Lemon Herb Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

When the aroma of roasted turkey fills the kitchen, it instantly brings comfort and anticipation. This Lemon Herb Roasted Turkey Breast is a dish that perfectly captures that cozy, homey feeling we crave during special gatherings or peaceful weekend dinners. It’s the kind of recipe that shines during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you want to make a simple meal feel like a celebration.

Inspired by classic roasted poultry traditions, this recipe brings a refreshing twist with bright lemon zest, fresh herbs, and aromatic garlic, creating a balance of savory richness and light, citrusy freshness. The best part? It’s made with just the turkey breast, so you get juicy, tender meat without the fuss of roasting a whole bird. Whether you’re cooking for two or serving a family feast, this turkey breast delivers the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and elegance.

---

Ingredients

For the Turkey:

• 1 bone-in or boneless turkey breast (about 3 to 4 pounds), thawed if frozen

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For Roasting:

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or turkey broth

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 3–4 sprigs fresh rosemary and thyme

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

---

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a roasting pan with a rack or line a baking dish with foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Turkey
   Pat the turkey breast dry using paper towels. Removing moisture ensures the skin roasts up crispy and golden. Place it skin side up on a clean surface.

3. Make the Lemon Herb Rub
   In a small bowl, combine olive oil (or melted butter), lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until a fragrant paste forms.

4. Season the Turkey
   Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast by running your fingers underneath. Rub half of the herb mixture directly under the skin, spreading it evenly over the meat. Rub the remaining mixture over the top and sides of the turkey.

5. Set Up for Roasting
   Place the turkey breast on the roasting rack or in the baking dish. Arrange lemon slices and herb sprigs around it. Pour broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist during cooking.

6. Roast the Turkey
   Roast uncovered for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size of the breast. Baste every 30–40 minutes with pan juices to enhance flavor and color. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked in the thickest part.

7. Rest the Meat
   Remove the turkey from the oven and loosely tent it with foil. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. This step helps the juices redistribute, keeping every slice tender and flavorful.

8. Serve and Enjoy
   Slice the turkey breast across the grain and arrange on a platter. Drizzle some of the pan juices over the top and garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

---

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours

• Yield: 6 servings

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Herb Roasted Turkey Breast isn’t just a holiday meal—it’s an all-season favorite. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic herbs creates a refreshing, light flavor that works beautifully for spring and summer meals, while still offering the cozy satisfaction you expect from roasted turkey during fall and winter.

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Easy to Prepare: Perfect for home cooks who want big flavor without a complicated process.

• Moist and Flavorful: The lemon-herb rub locks in juiciness and adds layers of freshness.

• Versatile: Ideal for family dinners, holidays, or even meal prep.

• Healthy and Wholesome: High in protein, low in fat, and packed with natural herbs and citrus goodness.

This recipe gives you the same festive feel as a full turkey but with less stress, fewer leftovers, and faster cooking time—making it a true kitchen win.

---

Tips for the Best Roasted Turkey Breast

1. Choose the Right Cut

For this recipe, both bone-in and boneless turkey breasts work well. Bone-in tends to retain more moisture and flavor, while boneless is easier to carve and cooks a bit faster.

2. Don’t Skip Drying the Skin

Patting the turkey dry before seasoning ensures crisp, golden-brown skin. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness—so take the extra minute for this simple step.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer

A thermometer takes out the guesswork. The turkey is perfectly cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Overcooking can dry it out, while undercooking poses food safety risks.

4. Rest Before Slicing

Allowing the turkey to rest helps redistribute juices throughout the meat. Slice too early, and those flavorful juices will spill onto the cutting board instead of staying in the meat.

5. Enhance the Flavor with Broth

Adding broth to the roasting pan prevents the bottom from drying out and creates a light, flavorful jus you can spoon over the slices before serving.

---

What to Serve with Lemon Herb Roasted Turkey Breast

Pair this bright, citrus-herb turkey with sides that complement its refreshing and savory notes. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery with a hint of garlic—perfect for soaking up pan juices.

• Roasted Green Beans or Asparagus: Light and crisp vegetables to balance the meal.

• Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavor beautifully contrasts the lemon and herbs.

• Buttery Dinner Rolls: Ideal for mopping up every drop of delicious sauce.

• Herb-Infused Rice Pilaf: A fresh, fragrant side that complements the turkey’s citrus tones.

Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just want to elevate your Sunday meal, this turkey breast makes an elegant centerpiece.

---

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerating:

Store leftover turkey slices in an airtight container with a little pan juice or broth to keep them moist. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing:

For longer storage, freeze cooked turkey in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Separate the slices with parchment paper for easier thawing and reheating.

Reheating:

Reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C), covered with foil to prevent drying out. Add a splash of broth for extra moisture. Alternatively, microwave on low heat in short bursts with a damp paper towel over the plate.

---

Nutritional Benefits

Turkey breast is a lean source of protein that supports muscle repair and overall energy. It’s naturally low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those seeking a nutritious main course. The lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C, while herbs like rosemary and thyme offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Unlike traditional roasted meats that can feel heavy, this lemon-herb version tastes light, clean, and energizing—proof that healthy food can still taste incredible.

---

Make It Your Own: Variations and Additions

1. Garlic Butter Turkey Breast

Swap the olive oil for melted butter and double the garlic for a rich, comforting flavor.

2. Citrus Herb Turkey Breast

Add orange zest and juice along with the lemon for a sweeter, more aromatic twist.

3. Spicy Lemon Turkey Breast

Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that balances the citrus brightness.

4. Honey Herb Glaze

During the last 20 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey with a mixture of honey, olive oil, and lemon juice for a glossy, lightly sweet finish.

5. Vegetable Bed Roast

Place chopped carrots, onions, and potatoes in the roasting pan under the turkey. They’ll absorb all the drippings and turn into a flavorful side dish.

---

Why This Recipe Works

The secret behind the success of this Lemon Herb Roasted Turkey Breast lies in the balance of technique and flavor. The herb-infused rub penetrates deep into the meat, while the lemon juice tenderizes it and adds brightness. Roasting at the right temperature ensures the outside becomes beautifully golden without drying out the interior.

Unlike complicated recipes that require hours of prep, this one proves that simplicity can be spectacular. The combination of garlic, herbs, and citrus transforms an ordinary turkey breast into something truly memorable—perfect for both casual dinners and festive tables.

---

Serving Inspiration

For a complete, restaurant-style presentation:

1. Arrange the sliced turkey on a large platter.

2. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges.

3. Drizzle lightly with warm pan juices.

4. Serve alongside your favorite holiday sides or light salads.

This dish pairs well with sparkling water, fresh lemonade, or chilled iced tea for a refreshing balance to the roasted richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead?

Absolutely. Boneless turkey breast cooks faster and is easier to slice. Reduce the roasting time slightly and check for doneness around 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on size.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can substitute dried herbs if necessary—use one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For example, replace 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary with 1 teaspoon of dried.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and season the turkey up to 24 hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bring it to room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting.

How do I keep my turkey breast juicy?

Basting every 30 minutes and allowing the turkey to rest before slicing helps maintain its juiciness. The lemon-herb mixture and added broth also prevent dryness.

Print