This Herb Roasted Split Turkey Breast is a flavorful and foolproof option for any occasion—from intimate holiday dinners to effortless weekend roasts. Juicy, tender meat beneath a golden, herb-crusted skin makes for an impressive centerpiece with minimal prep. Fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil come together to infuse every bite with rustic charm and savory depth—no brining, basting, or fuss required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for an easier, smaller-scale alternative to a whole turkey, this recipe delivers big flavor with streamlined simplicity. The split turkey breast cooks faster and more evenly than a whole bird while still offering the satisfying texture and presentation you expect from a roast. With fresh herbs and pantry seasonings, you can create a meal that feels both comforting and elevated—perfect for weeknight meals, small Thanksgiving gatherings, or Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- split turkey breast (bone-in, skin-on, about 3–4 lbs)
- olive oil
- garlic, minced
- fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- fresh thyme leaves
- fresh parsley, chopped
- onion powder
- paprika
- salt
- black pepper
- optional: lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish
Directions
Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breast thoroughly dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp during roasting.
Make Herb Rub:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until it forms a thick, fragrant paste.
Season the Turkey:
Gently lift the skin of the turkey breast and rub some of the herb mixture underneath. Then rub the remaining mixture generously over the top and sides of the skin.
Roast:
Place the turkey breast skin-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast uncovered for 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the size of the breast, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes to retain juices. Slice and serve garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
Servings and timing
Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Citrus Herb Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the herb rub for a brighter flavor.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the rub for subtle heat.
- Garlic Butter Upgrade: Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer finish.
- Stuffing Base: Roast over a bed of chopped onions, carrots, and celery for built-in pan juices and flavor.
- Dry Rub Shortcut: Use a high-quality pre-mixed poultry seasoning if you’re low on fresh herbs.
storage/reheating
Storage: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Slices can be frozen in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to keep moist.
FAQs
What is a split turkey breast?
It’s half of a whole turkey breast (typically bone-in and skin-on), ideal for smaller portions or quicker cooking.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, use one-third the amount of each herb if using dried in place of fresh.
Do I need to brine the turkey breast?
No brining is required—olive oil and fresh herbs provide moisture and flavor.
Should I cover the turkey while roasting?
No. Roasting uncovered allows the skin to crisp up. Tent with foil if it browns too quickly.
How do I keep it from drying out?
Do not overcook. Use a meat thermometer and let the turkey rest before slicing to retain moisture.
Can I roast vegetables with the turkey?
Yes, place carrots, onions, and potatoes under the rack or directly around the turkey.
Can I use boneless turkey breast?
Yes, but reduce cooking time by about 15–20 minutes depending on size.
What should I serve with this turkey?
Try mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stuffing, or a crisp fall salad.
Can I cook it in an air fryer?
For smaller portions, yes—adjust the temperature to 350°F and cook for 35–45 minutes, checking internal temperature.
How do I get extra crispy skin?
Ensure the skin is dry before seasoning and roast uncovered. Broil for the last 2–3 minutes if needed, but watch closely.
Conclusion
This Herb Roasted Split Turkey Breast is the perfect solution for an effortless yet elegant meal. Juicy, flavorful, and beautifully seasoned, it’s a versatile main that suits holiday tables, family dinners, and everything in between. With fresh herbs, simple prep, and crisp skin guaranteed, this recipe brings ease and excellence to your roast turkey game—without the hassle of cooking a whole bird.
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Herb Roasted Split Turkey Breast
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Herb Roasted Split Turkey Breast is an easy and flavorful turkey recipe featuring garlic, fresh herbs, and a golden crispy skin. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinners, or small gatherings, it’s a juicy, no-brine roast that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
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1 split turkey breast (bone-in, skin-on, about 3-4 lbs)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
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1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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Optional: lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels for crispier skin.
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In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
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Place turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan, skin-side up.
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Roast uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
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Remove from oven and rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, if desired.
Notes
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Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
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For a citrusy twist, add lemon zest to the herb rub.
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Perfect for meal prepping or slicing for sandwiches the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Roasted, Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
