Cooking a juicy and flavorful turkey breast starts with choosing the right cut of meat. HoneyBaked turkey breast is a great option that is pre-seasoned and ready to cook. Here are some tips for cooking a perfect HoneyBaked turkey breast.
What is HoneyBaked turkey breast?
HoneyBaked turkey breast is a boneless, skinless turkey breast that has been injected with a proprietary blend of seasonings and honey. The seasoning infuses the meat with flavor and helps keep it juicy when cooking. The honey adds a touch of sweetness and creates a glaze on the outside of the meat.
HoneyBaked turkey breasts are partially cooked and sold fully cooked. The par-cooked version needs to be finished by baking at home. The fully cooked version just needs to be heated through before serving.
How long to cook a HoneyBaked turkey breast?
Cooking times will vary depending on the size of the turkey breast. Here are some general guidelines:
- 1-2 lb turkey breast: Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes
- 3-4 lb turkey breast: Bake at 350°F for 60-75 minutes
- 5-7 lb turkey breast: Bake at 350°F for 90-120 minutes
The best way to ensure doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Turkey breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Instructions
Step 1: Thaw the turkey breast
If the turkey breast is frozen, thaw it completely in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before cooking. Do not thaw at room temperature.
Step 2: Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Be sure to give the oven plenty of time to fully preheat before baking.
Step 3: Prepare the turkey breast
Remove turkey breast from packaging and discard plastic tie or netting. Rinse turkey under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place turkey breast on a baking sheet or pan lined with foil.
Step 4: Bake the turkey breast
Bake turkey breast for 30-40 minutes per pound, until internal temperature reaches 165°F when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest part. Check temperature in a few places to ensure even doneness.
Baste turkey with pan juices every 30 minutes while baking. This helps keep the turkey moist and adds flavor.
Step 5: Let it rest
Remove turkey breast from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat.
Step 6: Carve and serve
To carve, slice turkey breast across the grain into thin slices. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for the juiciest HoneyBaked turkey breast
- Do not overcook – Use a meat thermometer to prevent overbaking.
- Baste while cooking – Baste every 30 minutes to keep meat moist.
- Let it rest – Allow 10-15 minutes resting time before carving.
- Slice across the grain – Cutting across the grain shortens muscle fibers for tender meat.
- Keep leftovers juicy – Store carved turkey breast in an airtight container with a bit of broth or juice.
Complementary side dishes
HoneyBaked turkey breast pairs nicely with these Thanksgiving-inspired sides:
| Side Dish | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes | Potatoes, butter, milk, salt, pepper | Boil and mash potatoes with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper. |
| Stuffing | Bread cubes, onion, celery, chicken broth, herbs | Sauté onion and celery. Toss with bread cubes and chicken broth. Bake until browned. |
| Green bean casserole | Green beans, cream of mushroom soup, fried onions | Mix green beans, soup, and bake. Top with fried onions. |
| Cranberry sauce | Cranberries, sugar, orange juice/zest | Simmer cranberries with sugar, orange juice and zest until thickened. |
| Dinner rolls | Flour, yeast, salt, butter, milk | Make dough with flour, yeast, salt, butter, and milk. Shape into rolls and bake. |
Leftover turkey ideas
Put extra HoneyBaked turkey breast to delicious use in these quick meals:
- Turkey sandwiches – Layer sliced turkey with cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
- Turkey salad – Chop or shred turkey and mix with mayo, celery, and onions for sandwiches or wraps.
- Turkey fried rice – Dice and pan fry turkey with rice, eggs, and vegetables.
- Turkey pot pie – Make a creamy sauce with vegetables and top with a biscuit crust.
- Turkey tacos – Warm shredded turkey in taco seasoning and serve in tortillas or taco salads.
Conclusion
HoneyBaked turkey breast is a quick, easy, and delicious main dish for Thanksgiving or anytime. Follow the tips above for moist, tender turkey breast that cooks evenly. Pair with classic holiday sides and transform leftovers into enticing meals. Enjoy this flavorful cut that requires little preparation yet tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.