Lemon And Herb Turkey Breast
A flavorful lemon and herb turkey breast marinated and grilled to perfection, offering bright citrus notes and savory herbs—perfect for family dinners or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, dried sage, dried marjoram, salt, and pepper in a gallon-size plastic food bag.
- Refrigerate the turkey and marinade for 24 hours.
- Fold a piece of heavy aluminum foil in half with the dull side out to form an 18-inch square.
- Place the turkey breast in the center of the foil and drizzle with the marinade.
- Fold the foil over to seal tightly.
- Prepare medium hot coals for grilling.
- Grill the foil packet 5 to 6 inches over the coals for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil packet from the grill and reserve any juices.
- Unwrap the turkey from the foil and grill, basting with the reserved juices and turning over, for an additional 20 to 30 minutes or until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade. If you don't have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can be a good substitute. Ensure the turkey breast is fully coated in the marinade for maximum flavor infusion. Marinating for longer than 24 hours can intensify the taste, but be cautious not to over-marinate as it may affect the texture.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon and herb turkey breast pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with mashed potatoes or quinoa. Consider a light citrus vinaigrette on the salad to complement the flavors of the turkey. For a hearty option, try it with the Sweet-N-Sour Turkey Meatballs on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the turkey in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave, covering the turkey to retain moisture, and heat in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon And Herb Turkey Breast contains roughly 14 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 878mg per serving (38% 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 frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a frozen turkey breast, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating. This may take 24 to 48 hours depending on the size. Ensure it is fully thawed to allow the marinade to penetrate the meat effectively.
What can I do if I don't have a grill?
If you don't have a grill, you can bake the turkey breast in the oven. Preheat to 350°F, place the foil packet in a baking dish, and bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method will also keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
How can I tell when the turkey is done cooking?
The best way to check if the turkey is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear when the turkey is pierced, and the meat is no longer pink.
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).