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Garlic Butter Turkey Breast in the Oven

Garlic butter turkey breast in the oven roasts with a savory garlic-herb butter under crisping skin. The bone-in breast rests before carving for tender, juicy slices.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Resting time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 turkey breast 4- to 5-pound, bone-in, skin-on, thawed
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch roasting pan

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven to 350°F and set a rack in a 9x13-inch roasting pan.
  2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
  3. Stir together the softened butter, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Carefully loosen the skin over the breast and spread about half of the garlic butter underneath.
  5. Rub the remaining garlic butter over the skin.
  6. Set the turkey breast skin-side up on the rack and roast for 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 hours, tenting loosely with foil if the skin browns too quickly.
  7. Check for doneness with a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast without touching bone; it is done when it reads 165°F.
  8. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Notes

For the most reliable doneness, check the thickest part of the breast without touching bone. Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days or freeze them; for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter substitute.