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Perfect Herb Butter Turkey Breast for Two – Easy Cozy Dinner

herb butter turkey breast for two - featured image

This herb butter turkey breast for two is a cozy, flavorful dinner that brings back memories of home. With a simple herb butter rubbed under the skin, it stays moist and delicious, perfect for a quiet night or a small Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 2 to 2.5 pounds / 900g to 1.1 kg)
  • 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ¾ teaspoon table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup (120ml) chicken or turkey broth (low-sodium recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mash together with a fork until evenly mixed.
  3. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
  4. Gently slide your fingers under the skin of the turkey breast to loosen it, being careful not to tear it.
  5. Spread about three-quarters of the herb butter directly onto the meat under the loosened skin. Use your fingers to push it around so it covers as much surface area as possible.
  6. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the turkey skin, including the sides and underside.
  7. Drizzle the olive oil over the skin and spread it evenly with your hands or a brush.
  8. Place the turkey breast in a small roasting pan or baking dish, skin side up. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan (not over the turkey).
  9. Roast for 55–70 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the turkey rest for 15–20 minutes, loosely covered with foil.
  11. Carve the turkey breast against the grain into thick slices. Spoon some of the pan juices over the top and serve.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the skin for crispy results. Let the butter soften properly for easy mixing. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness. If the skin browns too fast, tent with foil. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: herb butter turkey breast, turkey for two, small turkey breast, easy turkey recipe, cozy dinner, Thanksgiving for two