Jamie Oliver Turkey Breast Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast recipe. It was one of those days where I was looking for something easy but impressive, and his recipe came across as a perfect solution. I wasn’t a master chef by any means but was determined to make it delicious and memorable. And, wow, the result blew my expectations. The turkey was succulent, flavorful, and the herb stuffing was just the right amount of savory with a subtle zing.

Now, every holiday season or family gathering, this dish has become a go-to. It’s simple but elevated. If you’re trying to make your next dinner special, whether it’s for a family feast or a cozy evening, this recipe will absolutely impress without stressing you out. Let’s dive into what makes this turkey breast recipe stand out.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast Recipe

Jamie Oliver is known for his ability to create accessible, flavorful dishes that anyone can pull off with a little practice. His turkey breast recipe is a fantastic example. What I love about it is how he uses simple ingredients and makes them shine through fresh herbs, seasoning, and a generous slather of butter.

This recipe doesn’t just call for a plain turkey breast, it’s about adding flavor at every step. The turkey becomes juicy, tender, and full of flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie’s Turkey Breast recipe. I love how every ingredient is something you probably already have in your kitchen or can easily find at your local store.

• 1 whole turkey breast (bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference)
• Butter (about 100g; the star of keeping things moist)
• Garlic (2-3 cloves, smashed or finely chopped)
• Fresh rosemary (a few sprigs; rosemary is key in giving it that holiday scent)
• Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
• Lemon (1, zest and juice; this brightens up the flavors)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Olive oil (for roasting and some extra richness)
• Carrots and onions (for the roasting bed, they add flavor to the drippings)
• Chicken stock (just a little for basting and ensuring moisture)

Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, you can add some fresh sage leaves for an additional aromatic kick!

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast

Making Jamie’s turkey breast is simpler than you might think, and it’s all about preparing the bird properly before roasting. Let me walk you through it step-by-step, based on how I’ve done it at home.

1. Prep The Turkey

   Start by making sure your turkey breast is patted dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up in the oven.

2. Butter And Herb Infusion

   In a small bowl, mash the butter with garlic, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture is key! Gently lift the skin of the turkey breast and smear the butter mixture all over the meat. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.

3. Roast The Bird

   Heat up your oven to 180°C (350°F). On a roasting pan, place chopped carrots and onions as a base. This not only creates a bed for the turkey but adds even more flavor to the drippings. Drizzle the turkey with olive oil and roast it for about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the size of the breast. Halfway through, baste it with the turkey’s juices.

4. Finishing Touches

   Once the turkey is cooked (an internal thermometer should read 75°C or 165°F), let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps the meat tender.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s break down the magic behind some of these ingredients. It’s not just about throwing things together – there’s science in cooking!

• Butter: Butter is the MVP here. It creates a rich barrier that locks in moisture. When you smear butter under the skin, it slowly melts while cooking, keeping the meat moist and adding flavor.
• Garlic: Garlic doesn’t just taste good; it’s also a flavor amplifier. Its compounds infuse the meat with an aromatic depth and a slight sweetness when roasted.
• Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme): These herbs have strong oils that penetrate the meat, making each bite aromatic. Rosemary especially has compounds that can cut through the richness of the turkey, balancing out the flavor.
• Lemon: The zest adds a burst of fresh, citrusy oils. The juice acts as a slight acid that tenderizes the meat. It also adds that refreshing note that helps cut through the heaviness of roasted poultry.

Expert Tips

A few personal tips I’ve picked up along the way that elevate this recipe:

• Room temperature turkey: Always take the turkey out of the fridge 30-60 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer: Don’t guess! A thermometer is your best friend for juicy, perfectly cooked turkey.
• Baste regularly: Basting is key for moist turkey. If you’re roasting for an hour, try basting at least every 30 minutes.
• Rest the turkey: After roasting, let the turkey rest covered with foil for 10 minutes before carving. This lets the juices settle and prevents the turkey from drying out.

Recipe Variations

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, here are some ways to put a twist on Jamie’s turkey breast:

• Stuffing: Add a stuffing to the turkey, either under the skin or in a cavity if it’s bone-in. A savory breadcrumb mixture with sausage or mushrooms adds great texture.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or some smoked paprika to the butter mixture.
• Citrus Twist: Mix in orange zest with the lemon for a different citrus vibe. You could even try adding a splash of orange juice to the roasting pan.
• Glazed Turkey: For a sweet glaze, mix some honey or maple syrup with mustard and brush it over the turkey in the last 15 minutes of roasting.

Final Words

This recipe is a great balance of simplicity and flavor. I’ve made it multiple times, and every time, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The turkey is tender, juicy, and full of flavor, with just the right amount of herbs and seasonings.

The beauty of this recipe is that it doesn’t require any complicated techniques but still produces an elegant, gourmet result. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a chef even if you’re just an enthusiastic home cook.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey breast recipe is a simple, flavorful way to cook turkey breast with fresh herbs, butter, and spices.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast Take To Cook?

It typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to cook the turkey breast, depending on its size.

Can I Use Skinless Turkey Breast For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless turkey breast, but the skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor.

What Herbs Are Used In Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast Recipe?

He uses a mix of rosemary, thyme, and sage for a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the turkey breast by seasoning it a few hours before cooking or even the night before.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and cranberry sauce.

Can I Cook This Recipe On A Grill Instead Of The Oven?

Yes, grilling is an option. Just make sure to cook it evenly over medium heat and monitor the internal temperature.

What Is The Best Way To Ensure The Turkey Breast Stays Moist?

Basting the turkey with butter and covering it with foil during part of the cooking time helps keep it moist.

Can I Use Turkey Breast With Bone For This Recipe?

You can, but the cooking time will increase slightly if using bone-in turkey breast.

What Temperature Should I Cook Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Breast At?

Cook at 180°C (350°F) for a juicy and tender turkey breast.