Tender Marinated Turkey Breast Recipe

Juicy Citrus-Infused Turkey Breast Recipe for Family Feasts

Tender, juicy turkey breast marinated in a blend of herbs and spices promises a mouthwatering dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This marinated turkey breast recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen.

The secret lies in a carefully crafted marinade that infuses every slice with incredible taste.

Herbs like rosemary and thyme dance with garlic and lemon, creating a symphony of flavors that make this dish irresistible.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of moisture and seasoning that will impress even the pickiest eaters.

Simple ingredients and straightforward techniques make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Get ready to serve a turkey breast so delicious, it might just become your new go-to main course.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 21 minutes

Calories: 407 kcal

Servings: 7

Succulent Marinated Turkey Breast Ingredients

For Marinade Components:
  • Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and creates a silky texture for even coating.
  • Red Wine Vinegar: Adds tangy brightness and helps tenderize the meat.
  • Garlic: Provides robust, aromatic depth and enhances overall flavor profile.
  • Fresh Rosemary, Thyme: Infuses herbal, woodsy notes that complement poultry perfectly.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and drawing out natural meat flavors.
For Protein:
  • Turkey Breast: Select a fresh, high-quality cut with minimal visible fat for optimal tenderness.
For Garnish:
  • Fresh Rosemary Twigs: Adds visual appeal and subtle herbal fragrance to the final presentation.

Tools for Turkey Breast Marination

  • Large Bowl: Perfect for mixing marinade ingredients thoroughly.
  • Ziplock Bag: Ideal alternative to bowl for marinating, helps coat turkey evenly.
  • Deep Baking Dish: Ensures turkey fits comfortably and catches marinade and juices.
  • Meat Thermometer: Critical for checking internal temperature for safe cooking.
  • Basting Brush: Helps spread juices over turkey to keep it moist and golden.
  • Sharp Carving Knife: Essential for slicing turkey neatly after roasting.
  • Cutting Board: Provides stable surface for carving and serving turkey.
  • Measuring Cups/Spoons: Needed for accurate marinade ingredient measurements.

How to Cook Marinated Turkey Breast

  • Flavor Fusion

Create a delectable marinade blending herbs, spices, and zesty liquids that will transform an ordinary turkey breast into a mouthwatering centerpiece. Choose ingredients that complement each other and enhance the natural turkey flavor.

  • Marination Magic

Submerge the turkey breast completely in the marinade, ensuring every nook and cranny gets coated. Seal tightly in a container or bag, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply overnight in the refrigerator.

  • Oven Preparation

Position the turkey in a roomy baking dish, carefully pouring the marinade around it. Place in a preheated oven at a gentle temperature to promote even cooking and tender results.

  • Moisture Management

Monitor the turkey during roasting, occasionally basting to keep the meat succulent. Watch for a beautiful golden exterior that signals perfect doneness.

  • Resting and Serving

After removing from the oven, let the turkey rest briefly. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice remains incredibly juicy. Carve with care and drizzle with pan juices for an extra flavor boost.

Marinating and Cooking Tips for Juicy Turkey

  • Add a kick of heat by incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños into the marinade for those who enjoy a spicy twist.
  • Prepare the turkey breast a day in advance and store it in the marinade, allowing the flavors to intensify and tenderize the meat even more.
  • Transform remaining turkey into delicious sandwiches, salads, or shred for tacos by storing in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Serving Succulent Turkey Breast with Flair

  • Serve with Herbal Zest: Sprinkle fresh rosemary and thyme over the sliced turkey to enhance its aromatic profile and add a pop of green color.
  • Pair with Vibrant Sides: Complement the turkey with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes for a hearty and colorful plate.
  • Create a Festive Gravy Moment: Drizzle the flavorful pan juices over the carved turkey and sides, turning each bite into a delicious, moisture-rich experience.
  • Present on Elegant Platter: Arrange the sliced turkey on a large wooden board or ceramic platter, garnishing with fresh herb sprigs for a rustic, inviting presentation.

