Honey Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

There’s something undeniably special about a beautifully roasted turkey breast coated in a sweet, golden honey glaze. It’s the kind of dish that makes any dinner feel like a celebration—whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a quiet weekend gathering. The tender meat, paired with that caramelized outer layer, creates a balance of savory and sweet that feels both comforting and elegant.

This Honey Glazed Turkey Breast was inspired by the simple joy of family gatherings—when the aroma of roasted turkey fills the air, laughter flows easily, and every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s a recipe that brings people together without the stress of cooking an entire turkey. Perfect for smaller celebrations or a special Sunday dinner, this recipe proves that you don’t need a holiday to enjoy a show-stopping meal.

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Ingredients

For the Turkey:

• 1 whole turkey breast (3–4 pounds), bone-in or boneless

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Honey Glaze:

• ½ cup honey

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon ground thyme

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley

• Orange or lemon slices for presentation

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Directions

1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a roasting pan by lining it with foil and placing a roasting rack inside. This will help the turkey cook evenly and allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully.

2. Prepare the turkey
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step is important because removing moisture ensures that the skin crisps up perfectly during roasting. Rub olive oil all over the turkey breast, then season it generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

3. Make the honey glaze
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, Dijon mustard, melted butter, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar (if using), garlic powder, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Glaze and roast
Place the turkey breast on the prepared roasting rack. Brush it generously with half of the honey glaze, making sure to coat the top and sides. Reserve the remaining glaze for later. Roast uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

5. Baste and finish roasting
After 45 minutes, remove the turkey from the oven and brush on the remaining glaze. Return it to the oven and continue roasting for another 30–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

6. Rest before slicing
Once fully cooked, transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

7. Serve and enjoy
Slice the turkey breast against the grain into thick, juicy slices. Arrange it on a platter, drizzle a bit of extra glaze over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs and citrus slices for a stunning presentation.

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 45 minutes

Yield

6 servings

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Why You’ll Love This Honey Glazed Turkey Breast

This dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The honey glaze forms a glossy, caramelized crust that locks in the juices, while the herbs and spices infuse the meat with deep, aromatic flavor. It’s a recipe that feels special enough for holidays but easy enough for a regular weeknight.

• Perfect for small gatherings: No need to roast a whole turkey—this recipe is ideal for smaller families or intimate dinners.

• Beautiful presentation: The golden glaze and fresh herbs make this turkey breast look like it came straight out of a gourmet kitchen.

• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance, saving time on the day of serving.

• Leftovers taste amazing: Use leftover slices in sandwiches, wraps, or salads for quick, delicious meals.

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Tips for the Best Honey Glazed Turkey Breast

1. Use a meat thermometer.
It’s the best way to ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked. The ideal internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).

2. Don’t skip resting time.
Allowing the turkey to rest after roasting helps retain its juices. If you slice it too soon, the juices will run out, leaving the meat dry.

3. Glaze at the right time.
If you apply the glaze too early, the sugars might burn. Add the final coat during the last 30–45 minutes for a perfectly caramelized finish.

4. Use bone-in turkey breast for more flavor.
Bone-in cuts tend to stay juicier and more flavorful compared to boneless ones.

5. Add a touch of citrus.
For a subtle brightness, mix a bit of orange zest or juice into the glaze. It pairs beautifully with the honey and thyme.

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Serving Suggestions

A Honey Glazed Turkey Breast pairs wonderfully with an array of side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavor. Here are a few favorites:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic to balance the sweetness of the glaze.

• Green Bean Almondine: Light and crisp green beans sautéed with almonds and butter add freshness and crunch.

• Sweet Potato Casserole: A classic holiday side with just the right amount of sweetness.

• Roasted Carrots and Parsnips: Their natural sweetness enhances the honey glaze.

• Herb Stuffing or Savory Rice Pilaf: Adds heartiness and soaks up the turkey’s juices perfectly.

For a lighter option, pair the turkey with a fresh spinach salad or citrus kale salad to cut through the richness of the glaze.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To make ahead:
You can prepare the honey glaze up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Before using, warm it slightly to make it easier to brush onto the turkey.

To store leftovers:
Refrigerate leftover turkey slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The glaze helps keep the meat moist even after reheating.

To freeze:
Wrap turkey slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a covered dish at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.

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How to Reheat Without Drying Out

Reheating turkey can sometimes make it dry, but these methods will keep it tender:

• Oven method: Place slices in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F until hot.

• Stovetop method: Reheat slices in a covered skillet with a bit of butter or broth over medium-low heat.

• Microwave method: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, add a few drops of water, and cover loosely. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

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Variations to Try

This honey glaze is versatile and easy to customize depending on your flavor preferences.

• Maple Honey Glazed Turkey: Replace half the honey with pure maple syrup for a richer, more earthy sweetness.

• Garlic Herb Glazed Turkey: Add minced garlic and chopped rosemary to the glaze for a more savory, aromatic version.

• Spicy Honey Turkey: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a gentle heat that complements the sweetness.

• Citrus Honey Glaze: Stir in orange zest or lemon juice for a bright, tangy twist.

Each variation brings a new layer of flavor while keeping the base recipe simple and delicious.

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Health Benefits of Turkey Breast

Turkey breast is one of the leanest sources of protein, making it a great choice for healthy eating. It’s low in fat, rich in B vitamins, and packed with minerals like selenium and zinc that support immune health. Using honey as a natural sweetener adds antioxidants and flavor without the need for refined sugars.

This recipe lets you enjoy a nutrient-rich meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying—proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland.