Instant Pot Turkey Breast: The Ultimate Guide for Juicy and Flavorful Results

Instant Pot Turkey Breast is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a succulent, flavorful turkey without the hours of preparation and cooking time typically associated with traditional methods. As someone who has always loved the rich, savory taste of turkey, I was thrilled to discover how the Instant Pot can transform this classic dish into a quick and convenient meal. This recipe not only saves time but also locks in moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy turkey breast that will impress your family and friends.

The history of turkey as a staple in many cultures, especially during festive occasions like Thanksgiving, adds a layer of significance to this dish. People adore Instant Pot Turkey Breast not just for its delightful taste and texture, but also for the ease it brings to the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering centerpiece that’s perfect for any gathering. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in turkey breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Turkey Breast

1. **Thaw the Turkey Breast**: If your turkey breast is frozen, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain moisture. 2. **Pat Dry**: Once thawed, remove the turkey breast from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the skin crisp up during cooking. 3. **Season the Turkey**: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast, then generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the turkey, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Don’t forget to season under the skin for maximum flavor!

Setting Up the Instant Pot

4. **Add Liquid**: Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice into the bottom of the Instant Pot. This will create the steam needed for pressure cooking and infuse the turkey with flavor. 5. **Insert the Trivet**: Place the trivet (the metal rack that comes with the Instant Pot) inside the pot. This will keep the turkey breast elevated above the liquid, allowing it to cook evenly.

Cooking the Turkey Breast

6. **Place the Turkey in the Pot**: Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the trivet, breast side up. Make sure it fits comfortably in the pot without touching the lid. 7. **Seal the Instant Pot**: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. This is important for building pressure. 8. **Set Cooking Time**: Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 6 minutes per pound of turkey breast. For a 5-pound turkey breast, you would set it for 30 minutes. 9. **Natural Release**: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the turkey retain its juices. After that, you can carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.

Checking for Doneness

10. **Check Internal Temperature**: Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. It should read at least 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat. If it hasn’t reached this temperature, you can seal the pot again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, followed by another natural release. 11. **Remove the Turkey**: Once the turkey is fully cooked, carefully lift it out of the Instant Pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it on a cutting board and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist turkey.

Making the Gravy (Optional)

12. **Prepare the Gravy**: While the turkey is resting, you can make a quick gravy using the drippings left in the Instant Pot. Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and let the liquid come to a simmer. 13. **Thicken the Gravy**: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this mixture into the simmering liquid in the pot. Stir continuously until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serving the Turkey Breast

14. **Slice the Turkey**: After the turkey has rested, use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain. This will help keep the meat tender and juicy. 15. **Plate and Garnish**: Arrange the sliced turkey on a serving platter. If you like, you can garnish it with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor. 16. **Serve with Gravy**: Serve the turkey slices with the homemade gravy drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes

Conclusion:

In summary, this Instant Pot Turkey Breast recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their holiday meals or simply enjoy a delicious, tender turkey any time of the year. The convenience of the Instant Pot not only saves you time but also locks in flavors and moisture, resulting in a succulent turkey that will impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your turkey with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cranberry sauce to enhance the festive feel. You can also experiment with variations by adding different herbs and spices to the seasoning mix or even brining the turkey beforehand for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this Instant Pot Turkey Breast recipe a try and share your experience with me! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, I’m confident you’ll find this dish to be a game-changer. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it on social media—let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Happy cooking! Print