Foolproof Turkey Breast Recipe

Name: Foolproof Turkey Breast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 (14 to 16-pound) fresh turkey; Brine, recipe follows; 1 tablespoon dry rubbed sage; 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic; 1/2 teaspoon granulated onion; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 lemon, zested; 1 tablespoon canola oil; 6 quarts water; 8 cups ice cubes; 1 cup kosher salt; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 7 fresh sage leaves; 1 tablespoons black peppercorns

Servings: persons

1 (14 to 16-pound) fresh turkey
Brine, recipe follows
1 tablespoon dry rubbed sage
1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
1/2 teaspoon granulated onion
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon thyme
1 lemon, zested
1 tablespoon canola oil
6 quarts water
8 cups ice cubes
1 cup kosher salt
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
7 fresh sage leaves
1 tablespoons black peppercorns

1
Remove the legs and wings from the turkey, or have your butcher do it.
2
Reserve for stock.
3
Put turkey breast into a large pot or doubled up clean plastic bag.
4
When brine mixture is completely cooled, pour over turkey and place in refrigerator for 12 hours.
5
Rinse under clear cool water for 5 minutes, drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
6
In a small bowl, combine dried spices and lemon zest.
7
Rub turkey with canola oil, lightly sprinkle rub on turkey, any extra rub can be placeed in cavity.
8
Cover loosely, refrigerate for 4 hours.
9
Remove from refrigerator and let rest on counter for 15 minutes
10
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F while turkey is resting.
11
In a large, deep baking pan, fitted with a rack, place turkey breast side down and roast for 35 minutes.
12
Carefully turn turkey over and reduce heat to 375 degrees F. Continue to roast turkey for 1 hour 45 minutes or until temperature at the deepest part of the breast reads 170 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer.
13
Make sure to check bird every 15 minutes after first hour has passed.
14
Take out of oven, loosely tent with foil, let rest in pan for 10 minutes.
15
Carve and serve immediately.
16
In a large stock pot, combine 3 quarts water, 1 cup kosher salt, brown sugar, molasses, sage leaves and peppercorns.
17
Heat until salt dissolves, remove from heat.
18
Add in 3 quarts cool water and 8 cups ice.
19
Yield: brine for 1 turkey breast (10 pounds)

165

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 18 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 (14 to 16-pound) fresh turkey, Brine, recipe follows, 1 tablespoon dry rubbed sage, 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic, and more.

Yes, Foolproof Turkey Breast falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Foolproof Turkey Breast

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions