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Cozy Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast for Two

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A perfectly portioned bone-in turkey breast with herb butter under the skin, delivering juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin. Ideal for a cozy dinner for two without overwhelming leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rubbed sage)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (2 to 2.5 pounds / 900g to 1.1kg)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for seasoning skin)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, quartered (optional)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for the pan)

Instructions

  1. Take the turkey out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Position rack in center.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and lemon zest. Mash with a fork until evenly distributed.
  4. Pat turkey breast completely dry with paper towels.
  5. Season turkey with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, rubbing all over skin and underneath if possible.
  6. Gently slide fingers under the skin to loosen it from the meat without tearing. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin. Rub remaining butter over the outside of the skin.
  7. Place turkey in a small roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Scatter onion and herb sprigs around if using. Pour chicken broth into the pan, avoiding the butter on the turkey.
  8. Roast for 50 to 65 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) in the thickest part (avoiding bone). Start checking at 45 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven, transfer to a cutting board, and tent loosely with foil. Rest for at least 15 minutes (temperature will rise to 165°F / 74°C).
  10. While turkey rests, make a quick pan sauce: place roasting pan over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine, scrape up browned bits, and simmer 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Strain if desired.
  11. Slice turkey breast against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange on a platter and spoon pan juices over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the crispiest skin, pat turkey dry and let it air-dry uncovered in the fridge overnight before cooking. Use an instant-read thermometer for best results; do not rely on pop-up timers. Let turkey rest at least 15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, herb butter, roasted turkey, dinner for two, cozy, fall recipe, Thanksgiving for two

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/cozy-herb-butter-roasted-turkey-breast-for-two/