Small but mighty, a turkey breast feeds a downsized crowd and can be flavored any way you prefer.

Oven-roasted turkey breast is also a good option for smaller Thanksgiving dinners and for lovers of white meat.

Learn how to make a roasted turkey breast.

roasted turkey breast - southern living

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Plus, get information on buying and preparing one for your meal.

Here’s a brief outline of the process.

First, a bone-in turkey breast is often bigger than a boneless one, around six pounds each.

butter, herbs, and seasonings for turkey rub

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However, a boneless can be as small as three pounds.

A boneless turkey breast cooks faster, too.

Start checking the breast’s internal temp after 45 minutes to be sure you don’t overcook.

turkey breast with butter rub

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How Long Does It Take To Roast a Turkey Breast?

A lower oven temperature will take longer.

At 350F, factor in needing 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.

turkey breast with butter rub all over

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But trust a thermometer, not a clock.

Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through, or enjoy cold.

Roasted turkey breast meat is so good, you shouldn’t be surprised when every ounce of it disappears.

Roasted Turkey Breast - Southern Living

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Rub butter mixture on turkey:

Trim any excess fat and skin around turkey neck.

Do not detach skin completely from breast.

Rest seasoned turkey:

Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Set an oven-safe wire rack inside prepared baking sheet.

Place turkey on wire rack, and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour.

Alternatively, refrigerate, uncovered, up to 12 hours.

Remove turkey from refrigerator and let rest at room temperature for 1 hour before roasting.

Roast turkey:

Preheat oven to 450F with rack in lower third position.

Place turkey in oven, and immediately reduce oven temperature to 350F.

Let turkey stand, then carve:

Let turkey stand at room temperature 20 minutes.

Carve turkey, and transfer to a platter.