Marinated Turkey Breast: Prepare to unlock a world of flavor with this incredibly juicy and tender recipe! Forget dry, bland turkey this method guarantees a succulent centerpiece for your next holiday gathering or a delightful Sunday supper. Have you ever wondered how to achieve that restaurant-quality tenderness in your own kitchen? The secret lies in the marinade, and I’m here to share all my tips and tricks.

Turkey, a staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas, has a rich history in North American cuisine. While roasting a whole turkey is a classic tradition, a marinated turkey breast offers a more manageable and equally impressive alternative, especially for smaller gatherings. This approach allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds.

People adore this dish for its simplicity and the incredible results it delivers. The marinade not only tenderizes the turkey but also infuses it with a symphony of savory and aromatic notes. The combination of herbs, spices, and citrus creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Plus, a marinated turkey breast cooks faster than a whole bird, making it a convenient option for busy cooks. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this foolproof recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Turkey Breast:

1 boneless, skinless turkey breast (about 3-4 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Marinade:

1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Additions:

Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) for garnish
Lemon slices for roasting
Vegetables (carrots, celery, onions) for roasting alongside the turkey

Preparing the Marinade:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this recipe the marinade! This is where all the magic happens, infusing the turkey breast with incredible flavor and keeping it super moist during cooking. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step.

Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Make sure they’re well combined to create a smooth base for the marinade.
Add the Mustard and Garlic: Now, add the Dijon mustard and minced garlic to the bowl. Whisk again until everything is nicely incorporated. The mustard will help emulsify the marinade and add a tangy depth of flavor, while the garlic provides that classic savory note.
Incorporate the Herbs and Spices: This is where the real flavor party begins! Add the dried rosemary, thyme, sage, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them) to the bowl. Give it all a good whisk to distribute the herbs and spices evenly throughout the marinade.
Taste and Adjust: This is a crucial step! Give the marinade a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, add a little more lemon juice. If you want it saltier, add a pinch more salt. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Marinating the Turkey Breast:

Now that we have our flavorful marinade ready, it’s time to get that turkey breast soaking up all that goodness. This step is essential for a juicy and flavorful result. The longer you marinate, the better, but even a few hours will make a noticeable difference.

Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This will help the marinade adhere better. Place the turkey breast in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
Pour the Marinade: Pour the prepared marinade over the turkey breast, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides. If using a plastic bag, seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible. If using a dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
Marinate in the Refrigerator: Place the turkey breast in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. If marinating for more than 4 hours, flip the turkey breast occasionally to ensure even marination.

Preparing to Roast:

Alright, the turkey has been marinating and is ready to be transformed into a delicious centerpiece. Let’s get everything prepped for roasting. This involves preheating the oven, preparing the roasting pan, and getting the turkey ready for its oven adventure.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This lower temperature will help the turkey cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.
Prepare the Roasting Pan: Lightly grease a roasting pan with cooking spray or olive oil. You can also line the pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. If you’re using vegetables, spread them in a single layer on the bottom of the pan. This will create a flavorful bed for the turkey and prevent it from sticking.
Remove Turkey from Marinade: Remove the turkey breast from the marinade and discard the marinade. Don’t reuse the marinade, as it has been in contact with raw turkey.
Pat Dry and Season: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This will help it brown nicely in the oven. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper. Even though it’s been marinating, a little extra seasoning on the outside will enhance the flavor.
Optional: Add Lemon Slices and Herbs: If desired, place a few lemon slices on top of the turkey breast and tuck some fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) underneath. This will add extra flavor and aroma during roasting.

Roasting the Turkey Breast:

Now for the main event roasting the turkey! This is where patience is key. We want to cook the turkey low and slow to ensure it’s juicy and cooked through. Using a meat thermometer is essential for achieving the perfect doneness.

Place Turkey in Roasting Pan: Place the prepared turkey breast in the roasting pan, on top of the vegetables if you’re using them.
Roast in the Oven: Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C).
Basting (Optional): If you want to add extra moisture and flavor, you can baste the turkey breast with pan juices every 30-45 minutes during roasting. This will help keep it moist and create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, being careful not to touch any bones. The turkey is done when the thermometer registers 165°F (74°C).

Resting and Slicing:

This is a crucial step that many people overlook, but it’s essential for a juicy and tender turkey breast. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product.

