Herb Butter Basted Turkey Breast
Herb butter basted turkey breast delivers tender, flavorful meat with aromatic herbs and citrus, perfect for festive occasions or a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine butter, lemon juice, soy sauce, green onions, thyme, sage, marjoram, salt, and pepper in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Place the turkey breast, skin side up, in a lightly oiled 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Baste the turkey with the butter mixture.
- Cover the pan with foil.
- Insert a meat thermometer through the foil into the thickest part of the breast, ensuring it does not touch bone.
- Make an opening in the foil so the thermometer does not touch the foil.
- Bake at 325°F for approximately 2 hours or until the thermometer registers 170°F, basting often with the butter mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ghee instead of butter. If you want to add a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be included in the butter mixture. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for lemon juice if you prefer a different tang. Make sure to baste the turkey frequently to keep it moist and flavorful; this technique works well with other proteins too, like in Turkey On The Grill.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herb butter basted turkey breast with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or cranberry sauce for a festive touch. It also pairs beautifully with Orange Muffins With Smoked Turkey for a unique twist. For an additional flavor layer, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the turkey and warm it in a skillet with a bit of broth or water to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can cover it with foil and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb Butter Basted Turkey Breast contains roughly 35 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2780mg per serving (121% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of poultry for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken or a smaller turkey, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken breasts generally cook faster, so check for doneness earlier. The herb butter mixture will enhance the flavor of any poultry, making it a versatile option.
What if I don't have fresh herbs on hand?
If fresh herbs aren't available, dried herbs work perfectly as substitutes. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh ones. This will still give you great flavor without compromising your dish, making it easier to prepare.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the herb butter mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. On the day of serving, simply baste the turkey with the cold mixture before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time on the day of your gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).