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Cozy Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast for Two – Easy & Perfect

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A perfectly sized bone-in turkey breast roasted with herb butter for two, delivering moist meat and crispy golden skin without the fuss of a full bird. Ideal for a cozy dinner or small holiday gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • 1 bone-in turkey breast (2 to 2.5 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for seasoning outside)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for seasoning outside)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Position rack in center and allow 20 minutes for full preheat.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and lemon zest (if using). Mash with a fork until herbs are evenly distributed.
  3. Pat turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove all moisture.
  4. Gently slide fingers under the skin to create a pocket, being careful not to tear the skin.
  5. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter under the skin directly onto the meat. Spread remaining butter over the top of the skin.
  6. Drizzle olive oil over turkey and rub all over. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
  7. Optional: Tie turkey breast with kitchen twine for even cooking.
  8. Pour broth into the bottom of a small roasting pan or 9×13-inch baking dish.
  9. Place turkey in pan and roast for 50-60 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 155°F in the thickest part of the breast (start checking at 45 minutes).
  10. Remove from oven, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for 15 minutes (temperature will rise to 165°F).
  11. Slice against the grain into thick pieces and spoon pan juices over the top before serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh herbs if available (1 tablespoon fresh = 1 teaspoon dried). Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy spreading. Do not skip drying the turkey or resting after roasting. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: herb butter roasted turkey breast, turkey for two, small turkey breast, easy turkey recipe, cozy dinner, Thanksgiving for two

Find it online: https://spoonluma.com/cozy-herb-butter-roasted-turkey-breast-for-two-easy-and-perfect/