The aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey breast wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that dances on your taste buds. Imagine juicy, tender turkey enveloped in a crispy, golden-brown skin, seasoned to perfection with aromatic garlic and fresh rosemary. This dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s about creating memories and gathering around the table, reminiscing over shared stories.

Every holiday dinner at my grandma’s house featured this showstopper. The way she basted the turkey while sharing tales of her youth made the kitchen feel like a warm embrace. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this Crispy Skin Turkey Breast will elevate any occasion into something truly special. So get ready for an explosion of flavors that will leave you counting down the days until you can make it again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This turkey breast recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
- The combination of garlic and rosemary creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
- Visually stunning with its golden crispy skin, this dish will be the centerpiece of your dinner table.
- Versatile enough for holidays or weeknight meals, it adapts to any occasion beautifully.
Ingredients for Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Turkey Breast: A boneless, skin-on turkey breast is ideal for achieving that crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.
- Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for roasting; they sweeten as they cook and add depth to the flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary: This herb imparts a fragrant aroma and pairs wonderfully with poultry; use sprigs for easy removal after cooking.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil helps achieve that coveted crispiness and enhances flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every dish; don’t skimp on these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab your trusty roasting pan and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for crispy skin! Season generously with salt and pepper all over.
Step 3: Infuse Flavor
In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and olive oil. Rub this aromatic mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure every nook gets some love.
Step 4: Roast Away
Place the turkey breast in your prepared roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes per pound or until a meat thermometer reads an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once cooked perfectly, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute—a key step for juicy turkey!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer slices onto serving plates and drizzle any remaining juices from the pan over them for that extra burst of flavor.
There you have it—the perfect recipe for Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary! With its delightful aromas filling your home and its irresistible crunch beckoning you at every turn, you’ll find yourself making this dish time after time. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This crispy skin turkey breast with garlic and rosemary is not just a meal; it’s a culinary masterpiece that simplifies holiday cooking.
- With its golden, crackling exterior and juicy interior, it’s sure to impress your guests while making you look like a kitchen pro.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the turkey breast generously with salt and let it sit at room temperature. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Sear the turkey skin-side down in a hot skillet until golden, then finish cooking in the oven for juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out rosemary for thyme or sage if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some lemon zest for freshness or even a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer a little kick. The world is your oyster when it comes to customization!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place the turkey breast back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil to retain moisture while ensuring it stays crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Letting the turkey rest before slicing helps maintain juiciness.
- Finally, crisping the skin under the broiler for a minute will give you that irresistible crunch.
Sometimes, my friends call me “the turkey whisperer” after I served this dish during Thanksgiving. Their delighted faces were all I needed to know I had nailed it—crispy skin and all!
FAQs:
What is the best way to achieve crispy skin on turkey breast?
To achieve crispy skin on turkey breast, start by patting the skin dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp up during cooking. Season generously with salt and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. Roasting at a high temperature initially will also help create that desirable crunch. Using garlic and rosemary as part of your seasoning blend enhances flavor while keeping the focus on achieving crispy skin.
Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary for this turkey recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on garlic and rosemary, you can experiment with other herbs. Thyme and sage are excellent alternatives that pair well with turkey. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider using herbs like oregano or marjoram. Adjust the quantities to your taste, ensuring they complement the garlic without overpowering it. This flexibility allows you to customize your Crispy Skin Turkey Breast while maintaining delicious flavors.
How long should I cook Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary?
Cooking time for Crispy Skin Turkey Breast depends on its weight and the cooking method used. Generally, roast an average-sized turkey breast (around 4-6 pounds) at 425°F (220°C) for about 1 to 1.5 hours. To ensure it’s fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Resting the turkey for at least 15 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in moist meat alongside that crispy skin.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare some components of Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary in advance. Season the turkey breast a day ahead, allowing it to marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This enhances flavor and tenderizes the meat. However, it’s best to roast the turkey just before serving for optimal texture and freshness. If you have leftovers, store them properly in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain that delicious crispiness.
Conclusion for Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary:
In summary, preparing a Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary elevates any meal with its delightful flavors and textures. By following key steps such as drying the skin, using fresh herbs, and monitoring cooking times, you can achieve that perfect crunch while ensuring juicy meat underneath. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a special dinner, this recipe shines as a centerpiece that impresses family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary
Crispy Skin Turkey Breast with Garlic & Rosemary is a showstopper dish that transforms any meal into a festive occasion. With juicy, tender meat nestled beneath a golden, crispy skin and infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and fresh rosemary, this turkey breast will have your guests raving. Perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners, this recipe is simple enough for beginners while impressing seasoned cooks alike. Gather around the table and create lasting memories with this delectable centerpiece.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skin-on turkey breast (4–6 lbs)
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a roasting pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and olive oil. Rub this mixture over the turkey breast.
- Place the turkey breast in the roasting pan and roast for about 25-30 minutes per pound or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 530 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest or swapping rosemary for thyme or sage.- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil.







