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Perfect Herb Butter Turkey Breast Recipe with Easy Rich Pan Gravy

herb butter turkey breast - featured image

A juicy and flavorful turkey breast rubbed with herb butter and served with a rich, homemade pan gravy. Perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds skin-on, boneless turkey breast
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken or turkey stock
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until fully blended.
  3. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  4. Gently loosen the skin starting at the thicker end to create a pocket without tearing.
  5. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter evenly under the skin, coating the meat.
  6. Rub the remaining herb butter on the skin surface.
  7. Place the turkey breast skin-side up on a roasting rack in a pan and drizzle olive oil over the skin.
  8. Roast in the oven for 50-60 minutes, checking with a meat thermometer; turkey is done at 160°F (71°C) internal temperature.
  9. Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil; let rest for 15 minutes.
  10. While resting, place the roasting pan on stovetop over medium heat and pour off excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons with drippings.
  11. Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for about 2 minutes to remove raw taste.
  12. Slowly add 2 cups stock while whisking to avoid lumps; simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  13. Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream (optional) for silkier gravy; season with salt and pepper to taste.
  14. Carve turkey breast against the grain into thick slices and serve immediately with warm pan gravy.

Notes

Gently massage herb butter under the skin to lock in moisture. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let the turkey rest after roasting for juicy slices. For gluten-free gravy, substitute flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. For dairy-free, use olive oil or vegan butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, herb butter, pan gravy, roasted turkey, holiday recipe, easy turkey, Thanksgiving, dinner