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This Herb-Crusted Roast Split Turkey Breast recipe is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for one or two servings. With minimal effort, you’ll enjoy the comforting aroma of a roasting turkey that’s delicious for any occasion, from special meals to an easy weeknight dinner.
If you love turkey and want to switch it up, try our single serving and small batch options like savory Turkey Cutlets, our small Herb-Crusted Turkey Roast, or our tender Turkey Tenderloin. Each one is perfectly sized for one and packed with flavor.
For a comforting Thanksgiving dinner for one, this roast turkey breast is a perfect choice. And if you end up with leftovers, try them in our flavorful Thanksgiving Sliders!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: This recipe keeps things easy with minimal prep.
- Pairs with Many Sides: Serve with favorites like Creamed Spinach, Green Bean Casserole, or Risotto.
- Rich Flavor: A mix of herbs and butter gives each bite a delicious flavor.
- Healthy Choice: Turkey breast is a great source of lean protein.
- Just the Right Size: Perfect for one or two servings, so there’s little to no waste.
- Great for Small Celebrations: This roast split turkey breast brings traditional flavors to the table, making it an ideal choice for intimate Thanksgiving gatherings.
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Ingredient Notes
- Split Turkey Breast: This cut is one side of a whole turkey breast, usually with the bone in and skin on. It’s perfect for smaller servings, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful while roasting. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal.
- Butter: Adds richness; swap with ghee if you prefer a lactose-free option.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats for roasting; avocado oil works as a great substitute.
- Dried Rosemary: Brings a fragrant, earthy note; fresh rosemary is also a good option.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings; feel free to adjust to your taste.
How To Roast A Turkey Breast
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Carefully separate the skin from the meat using your fingers and spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter underneath the skin. Pat dry the split turkey breast.
- Create Herb Butter Mixture: In a small mixing bowl, combine the remaining softened butter, olive oil, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Butter the Turkey Breast: Generously spread the herb butter mixture over the top of the turkey breast, ensuring a flavorful crust.
- Preheat and Place in Pan: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, positioning it to cook evenly.
- Roasting Time: Roast the split turkey breast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The turkey is ready when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 165 degrees F.
- Rest and Slice: Once roasted, remove the turkey breast from the pan and cover it, allowing it to rest for at least 15 minutes. This ensures juicy, tender meat. Slice and enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey breast.
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Expert Tips
- Preheat Oven: Ensures even cooking.
- Let Rest: Allow the meat to rest after cooking for juicier results.
- Use a Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure doneness.
RELATED: 4 “Mini” Pumpkin Recipes To Get You Ready For Fall
Serving Suggestions
A roast turkey breast makes an excellent centerpiece for a small Thanksgiving table. Create a festive meal by pairing it with our popular single serving traditional holiday side dishes:
- Carrot Soufflé – A light and flavorful option that brings a touch of elegance to your table.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting, this classic side dish never fails to please.
- Buttery Sautéed Green Beans – These green beans are cooked to perfection, offering a bit of crunch and rich buttery flavor.
- Sweet Potato Casserole – A sweet and savory dish that complements the turkey perfectly.
- Cornbread Dressing – This Southern favorite adds a tasty and hearty touch.
- Cranberry Sauce – The tanginess of homemade cranberry sauce balances the rich flavors on your plate.
And of course, no Thanksgiving meal would be complete without a traditional holiday dessert. Consider serving:
- Pecan Pie For One – A rich and nutty treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Pumpkin Pie For One – Embrace the fall flavors with this classic holiday favorite.
- Mini Dutch Apple Pie – Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of apple and cinnamon.
- Sweet Potato Pie For One – This smooth and creamy pie adds a Southern touch to your dessert spread.
These suggested sides and desserts create a satisfying meal, perfect for celebrating Thanksgiving with loved ones, even on a smaller scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
For roasting, I recommend using a bone-in turkey breast with the skin on. The bone helps retain moisture and flavor, giving you a juicier, more flavorful turkey.
No need to baste for this recipe! The butter used in cooking keeps the turkey moist and flavorful without extra effort.
Bake the turkey breast uncovered for best results. After it’s done, cover it and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
To reheat, you can use the microwave or the oven. For the oven, preheat to 350 degrees F. Place the turkey in a shallow baking dish, add a bit of butter or broth to keep it moist, and bake for about 20 minutes until warm.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
For more information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.
For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.
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If you’ve tried this roasted turkey breast or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
Also, if you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see!
Roast Turkey Breast
Equipment
- roasting pan
Ingredients
- 1 (2.5 pound) split turkey breast
- 2 tablespoon salted butter , softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Instructions
- Heat an oven to 400 degrees F. (200 degrees C). Pat dry the split turkey breast.
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Carefully separate the skin from the meat using your fingers and spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter underneath the skin.
- Create Herb Butter Mixture: In a small mixing bowl, combine the remaining softened butter, olive oil, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Butter the Turkey Breast: Generously spread the herb butter mixture over the top of the turkey breast, ensuring a flavorful crust.
- Place in Pan: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, positioning it to cook evenly.
- Roasting Time: Roast the split turkey breast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The turkey is ready when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 165 degrees F.
- Rest and Slice: Once roasted, remove the turkey breast from the pan and cover it, allowing it to rest for at least 15 minutes. This ensures juicy, tender meat. Slice and enjoy your perfectly roasted turkey breast.
Notes
- Preheat Oven: Ensures even cooking.
- Let Rest: Allow the meat to rest after cooking for juicier results.
- Use a Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure doneness.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Looking forward to your cookbook coming out next year.
My husband and I are retired empty nesters, so your recipes are perfect for us
I have tried severa and loved them all.
Going to try this turkey breast for Thanksgiving! Thank you!
I’ve made this recipe several times serving two and have had plenty left over for sandwiches. It’s always moist and juicy.
I’m so glad you enjoy this turkey recipe. I love how juicy the turkey is too.
Sounds wonderful – Is this really only 2 servings once cooked? That doesn’t seem possible if it starts out at 2.5 lbs.
Hi Kris,
Generally, this size turkey breast is perfect for one or possibly two people. I suppose it could serve another, especially if a side dish or two is served along with it.
This was honestly the best turkey breast I have ever had. And so very easy to make.
Thank you so much, Linda. I’m so happy you enjoyed it.
How do you obtain a ‘bone in split turkey breast’? I can only find whole turkey breasts, bone in, skin on.
Hi Ruth,
I see split turkey breasts at my local groceries in the refrigerated meat section.
Mmmm…this turkey breast looks so tender, flavorful and juicy! I can hardly wait to try your recipe. This is a perfect mid-week dinner with leftovers for turkey sandwiches.
What a great recipe for when you don’t need to feed 12 people! I often want roasted turkey but don’t want to cook a giant whole bird. Saving this for those days!!!
This was perfect for slicing for turkey sandwiches this week! I just couldn’t wait until Thanksgiving!!!
Do you have a cook book for sAle? If so how can I get one
Hi Betty,
We are currently working on a cookbook and it should be our early next year. We will announce it here on our site when we have a date.
Have a wonderful week!
Joanie
Thank you! This is what I love about small batch recipes – very little or no leftovers. I love eating freshly prepared food and cook daily.
You are very welcome, Sandy. I’m so glad you are enjoying the recipes. Thank you so much for letting me know.
Have a wonderful week!
Joanie