Citrus Herb Turkey Breast

Introduction

Citrus Herb Turkey Breast brings a fresh, vibrant twist to classic turkey dishes, combining the lively zest of citrus with the savory depth of aromatic herbs. Perfect for holiday meals or special family dinners, this dish promises a tender and juicy turkey breast that’s infused with bright, tangy flavors and a fragrant herbal touch. It’s a refreshing departure from the typical roast turkey, offering a balance of savory and citrusy notes that will delight your taste buds.

The magic happens during roasting, as the turkey breast absorbs the flavors from a medley of fresh herbs—think rosemary, thyme, and sage—alongside slices of lemon and orange. The citrus not only adds a subtle tang but also helps keep the meat moist and succulent throughout the cooking process. This dish is ideal for smaller gatherings or when you want to enjoy the richness of roasted turkey without the fuss of cooking a whole bird.

I first made this Citrus Herb Turkey Breast for a Thanksgiving dinner when we were hosting just a few close friends. I wanted something special but didn’t feel like tackling a whole turkey. The aroma that filled the kitchen as it roasted was absolutely divine, with the citrus and herbs creating an inviting and warm atmosphere. When we finally sat down to eat, the flavors were spot on—each bite was juicy, with just the right hint of zest and herbal goodness. It quickly became a new favorite, and now I make it whenever I’m craving a deliciously simple yet elegant turkey dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons why you’ll love Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

• Burst of Flavor: The combination of citrus and herbs makes for a fresh and vibrant taste.
• Juicy and Tender: Roasting the turkey breast with a citrus-herb butter keeps it moist and flavorful.
• Perfect for Smaller Gatherings: Ideal for a family dinner or intimate holiday celebration.
• Less Fuss than a Whole Turkey: Easier and quicker to prepare than a whole bird.
• Healthy and Light: Turkey breast is a lean source of protein, making this dish a lighter option.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful citrus slices and herbs make for a beautiful serving.
• Customizable Seasonings: You can adjust the herbs and citrus to your taste preferences.
• Easy Leftovers: Leftovers make for great sandwiches or salads.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe naturally fits into a gluten-free diet.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The flavors appeal to a variety of palates, making it a popular choice.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fat: 18g, Carbohydrates: 2g, Protein: 36g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

For the Turkey Breast

• 4-5 pound turkey breast, bone-in, skin-on

Citrus Herb Butter

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Roasting Pan

• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Ingredient Highlights

• Turkey Breast: Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness.
• Citrus Zest: Adds a bright and tangy flavor to the butter.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and sage infuse the turkey with an earthy aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

Prepare the Citrus Herb Butter

1. Mix Butter and Flavors: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon zest, orange zest, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Prepare the Turkey Breast

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Loosen the Skin: Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast, being careful not to tear it.
3. Apply Butter Under the Skin: Rub about two-thirds of the citrus herb butter mixture under the skin of the turkey, spreading it evenly.
4. Apply Butter on Top: Rub the remaining butter on the outside of the skin.

Roast the Turkey

1. Arrange Aromatics in Roasting Pan: Place the quartered onion, lemon slices, and orange slices in the bottom of a roasting pan. Pour in the chicken broth.
2. Place Turkey Breast on Top: Set the prepared turkey breast on top of the aromatics.
3. Roast in Oven: Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste occasionally with pan juices.
4. Rest Before Slicing: Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.

Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Carve the turkey breast and serve it with the roasted citrus and herbs.

How to Serve

Here are some serving suggestions for Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

• Pair with Classic Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary for extra color.
• Serve with Pan Drippings: Drizzle pan drippings over the sliced turkey for added flavor.
• Make Sandwiches: Use leftovers for delicious turkey sandwiches.
• Include in Salads: Add cold slices to salads for a protein boost.
• Serve with Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots for a complete meal.
• Accompany with Gravy: Make a quick gravy from the pan drippings.
• Use in Wraps: Wrap slices in a tortilla with fresh greens for a light lunch.
• Add to Soup: Leftover turkey can be used in a hearty soup.
• Plate Family Style: Present the carved turkey on a large platter surrounded by the roasted citrus and herbs.

