Oven Roasted Turkey Breast: Juicy, Easy & Flavor-Packed

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the table—because, let’s be honest, nothing smells quite like a turkey roasting in the oven. It’s juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned with a buttery garlic blend that makes every bite feel like the holidays, even on an ordinary Sunday.

Whether you’re planning a smaller Thanksgiving meal or just craving that classic turkey flavor without cooking a whole bird, this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast delivers every time. With simple prep, minimal cleanup, and a flavor payoff that feels gourmet, this recipe is all about making home cooking feel easy and special at once.

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What is Oven Roasted Turkey Breast?

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is a lean, flavorful cut of turkey roasted until the skin turns golden brown and the inside stays juicy and tender. Unlike a full turkey, which can take hours to roast and carve, the breast cooks faster and fits easily in a standard oven pan. It’s the perfect choice for smaller gatherings or weeknight dinners when you still want something impressive without spending all day in the kitchen.

This version uses bone-in turkey breast with skin on, which keeps the meat extra moist. The butter and herb mixture—packed with garlic, thyme, and paprika—infuses the turkey with warm, savory notes. It’s comfort food that feels wholesome and hearty, ideal for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners.

Reasons to Try Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

First, let’s talk about flavor—this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is all about that buttery, herb-kissed goodness that hits just right every single time. Second, it’s a total time-saver. No need to wrestle a 20-pound bird or stress over uneven cooking; this smaller cut roasts beautifully in a couple of hours. And third, leftovers (if there are any) are a gift.

Think turkey sandwiches, soups, or casseroles for days. It’s also a healthier choice, being lower in fat than dark meat while still offering tons of protein. If you’re someone who likes simple, reliable recipes that deliver big on comfort, this dish is your new best friend. Plus, it pairs perfectly with classics like Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese or Easy Glazed Carrots.

Ingredients Needed to Make Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

• 9 lb Bone-In Turkey Breast (Skin On)
• 1 Large Onion, peeled and sliced
• 4 Tbsp Butter, melted
• 2 tsp Minced Garlic
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme Leaves
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Pepper

Instructions to Make Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Let’s walk through this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast step by step so you can feel confident from the first brush of butter to that final juicy slice. Whether you’re cooking for Thanksgiving or just craving that comforting roasted flavor on a Sunday, this guide will help you pull it off with ease—and a little flair.

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey and Pan

To start this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast step by step process, preheat your oven to 350°F. Temperature matters here—too high and your turkey dries out; too low and you’ll be waiting all day. While the oven heats, set your bone-in turkey breast on the counter for about 30 minutes to come to room temperature. This little pause helps the meat cook evenly, keeping it juicy from edge to center.

Place the turkey, skin side up, on a roasting rack inside a large pan. If you don’t have a roasting pan, a lightly greased 9×13 baking dish works fine. The goal is to keep the meat elevated so the air can circulate and crisp the skin. For extra flavor, layer the bottom with sliced onions—they’ll caramelize as the turkey roasts and infuse it with natural sweetness.

(If you’re into prepping sides alongside, check out Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes for the perfect complement.)

Step 2: Mix Up the Butter and Seasoning Blend

This step adds that signature buttery garlic magic. Melt your butter in a small bowl, then mix in minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. You’ll instantly smell the rich, savory aroma that sets the stage for a show-stopping roast.

For extra depth, try swapping thyme for rosemary or sage, especially if you love a woodsy, holiday-style flavor. If you want more guidance on herb swaps, visit our Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing recipe—it shares some great flavor-pairing insights that work here, too.

Step 3: Coat the Turkey (a.k.a. Flavor Infusion Time)

Now comes the fun part—brushing that buttery seasoning mix over every inch of the turkey. Using a basting brush, generously coat the top, sides, and even gently lift the skin to rub some butter directly onto the meat. That’s your golden ticket to flavor heaven and crispy, irresistible skin.

This Oven Roasted Turkey Breast step by step moment is where the transformation begins. Don’t rush it—think of this as your chance to give the turkey a mini spa treatment. The butter seals in moisture while the paprika adds color, and that thyme-garlic combo brings out classic roasted turkey aromas that’ll fill your kitchen in minutes.

Step 4: Roast Step by Step Until Golden and Juicy

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and let the magic happen. Roast for 13–15 minutes per pound, which comes to about 2 hours for a 9-pound turkey breast. This is where patience pays off. To keep it perfectly moist, baste the turkey halfway through by spooning the melted butter from the pan back over the top.

As you follow this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast step by step, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should hit 160°F in the thickest part. This is non-negotiable for juicy, safe-to-eat turkey. If you’re new to using thermometers, the Food Safety Temperature Guide explains why this step matters.

Tip: If the skin starts browning too fast, loosely cover it with foil during the last 30 minutes of roasting.

Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Serve

When your turkey breast reaches perfection, carefully remove it from the oven. Tent it with foil and let it rest for at least 5–10 minutes. This short rest lets the juices redistribute, making each slice tender instead of dry.

Slice against the grain for the most tender bites, and don’t forget to save the pan drippings—they make a quick, rich gravy. Pair your beautifully roasted turkey with sides like Easy Glazed Carrots or Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Delight for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.

Now that you’ve mastered this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast step by step, you can confidently say goodbye to dry turkey forever. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a casual Sunday feast, this method guarantees golden skin, juicy meat, and a flavor that feels like home.

What to Serve with Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

If you’re aiming for that full holiday vibe, pair this Oven Roasted Turkey Breast with buttery Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving, or Classic Green Bean Casserole. For something lighter, a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts work beautifully too. And let’s not forget dessert—finish the meal with No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake or a cozy slice of Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars.

Key Tips for Making Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

• Bring it to room temp: Let the turkey sit out for about 30 minutes before roasting for even cooking.
• Don’t skip the butter mix: It’s what gives the turkey that golden, flavorful crust.
• Check temperature early: Ovens vary, so start checking the internal temp around the 1 hour 45-minute mark.
• Let it rest: Seriously—don’t skip this. Resting keeps the meat juicy.
• Save those drippings: They make a quick, rich gravy in no time.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover slices with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through—about 10–15 minutes. Microwaving works too, just add a splash of broth to keep things moist. If you’ve got a lot left, turn them into Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Casserole or Turkey and Dumplings Soup for an easy next-day meal. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this with boneless turkey breast?
A: Absolutely! Just reduce the cooking time slightly since boneless cooks faster.
Q: How do I keep my turkey breast from drying out?
A: Butter, foil tenting, and resting time are your secret weapons.
Q: Can I prep it ahead of time?
A: Yep! You can season it the night before, cover, and refrigerate until ready to roast.

Final Thoughts

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is a classic for a reason—it’s simple, satisfying, and makes any meal feel special. With its juicy interior and crispy, golden skin, it’s the perfect balance of flavor and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday crowd or just your family on a quiet weekend, this recipe brings warmth and comfort to the table every single time. For more cozy recipes, check out Healthy Turkey Rice Soup or Turkey Corn Chowder—they’re terrific ways to keep the holiday spirit (and leftovers) going strong.

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