Succulent Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast And Stuffing Recipe

Juicy Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast and Stuffing Recipe Magic

Golden autumn afternoons call for a delectable herb-roasted turkey breast that brings warmth to your kitchen.

Tender, juicy meat seasoned with aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering centerpiece for any gathering.

Each slice promises rich, savory flavors that dance across your palate with incredible depth.

Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage infuse the meat with robust, earthy undertones that complement the succulent protein perfectly.

The accompanying stuffing adds a comforting layer of texture and traditional goodness to this classic dish.

Preparing this recipe transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Gather your ingredients and let’s embark on a delicious cooking adventure that celebrates seasonal cooking at its finest.

How to Cook Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast

  • Preheat Oven

Get your oven ready at 350F. Grab a roasting pan and prepare it with a light grease or parchment paper.

  • Season the Bird

Whip up a flavor-packed herb blend using olive oil, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper. Massage this delicious mixture all over the turkey breast. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and tuck the lemon halves inside for an extra burst of flavor.

  • Roast to Perfection

Place the turkey breast in the pan, skin facing up. Pour some chicken broth at the bottom for extra moisture. Slide into the oven and roast for about 1.5-2 hours. Keep an eye on the internal temperature – you’re aiming for 165F. Every half hour, drizzle those tasty pan juices over the turkey to keep it juicy.

  • Create Savory Stuffing

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions, celery, and carrots until they’re soft and fragrant. In a big bowl, mix the sautéed veggies with bread cubes and herbs. Add chicken broth gradually, stirring until the mixture is moist. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.

  • Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Want a crispy top? Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes.

  • Serve and Delight

Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes after cooking. Slice and serve alongside the stuffing. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a beautiful finish.

Tips for Perfect Turkey and Stuffing Combo

  • Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches exactly 165F (74C) for safe, juicy meat without overcooking.
  • Let herb mixture sit on turkey for 30 minutes before roasting to enhance deeper flavor penetration and more aromatic results.
  • Cover turkey with foil during initial roasting to prevent skin from burning and lock in natural juices, removing foil in final 30 minutes for golden-brown skin.
  • Replace traditional bread cubes with gluten-free bread or quinoa for stuffing to accommodate wheat sensitivities.
  • Use salt-free herbs, reduced-sodium chicken broth, and minimal added salt for heart-healthy meal preparation.
  • Swap rosemary and thyme with oregano and add lemon zest for a Greek-inspired herb profile.
  • Incorporate chipotle powder, cumin, and smoked paprika into herb mixture for a bold, smoky flavor experience.

Serving the Turkey and Stuffing Duo Right

  • Festive Family Gathering: Create a warm holiday atmosphere by serving the turkey breast on a large wooden platter surrounded by fresh rosemary sprigs and cranberry sauce. Invite family members to carve and share the meal together.
  • Wine and Dine Pairing: Complement the herb-roasted turkey with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir. These wines enhance the herbal flavors and provide a sophisticated dining experience.
  • Leftover: Transform remaining turkey and stuffing into delicious next-day sandwiches. Layer sliced turkey on crusty bread with a spread of herb mayo and stuffing, creating a mouthwatering lunch option that extends the meal's enjoyment.
  • Elegant Side Recommendations: Serve the turkey breast with roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, or honey-glazed carrots. These colorful sides add nutritional value and visual appeal to the main dish.

Turkey Breast Meal Storage Made Simple

  • Store leftover turkey and stuffing separately in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Refrigerated items remain tasty for 3-4 days when sealed properly.
  • Slice turkey breast into portions before freezing. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Frozen turkey maintains quality for 4-6 months. Stuffing freezes well for up to 1 month when placed in freezer-safe containers.
  • Warm turkey slices in microwave with a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness. Reheat stuffing in oven at 350F for crispy texture, adding a little extra broth to maintain moisture.
  • Repurpose leftover turkey into sandwiches, salads, or quick casseroles. Stuffing works wonderfully as a side dish or can be mixed with scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast option.

FAQs

  • How do I know when the turkey breast is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C) at the thickest part of the breast. This ensures the turkey is safe to eat and remains juicy.

  • Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.

  • What type of bread works best for stuffing?

Day-old or slightly stale bread works best. Rustic white bread, sourdough, or challah are excellent choices. The slightly dry bread absorbs the broth and seasonings more effectively, creating a more flavorful stuffing.

  • How can I prevent the turkey from drying out?

Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with pan juices, use the herb-oil mixture to coat the breast, and avoid overcooking. Letting the turkey rest for 10 minutes after cooking helps retain moisture.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 9

What You’ll Need for Turkey and Stuffing

For Poultry Seasoning:
  • Turkey Breast: Succulent cut perfect for roasting, choose a fresh, high-quality piece with minimal discoloration.
  • Olive Oil: Helps herbs adhere and creates golden, crispy skin.
  • Rosemary: Aromatic herb that adds earthy pine-like flavor to turkey.
  • Thyme: Delicate herb with subtle minty undertones.
  • Sage: Classic poultry herb providing warmth and depth.
  • Garlic: Intensifies savory notes and enhances overall richness.
  • Lemon: Brightens flavor and helps tenderize meat.
For Vegetable Base:
  • Onion: Provides sweet, foundational flavor for stuffing.
  • Celery: Adds crisp texture and subtle peppery notes.
  • Carrot: Introduces gentle sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Butter: Creates rich, smooth base for sautéing vegetables.
For Stuffing Components:
  • Bread Cubes: Absorbs flavors and creates hearty texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Moistens stuffing and adds depth.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning for balanced taste.
  • Parsley: Fresh herb that brings brightness and color.

Tools for Roasting Turkey with Savory Stuffing

  • Roasting Pan: Large, deep pan for cooking turkey and catching juices.
  • Large Skillet: For sautéing vegetables with butter.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: To combine stuffing ingredients and mix thoroughly.
  • Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
  • Sharp Knife: To dice vegetables and slice turkey.
  • Measuring Cups/Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Baking Dish: To bake the stuffing with a crispy top.
  • Foil: To cover stuffing during initial baking.
  • Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking turkey's internal temperature.
  • Small Bowl: For mixing herb seasoning.
Print
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Succulent Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast And Stuffing Recipe

Succulent Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast And Stuffing Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Succulent herb-roasted turkey breast with classic stuffing delights family gatherings. Tender, aromatic herbs and savory bread cubes create a comforting meal you’ll savor with loved ones.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in turkey breast (5 to 7 pounds / 2.27 to 3.18 kilograms)
  • 4 tbsps (60 ml) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) olive oil
  • 8 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or Italian bread)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) unsalted butter
  • 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 medium onion, quartered
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tsps chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 2 tsps chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsps chopped fresh sage
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tsps kosher salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 lemon, zested and quartered
  • Fresh herb sprigs (rosemary, thyme, sage) for cavity

Instructions

  1. Herb Infusion: Whisk olive oil with rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create a robust seasoning blend.
  2. Turkey Preparation: Thoroughly massage the herb mixture across the turkey breast, ensuring complete coverage, then drizzle fresh lemon juice over the surface and tuck lemon halves into the cavity to amplify aromatic depth.
  3. Roasting Setup: Arrange the turkey breast skin-side up in a parchment-lined roasting pan, creating a shallow chicken broth base to maintain consistent moisture during cooking.
  4. Oven Roasting: Position the pan in a preheated 350F (175C) oven, roasting for 1.5 to 2 hours, intermittently basting with pan juices to enhance flavor and prevent drying.
  5. Doneness Check: Confirm the turkey’s internal temperature reaches 165F (74C) using a meat thermometer to ensure safe and perfect cooking.
  6. Stuffing Creation: Sauté diced onions, celery, and grated carrots in melted butter until translucent, then combine with cubed bread, sage, thyme, and parsley in a large mixing bowl.
  7. Stuffing Preparation: Gradually add chicken broth to the vegetable-bread mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper, and stirring to achieve a moist, cohesive texture.
  8. Baking Stuffing: Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish, initially covering with foil, then bake alongside the turkey for 25-30 minutes, uncovering the final 10 minutes to develop a golden, crisp top.
  9. Resting and Serving: Allow the turkey to rest for 10 minutes after roasting, then slice and plate with the freshly baked stuffing, garnishing with additional fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Notes

  • Herb Massage Technique: Thoroughly rub herb mixture under the skin and all over the turkey breast to maximize flavor penetration and ensure even seasoning.
  • Moisture Preservation Trick: Always place chicken broth at the bottom of the roasting pan to create steamy environment, preventing turkey from drying out during long roasting process.
  • Temperature Precision: Use a reliable meat thermometer to check internal temperature; 165F is critical for food safety without overcooking the meat.
  • Stuffing Consistency Control: Mix bread cubes gradually with broth, stopping when mixture reaches moist but not soggy texture to prevent dense, heavy stuffing.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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