking about cooking a turkey. If you’re planning on roasting a turkey breast, you’ll need to know how long to cook it for. The cooking time will vary depending on the weight of the turkey breast, but here is a general rule of thumb:

* For a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast, cook it for 20 minutes per pound at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
* For a boneless, skinless turkey breast, cook it for 15 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Of course, these are just guidelines. The actual cooking time may vary depending on the size and shape of your turkey breast, as well as the temperature of your oven. To be sure that your turkey is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

So, there you have it. Now you know how long to cook a turkey breast. Happy holidays!

Weight (lbs) Cook Time (minutes) Rest Time (minutes)
3 1 hour 15 minutes 15 minutes
4 1 hour 30 minutes 20 minutes
5 1 hour 45 minutes 25 minutes
6 2 hours 30 minutes
7 2 hours 15 minutes 35 minutes
8 2 hours 30 minutes 40 minutes

Introduction

Turkey breast is a popular dish for Thanksgiving and other holidays. It is a relatively easy dish to cook, but it is important to cook it properly so that it is juicy and flavorful. The cooking time for a turkey breast will vary depending on a number of factors, including the weight of the turkey breast, the temperature of the oven, the type of oven, and whether the turkey breast is stuffed or not.

Factors Affecting Turkey Breast Cooking Time

The following are some of the factors that will affect the cooking time of a turkey breast:

* Weight of the turkey breast: The larger the turkey breast, the longer it will take to cook. A general rule of thumb is to allow 15 minutes per pound of turkey breast. However, you may need to adjust this cooking time depending on the specific size and shape of your turkey breast.
* Temperature of the oven: The higher the oven temperature, the faster the turkey breast will cook. However, it is important to avoid cooking the turkey breast at too high of a temperature, as this can dry out the meat. A good rule of thumb is to cook the turkey breast at 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Type of oven: The type of oven you are using will also affect the cooking time of the turkey breast. Ovens with convection fans will cook the turkey breast more evenly and quickly than ovens without convection fans.
* Whether the turkey breast is stuffed or not: A stuffed turkey breast will take longer to cook than a boneless turkey breast. This is because the stuffing will absorb heat and slow down the cooking process.
* Whether the turkey breast is bone-in or boneless: A bone-in turkey breast will take longer to cook than a boneless turkey breast. This is because the bones will conduct heat and slow down the cooking process.

Recommended Cooking Times for Turkey Breasts

The following are some recommended cooking times for turkey breasts:

* By weight:
* 3-4 pounds: 1 1/2-2 hours
* 4-5 pounds: 2-2 1/2 hours
* 5-6 pounds: 2 1/2-3 hours
* 6-7 pounds: 3-3 1/2 hours
* 7-8 pounds: 3 1/2-4 hours
* By temperature of the oven:
* 325 degrees Fahrenheit: 15 minutes per pound
* 350 degrees Fahrenheit: 12 minutes per pound
* 375 degrees Fahrenheit: 10 minutes per pound
* By type of oven:
* Convection oven: 15-20 minutes per pound
* Conventional oven: 17-22 minutes per pound
* For stuffed turkeys:
* Add 15-20 minutes to the cooking time for each 5 pounds of turkey breast.
* For bone-in turkeys:
* Add 15-20 minutes to the cooking time for each 5 pounds of turkey breast.

The cooking time for a turkey breast will vary depending on a number of factors. However, the guidelines in this article will help you to cook a perfectly cooked turkey breast every time.

Additional Tips for Cooking Turkey Breasts

* 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 15 minutes before carving it. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to be more tender.
* Serve the turkey breast with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.

Enjoy!

3. Tips for Cooking Turkey Breast

Turkey breast is a delicious and versatile meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you’re roasting it in the oven, cooking it in a slow cooker, or smoking it, there are a few tips that will help you cook a perfect turkey breast every time.

How to brine a turkey breast

Brining is a great way to add flavor and moisture to turkey breast. The salt in the brine helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender. It also helps to retain moisture, so your turkey breast won’t dry out during cooking.

To brine a turkey breast, you’ll need:

* 1 gallon of water
* 1 cup of kosher salt
* 1/2 cup of brown sugar
* 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 cup of garlic powder
* 1/4 cup of onion powder
* 1/4 cup of dried oregano
* 1/4 cup of dried thyme
* 1/4 cup of black peppercorns
* 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. In a large container, combine the water, salt, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, peppercorns, and bay leaf.
2. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
3. Add the turkey breast to the brine and submerge it completely.
4. Cover the container and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
5. Remove the turkey breast from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels.
6. Roast the turkey breast according to the recipe.

How to roast a turkey breast

Roasting is the most common way to cook turkey breast. It’s a simple method that produces juicy, flavorful results.

To roast a turkey breast, you’ll need:

* A 3- to 4-pound turkey breast
* 1 tablespoon of olive oil
* 1 teaspoon of salt
* 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
* 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
* 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast.
5. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and roast it for 2-2 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to cook a turkey breast in a slow cooker

Slow cooking is a great way to cook turkey breast if you’re short on time. The low and slow heat will help to keep the meat moist and tender.

To cook a turkey breast in a slow cooker, you’ll need:

* A 3- to 4-pound turkey breast
* 1 cup of chicken broth
* 1/2 cup of white wine
* 1/2 cup of chopped onion
* 1/2 cup of chopped celery
* 1/2 cup of chopped carrots
* 1 teaspoon of salt
* 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano
* 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Place the turkey breast in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, white wine, onion, celery, carrots, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme.
3. Pour the broth mixture over the turkey breast.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to smoke a turkey breast

Smoking is a great way to add flavor and smokiness to turkey breast. The slow cooking process will also help to keep the meat moist and tender.

To smoke a turkey breast, you’ll need:

* A 3- to 4-pound turkey breast
* 1 tablespoon

How long does it take to cook a turkey breast per pound?

The cooking time for a turkey breast depends on the size of the breast and the desired doneness. A general rule of thumb is to cook a turkey breast for 15 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the breast.

What is the best way to cook a turkey breast?

There are many different ways to cook a turkey breast, but some of the most popular methods include roasting, baking, and grilling. Roasting is a good option for a large, whole turkey breast, while baking is a good option for smaller breasts or boneless, skinless breasts. Grilling is a good option for those who want a smoky flavor.

What temperature should I cook a turkey breast to?

The USDA recommends cooking a turkey breast to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you may prefer to cook your turkey breast to a higher temperature for a more well-done result.

How do I know when a turkey breast is done cooking?

There are a few ways to check if a turkey breast is done cooking. The most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey breast is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can also check if the turkey breast is done cooking by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the breast. The meat should be white and opaque throughout, with no pink or red juices.

Can I cook a turkey breast from frozen?

Yes, you can cook a 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.

What are some tips for cooking a turkey breast?

Here are a few tips for cooking a turkey breast:

* Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey breast is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Don’t overcook the turkey breast. Overcooked turkey breast can be dry and tough.
* Let the turkey breast rest before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to be more tender.
* Serve the turkey breast with your favorite sides. Some popular sides for turkey breast include mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

the cook time for a turkey breast per pound will vary depending on the size of the breast, the temperature of the oven, and whether or not you are using a convection oven. However, the general rule of thumb is to cook a turkey breast for 15 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are using a convection oven, you can reduce the cooking time by 10 minutes per pound.

It is important to note that the internal temperature of the turkey breast should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it is considered safe to eat. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast.

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

By following these tips, you can cook a delicious and juicy turkey breast for your next holiday meal.

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!