Citrus Herb Turkey Breast

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. If you’re looking for a dish that not only impresses but also delights with its bright flavors, this is the recipe for you! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want to make something special without too much fuss. Trust me, this turkey breast will become a staple in your kitchen.

I love how this Citrus Herb Turkey Breast transforms any meal into a celebration. The combination of lemon and orange zests mixed with fresh herbs creates an aroma that fills your home and warms your heart. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can get this flavorful dish in the oven and enjoy more time with your loved ones.
• Family-friendly appeal: The balance of citrus and herbs makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike—everyone will love it!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the turkey ahead of time, making it a great option for stress-free entertaining.
• Delicious flavor: The juicy turkey infused with citrus notes is a refreshing change from traditional roasts. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

 

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Citrus Herb Turkey Breast:

For the Turkey

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

For the Roasting Pan

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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients to customize it to your liking.

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even a whole duck for a different flavor profile.
• Add more herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon for added depth.
• Citrus alternatives: Mix it up by using lime or grapefruit zest instead of lemon and orange for an exciting twist.
• Stuff it up: Consider stuffing the turkey breast with a mixture of breadcrumbs and herbs for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Citrus Herb Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Butter

Start by mixing the softened butter with the lemon zest, orange zest, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This herb butter is what gives our Citrus Herb Turkey Breast its delightful flavor! Make sure all ingredients are well combined so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast without tearing it. Spread half of the herb butter under the skin and rub the rest all over the outside of the turkey. This step ensures that every part is seasoned beautifully while keeping it moist during roasting.

Step 3: Arrange in Roasting Pan

Place the quartered onion in the bottom of your roasting pan along with sliced lemon and orange. These aromatics will infuse additional flavor into our turkey while it’s cooking. Pour in chicken broth to keep everything moist as it roasts.

Step 4: Roast Your Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place your prepared turkey on top of the onions and citrus slices. Roast for about 1 hour and 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remember to baste occasionally; this keeps our turkey juicy and enhances that delicious herb flavor.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once done roasting, let your Citrus Herb Turkey Breast rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Trust me; you’ll want every bite to be tender and juicy!

Pro Tips for Making Citrus Herb Turkey Breast

Making Citrus Herb Turkey Breast is not just about following the recipe—it’s about creating a memorable meal. Here are some tips to help you achieve turkey perfection!

• Choose the right turkey breast: Opting for a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast helps keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking, ensuring that every bite is juicy.
• Let it marinate: If time allows, let the herb butter mixture sit on the turkey for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more vibrant taste.
• Use a meat thermometer: Investing in a good meat thermometer will ensure your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees it’s cooked through while remaining tender and juicy.
• Rest before carving: Allowing the turkey to rest for at least 15-20 minutes after cooking will help redistribute the juices throughout the meat, making it easier to carve and enhancing its flavor.
• Save those drippings: Don’t forget to save the pan drippings! They can be used to make a delicious gravy or sauce that complements your turkey beautifully.

How to Serve Citrus Herb Turkey Breast

Serving your Citrus Herb Turkey Breast is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling additional chopped rosemary, thyme, or sage on top of your turkey adds a pop of color and amplifies the herbaceous notes.
• Citrus slices: Arrange lemon and orange slices around the turkey on your serving platter for a bright visual appeal and extra zest.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic make for a comforting pairing that balances out the citrusy flavors of the turkey.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes can be tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized, adding both color and texture to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the turkey.
• Cranberry Sauce: A homemade cranberry sauce offers a tangy sweetness that complements both the citrus and savory notes in your dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Citrus Herb Turkey Breast will not only taste amazing but look stunning on any dinner table! Enjoy every moment of this delightful culinary creation.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Citrus Herb Turkey Breast is not only a delightful centerpiece for any meal but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the turkey to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover turkey breast in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the turkey breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen turkey in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Place the turkey breast in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about preparing Citrus Herb Turkey Breast.

Can I use other herbs in my Citrus Herb Turkey Breast?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like parsley, oregano, or basil. Just remember that fresh herbs will provide the best flavor!

How do I ensure my Citrus Herb Turkey Breast stays juicy?

To keep your turkey breast juicy, make sure to baste it occasionally while roasting and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What sides pair well with Citrus Herb Turkey Breast?

This flavorful turkey pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. It’s versatile enough to complement various side dishes!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can season and prepare the turkey breast a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Citrus Herb Turkey Breast as much as I do! It’s a unique and vibrant twist on traditional turkey dishes that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of citrusy flavors and fragrant herbs creates a delightful experience that will surely impress your family and friends. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!