brining a turkey breast recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
brining a turkey breast recipe
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The Best brining a turkey breast recipe

I’m so excited to share this brining a turkey breast recipe with you. As a busy mom of two, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make our family meals more delicious and healthier. And let me tell you, this recipe is a game-changer.

It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual Tuesday night. The key to this recipe is the brining process, which involves soaking the turkey breast in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar before cooking it. This step makes all the difference in terms of flavor and tenderness.

I’ve tried many different recipes over the years, but this one stands out for its simplicity and results. My kids love it when I serve it with some roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes on the side. And as an added bonus, this recipe is relatively healthy compared to some other meat dishes out there.

The brining process helps to reduce the sodium content of the turkey breast, making it a great option for those looking to cut down on salt intake. I’ve been making this recipe for years now, and my family never gets tired of it. In fact, they often request it for special occasions like birthdays and holidays.

And I have to admit, I love making it because it’s just so easy to prepare ahead of time and let the oven do all the work while we’re busy with other things around the house.

Brined Turkey Breast

Brined Turkey Breast

4.7 from 716 votes

A juicy and flavorful turkey breast brined in a salt and herb solution, then roasted to golden perfection. This method ensures moist meat and crispy skin every time.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 50 mins plus 12 hours brining
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

8 cups water
1/2 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp black peppercorns
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 cloves garlic, smashed

For the Turkey

1 bone-in turkey breast (about 5 to 6 pounds)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried rosemary

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, bay leaves, peppercorns, thyme, and garlic.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve completely.
3Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes.
4Place the turkey breast in a large brining container or a food-safe plastic bag.
5Pour the chilled brine over the turkey, ensuring it is fully submerged.
6Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, turning once halfway through.
7Preheat oven to 350°F.
8Remove turkey from brine and rinse thoroughly under cold running water.
9Pat dry with paper towels, then rub all over with olive oil, black pepper, and dried rosemary.
10Place turkey breast skin side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
11Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 155°F in the thickest part of the breast.
12The skin should be golden brown and crisp.
13Remove turkey from oven and tent loosely with foil.
14Let rest for 15 minutes; the temperature will rise to 165°F.
15Carve against the grain and serve warm.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or brining container
Roasting pan with rack
Meat thermometer
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 58g

📝Notes

For a crispier skin, let the turkey breast air dry uncovered in the refrigerator for a few hours after brining and before roasting. Adjust salt in the brine if using a pre-brined or kosher turkey.

Watch Video Of How Brined Turkey Breast Works

This brining a turkey breast recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because of its ease of preparation and flexibility with serving options.

You can serve it on its own or with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

One great way to reheat leftover turkey breast is by using a slow cooker – simply place it in the cooker with some chicken broth or water and let it heat up until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Brined Turkey Breast

Q: What is brining and why do I need to do it?

Brining is a process that involves soaking meat in a solution of water, salt, and sugar before cooking it. This step helps to add moisture and flavor to the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

Q: Can I use a store-bought brine mix instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use a store-bought brine mix if you prefer. However, keep in mind that homemade brine mixes tend to be more customizable and cost-effective.

Q: How long does the brining process take?

The length of time you need to soak the turkey breast in the brine solution will depend on its size and thickness. As a general rule of thumb, you should aim for at least 30 minutes per pound.

Q: Can I brine my turkey breast overnight?

Yes, you can brine your turkey breast overnight if you prefer. Simply place it in the refrigerator at least 30 minutes per pound before cooking.

Q: Will I need any special equipment to make this recipe?

No special equipment is required beyond what you might already have in your kitchen.

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