Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast recipe is a versatile and delicious option for smaller gatherings or when you want a quicker alternative to cooking a whole turkey. This recipe uses simple ingredients to ensure the meat remains tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this turkey breast recipe guarantees a golden, succulent centerpiece.
What is Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast?
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast recipe focuses on cooking a turkey breast joint with herb-infused butter and aromatics, ensuring moist meat and a crispy, golden crust. It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a hassle-free yet flavorful alternative to a whole bird.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Faster Cooking: Perfect for quicker holiday meals.
- Great for Smaller Groups: Ideal for feeding 4-6 people.
- Moist and Flavorful: Herb butter and basting keep the meat tender and juicy.
- Customizable: Adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
- Easy to Prepare: A straightforward recipe that delivers big on flavor.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast
For the Turkey Breast
- Turkey Breast Joint (1.5-2kg): Serves 4-6 people.
- Butter (100g, softened): Keeps the meat moist and adds flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary (2 sprigs): Provides a fragrant, earthy flavor.
- Fresh Thyme (2 sprigs): Enhances the savory taste.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Adds brightness and freshness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For the Roasting Tray
- Onion (1, quartered): Adds sweetness to the juices.
- Carrot (1, roughly chopped): Contributes to the roasting base.
- Celery (1 stalk, roughly chopped): Adds depth to the flavors.
- Chicken Stock (250ml): Helps keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
Equipment Needed
- Roasting tray
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Prepare the herb butter
In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Season the turkey breast
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin with your fingers and spread half of the herb butter under the skin. Rub the remaining butter over the skin and season with additional salt and pepper.
Step 4: Prepare the roasting tray
Place the onion, carrot, and celery in the roasting tray. Pour in the chicken stock and set the turkey breast on top of the vegetables.
Step 5: Roast the turkey breast
Place the roasting tray in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 45 minutes per kilogram, basting every 20 minutes with the pan juices.
Step 6: Check for doneness
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast. It is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Step 7: Rest the turkey
Remove the turkey breast from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 8: Carve and serve
Slice the turkey breast and serve warm with your favorite sides.
What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast
- Roast Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside.
- Steamed Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts complement the turkey beautifully.
- Cranberry Sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Stuffing: A classic pairing for turkey.
- Gravy: Use the pan juices to create a rich, flavorful gravy.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mash balances the textures perfectly.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures the turkey breast is perfectly cooked without drying out.
- Baste Regularly: Keeps the meat moist and enhances the flavor of the skin.
- Let It Rest: Resting the turkey after roasting locks in the juices.
- Prepare Ahead: Season the turkey and apply the herb butter the night before for deeper flavors.
- Add a Glaze: Brush with honey and mustard during the final 15 minutes of roasting for a sweet and tangy crust.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast
- Garlic Herb Crust: Add breadcrumbs to the herb butter for a crispy topping.
- Citrus Twist: Use orange zest and juice for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the butter.
- Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Breast: Wrap the turkey breast with streaky bacon for added moisture and flavor.
- Vegetarian Gravy: Use vegetable stock and mushrooms to make a meat-free gravy.
Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat Gently: Warm slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) with a splash of stock to prevent drying out.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
How do I keep turkey breast from drying out while roasting?
To keep turkey breast moist, spread herb butter under and over the skin and baste it regularly with the pan juices during cooking. Adding stock to the roasting tray also helps maintain moisture.
What is the ideal internal temperature for turkey breast?
The thickest part of the turkey breast should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) when fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I prepare turkey breast in advance?
Yes, you can season the turkey breast and apply the herb butter the day before roasting. Store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before cooking.
How long should I rest the turkey breast after roasting?
Rest the turkey breast for 15-20 minutes after roasting. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm and allow the juices to redistribute for tender, juicy slices.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast recipe is an easy yet impressive way to serve up tender and juicy turkey with minimal effort. Perfect for holiday meals or special family dinners, this recipe ensures flavorful meat and a beautifully golden finish. Try it today and elevate your turkey game!
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Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 90
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast recipe focuses on cooking a turkey breast joint with herb-infused butter and aromatics, ensuring moist meat and a crispy, golden crust. It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a hassle-free yet flavorful alternative to a whole bird.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Breast
- Turkey Breast Joint (1.5-2kg): Serves 4-6 people.
- Butter (100g, softened): Keeps the meat moist and adds flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary (2 sprigs): Provides a fragrant, earthy flavor.
- Fresh Thyme (2 sprigs): Enhances the savory taste.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Adds brightness and freshness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
For the Roasting Tray
- Onion (1, quartered): Adds sweetness to the juices.
- Carrot (1, roughly chopped): Contributes to the roasting base.
- Celery (1 stalk, roughly chopped): Adds depth to the flavors.
- Chicken Stock (250ml): Helps keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Prepare the herb butter
In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Season the turkey breast
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin with your fingers and spread half of the herb butter under the skin. Rub the remaining butter over the skin and season with additional salt and pepper.
Step 4: Prepare the roasting tray
Place the onion, carrot, and celery in the roasting tray. Pour in the chicken stock and set the turkey breast on top of the vegetables.
Step 5: Roast the turkey breast
Place the roasting tray in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 45 minutes per kilogram, basting every 20 minutes with the pan juices.
Step 6: Check for doneness
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast. It is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Step 7: Rest the turkey
Remove the turkey breast from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 8: Carve and serve
Slice the turkey breast and serve warm with your favorite sides.