Additional Tips

Maximize your cooking success with these helpful tips:

• Let the Turkey Rest: Allowing the turkey to rest ensures it remains juicy.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness with a meat thermometer for the best results.
• Baste Occasionally: Basting helps keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
• Don’t Overcook: Watch the internal temperature to avoid drying out the turkey.
• Prep Ahead: Prepare the citrus herb butter in advance to save time.
• Save the Pan Drippings: They make a delicious gravy or sauce.
• Choose Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried can be used in a pinch.
• Add More Citrus: If you love citrus, add extra slices to the roasting pan.
• Use Butter Generously: Applying butter under and over the skin keeps the meat moist.
• Check Skin for Crispiness: If you prefer crispy skin, broil for a few minutes at the end.

Recipe Variations

Try these creative variations for your Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

• Honey-Glazed Version: Add a tablespoon of honey to the butter mixture for a touch of sweetness.
• Spicy Option: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Garlic-Lovers: Double the garlic for extra garlicky goodness.
• Herb Mix: Swap out the herbs with dill or tarragon for different flavors.
• Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lime, lemon, and orange for a more diverse citrus profile.
• Butter Substitute: Use olive oil instead of butter for a different taste.
• Add Wine: Pour a splash of white wine into the roasting pan for added depth.
• Maple Infusion: Mix in a bit of maple syrup with the butter for a unique flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Add smoked paprika to the butter for a smoky note.
• Apple Addition: Add a few apple slices to the roasting pan for a hint of sweetness.

Freezing and Storage

Keep your Citrus Herb Turkey Breast fresh with these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
• Avoid Overheating: Reheating at a low temperature keeps the turkey moist.

Special Equipment

Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

• Roasting Pan: A large roasting pan for cooking the turkey.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the turkey reaches the correct internal temperature.
• Basting Brush: For applying the citrus herb butter.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the turkey if it browns too quickly.
• Sharp Knife: For carving the turkey breast.
• Cutting Board: For slicing the turkey after resting.
• Zester: To zest the lemon and orange.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the citrus herb butter ingredients.
• Tongs: For handling the turkey and placing it in the roasting pan.
• Oven Mitts: For safely handling hot equipment.

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions about making Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

• Can I use boneless turkey breast?
  Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• How do I keep the turkey from drying out?
  Baste it regularly and let it rest before carving to retain moisture.
• Can I use dried herbs?
  Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used.
• What can I do with leftovers?
  Make sandwiches, wraps, or add them to salads and soups.
• How do I know when it’s done?
  The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Can I use salted butter?
  If using salted butter, reduce the additional salt in the recipe.
• What if I don’t have a roasting pan?
  A baking dish will work as long as it’s large enough to fit the turkey breast.
• Should I cover the turkey while roasting?
  If the skin starts to brown too quickly, cover with foil.
• Can I prepare the butter mixture ahead of time?
  Yes, you can make the butter mixture up to 3 days in advance.
• Can I make gravy from the drippings?
  Absolutely, the drippings will make a flavorful gravy.

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Conclusion

Citrus Herb Turkey Breast is a delightful dish that adds a refreshing twist to traditional turkey recipes, featuring a blend of vibrant citrus and aromatic herbs that infuse the meat with incredible flavor. This juicy and tender roast is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it a stunning centerpiece for any meal.

Whether you’re preparing it for a special holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. The citrus zest adds a bright, tangy note, while the fresh herbs bring depth and earthiness that perfectly complements the turkey’s natural flavors. It’s versatile enough to pair with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, or you can get creative with the leftovers by making sandwiches or adding it to salads.

Serve this Citrus Herb Turkey Breast warm, straight from the oven, and watch as your loved ones savor every bite. I’d love to see how your dish turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I always enjoy seeing your delicious creations!