Storage Instructions for Turkey Breast

  • Refrigerate Wisely: Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and maintain optimal flavor.
  • Freeze for Future Meals: Slice or shred turkey and place in freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and contents. Frozen turkey stays delicious for up to 3 months, perfect for quick meal prep.
  • Reheat with Care: Warm refrigerated turkey gently in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165F to ensure food safety and juicy texture.
  • Pack Lunch Perfection: Transform leftover turkey into delightful sandwiches, salads, or wraps. Slice thinly and store separately from wet ingredients to keep bread from getting soggy. Enjoy a gourmet lunch in minutes!
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Tender Marinated Turkey Breast Recipe

Tender Marinated Turkey Breast Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 21 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Succulent Greek-style marinated turkey breast celebrates Mediterranean flavors with a perfect blend of herbs and citrus. Zesty marinade infuses tender meat, creating a delightful dish you’ll crave for weeknight dinners and special gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 turkey breast (bone-in or boneless, skin-on, about 22 ½ lbs / 0.91.1 kg)
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 rosemary twigs (3 for garnish, 3 whole)
  • ½ cup (170 g) honey or maple syrup
  • ½ cup (120 ml) low sodium soy sauce
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) sesame oil
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 4 tsps kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Marinade Preparation: Combine all marinade components in a large bowl or resealable bag, whisking vigorously to create a harmonious flavor blend.
  2. Turkey Immersion: Submerge turkey breast completely in the marinade, ensuring thorough coverage. Squeeze out excess air if using a bag, then seal tightly.
  3. Flavor Infusion: Marinate in refrigerator for 12-24 hours, allowing ingredients to permeate the meat’s fibers. Skip marinating if time is limited.
  4. Oven Preheation: Warm oven to 325°F (163°C), positioning rack centrally to ensure even heat distribution.
  5. Roasting Preparation: Place marinated turkey in a deep ceramic or glass baking dish, pouring remaining marinade around the meat to maintain moisture.
  6. Cooking Process: Roast uncovered for 1-1½ hours, periodically basting every 20 minutes with pan juices to enhance flavor and prevent drying. Target internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  7. Final Browning: Activate broiler on high for 2-3 minutes to create a golden, crisp exterior that adds visual appeal and textural contrast.
  8. Resting Phase: Remove from oven and let turkey rest 5-7 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensure optimal tenderness.
  9. Serving: Slice against the grain and arrange on a serving platter. Drizzle with pan juices and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Marinate Thoroughly: Ensure complete turkey breast coverage by massaging marinade deeply into every surface, maximizing flavor absorption.
  • Temperature Precision: Use a reliable meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches exactly 160°F, preventing dryness while ensuring food safety.
  • Resting is Crucial: Allowing turkey to rest after roasting redistributes internal juices, guaranteeing each slice remains incredibly tender and moist.
  • Basting Technique: Regular 20-minute basting creates a luxurious golden exterior and prevents meat from becoming dry during roasting process.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 407
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 1375 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 98 mg
Michael Rivera

Michael Rivera

Co-Founder & Culinary Instructor

Expertise

  • Classic French Cuisine
  • Artisanal Bread Baking
  • Plant-Based Culinary Innovation
  • Recipe & Menu Development
  • Interactive Online Instruction

Education

The French Culinary Institute (now part of the International Culinary Center)

  • Program: Classic Culinary Arts
  • Focus: An intensive curriculum rooted in classical French techniques, artisanal bread production, and contemporary culinary methods.

Michael Rivera is a seasoned chef and culinary instructor based in San Francisco, CA. Trained in Classic Culinary Arts at The French Culinary Institute, he refined his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens, mastering classic French techniques and artisanal bread baking. 

Passionate about making gourmet methods accessible, Michael co-founded thatsmyhome.com to share his expertise through interactive online lessons and innovative, plant-based recipes. He loves blending traditional techniques with modern ideas, encouraging home cooks to enjoy the art of cooking in a relaxed, fun environment.

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