Slow Roasted Turkey Breast (Printable version)

Tender turkey breast slow cooked with herbs and garlic, perfect for family or festive meals.

# What you need:

→ Turkey

01 - 1 boneless, skin-on turkey breast (3.5–4.5 lb)

→ Marinade & Seasoning

02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
05 - 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
06 - 1 tsp paprika
07 - 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
08 - ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
09 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Aromatics

10 - 1 onion, quartered
11 - 1 lemon, halved

→ Optional Roasting Liquid

12 - 1 cup (8 fl oz) low-sodium chicken or turkey broth

# How To:

01 - Preheat oven to 275°F. Pat turkey breast dry using paper towels.
02 - Mix olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
03 - Rub the mixture thoroughly over the turkey breast, including beneath the skin where possible.
04 - Place onion quarters and lemon halves at the bottom of a roasting pan and set the turkey breast on top with skin side up.
05 - Pour broth into the roasting pan to keep the meat moist, if desired.
06 - Roast uncovered for 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F at the thickest point.
07 - Increase oven temperature to 425°F for the last 10 minutes to crisp the skin, if preferred.
08 - Remove turkey from oven, loosely tent with foil, and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This method locks in juicy tenderness that feels almost like a well-kept secret you want to share just with good friends
  • The subtle blend of fresh thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest brightens the dish making it a standout for any family meal
02 -
  • Patting the turkey completely dry before seasoning is key to achieving crispy skin and better flavor absorption
  • Using fresh herbs rather than dried really elevates the taste and aroma, making the effort well worth it
03 -
  • Slow roasting at low heat ensures tender, juicy meat that slices cleanly every time
  • Finishing with high heat adds irresistible crispy skin, creating great texture contrast