Remove from Oven: Once the turkey breast reaches 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven.
Cover and Rest: Tent the turkey breast loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the turkey breast against the grain into thin, even slices. This will make it easier to chew and more tender to eat.
Serve with Pan Juices (Optional): If desired, you can drizzle the pan juices over the sliced turkey breast for added flavor and moisture.

Serving Suggestions:

This marinated turkey breast is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Classic Holiday Dinner: Serve it as the centerpiece of your holiday dinner, alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and your favorite side dishes.
Sandwiches and Wraps: Use the sliced turkey breast to make delicious sandwiches and wraps. Add your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, and mayonnaise.
Salads: Add the sliced turkey breast to salads for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
Turkey Bowls: Create a healthy and satisfying turkey bowl with rice, beans, vegetables, and your favorite toppings.
Meal Prep: This marinated turkey breast is perfect for meal prepping. Slice it up and store it in the refrigerator for easy and healthy lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Tips and Tricks:

Here are a few extra tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect marinated turkey breast:

Don’t Overcook: Overcooked turkey is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
Let it Rest: Resting the turkey is essential for a juicy and tender result. Don

Conclusion:

This Marinated Turkey Breast recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe that once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your rotation. The combination of the savory marinade, the juicy, tender turkey, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner in my book. Forget dry, bland turkey this recipe delivers consistently delicious results every single time. It’s the perfect way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving without the fuss of roasting an entire bird.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. While I’ve outlined my favorite marinade, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature blend. A touch of smoked paprika can add a delightful smoky depth, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor the flavors to your liking!

Serving suggestions are endless! I love slicing the turkey breast thinly and serving it on crusty rolls with cranberry sauce and a dollop of mayonnaise for a fantastic sandwich. It’s also incredible served alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or asparagus. For a lighter meal, try adding it to a vibrant salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette. And if you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), they’re perfect for adding to soups, stews, or even omelets.

Looking for variations? Consider using different types of citrus in the marinade. Orange juice adds a touch of sweetness, while lime juice provides a zesty tang. You can also experiment with different vinegars, such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, to create unique flavor profiles. For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade. And if you’re short on time, you can even marinate the turkey breast for as little as 30 minutes, although I highly recommend allowing it to marinate for at least a few hours, or even overnight, for the best results.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It’s simple enough for even beginner cooks, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The Marinated Turkey Breast is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Once you’ve made it, please, please, please share your experience! Did you make any modifications to the recipe? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Leave a comment below and let me know! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your delicious creation and tag me on social media I can’t wait to see it!
Marinated Turkey Breast: The Ultimate Guide to Juicy Perfection

Juicy, flavorful marinated turkey breast, roasted to perfection. A simple marinade infuses the turkey with herbs, spices, and a touch of lemon, resulting in a tender and delicious centerpiece.

Prep Time20 minutes

Cook Time1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time5 hours 35 minutes

Category: Dinner

Yield: 6-8 servings

Save This Recipe

Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless turkey breast (about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) for garnish
- Lemon slices for roasting
- Vegetables (carrots, celery, onions) for roasting alongside the turkey
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Add Dijon mustard and minced garlic, whisking until combined. Incorporate dried rosemary, thyme, sage, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
2. Marinate the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Place the turkey breast in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the turkey breast, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Flip the turkey breast occasionally to ensure even marination.
3. Prepare to Roast: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a roasting pan with cooking spray or olive oil. Remove turkey from marinade and discard the marinade. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper. If desired, place a few lemon slices on top of the turkey breast and tuck some fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) underneath.
4. Roast the Turkey Breast: Place the prepared turkey breast in the roasting pan, on top of the vegetables if you’re using them. Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C). If you want to add extra moisture and flavor, you can baste the turkey breast with pan juices every 30-45 minutes during roasting.
5. Resting and Slicing: Once the turkey breast reaches 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven. Tent the turkey breast loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. After resting, slice the turkey breast against the grain into thin, even slices. Serve with pan juices (optional).
Notes
- Marinating the turkey breast overnight yields the best flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Resting the turkey after roasting is crucial for juicy results.
- Don’t overcook the turkey, as it will become dry.
- Basting the turkey during roasting helps keep it moist and adds flavor.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the roasting pan for a complete meal.
- Leftover turkey is great for sandwiches, salads, and meal prepping.

Marinated Turkey Breast: The Ultimate Guide to Juicy Perfection