The Instant Pot makes holiday cooking a breeze, delivering a juicy and flavorful turkey breast in just 35 minutes. Infused with fresh herbs and spices, this dish is perfect for creating a festive centerpiece with minimal effort. What’s more, the Instant Pot retains all the juices and flavors, making it easy to prepare moist turkey and a rich, savory gravy from the drippings. Pair it with your favorite sides for a memorable meal that will impress your family and guests alike!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 7 lb bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh poultry herb mix (rosemary, sage, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 celery stalks
Directions:
- Add chicken broth, onion, garlic, and celery to the bottom of the Instant Pot insert.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, herb mix, salt, and pepper.
- Wash and pat dry the turkey breast. Brush it thoroughly with the olive oil mixture.
- Place the turkey breast, breast side up, on the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
- Seal the lid and set the valve to “sealing.” Select “manual” and set the timer for 35 minutes on High Pressure.
- After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally. This helps retain moisture in the turkey.
- Carefully open the lid, using a fork to transfer the turkey to a cutting board or baking tray.
- For crispy skin, place the turkey under the broiler at 440°F for a few minutes, keeping a close watch.
- Use the drippings to make gravy by straining them and mixing with a cornstarch slurry. Simmer in the Instant Pot until thickened.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 918 kcal | Servings: 6
Cooking the Perfect Turkey Breast with an Instant Pot: A Game-Changer for Holidays and Beyond
Thanksgiving and other festive gatherings often revolve around a beautifully cooked turkey, but let’s face it preparing a traditional turkey can be an intimidating task. The oven becomes a battlefield of timings and temperatures, often leaving you with a bird that’s either dry or underwhelmingly bland. Enter the Instant Pot Turkey Breast, a modern solution to these age-old culinary woes.
This recipe not only guarantees a juicy, flavorful turkey but also shaves hours off your cooking time. Whether you’re preparing for a grand holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this method ensures you can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time stressing over the stove.
Why Use the Instant Pot for Turkey?
The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, and turkey is no exception. Traditionally, roasting a turkey breast in the oven takes anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, not including the prep and resting time. Using an Instant Pot, you can cut that cooking time down to a mere 35 minutes. But speed isn’t the only advantage.
- Retaining Moisture
Turkey breast, known for being a lean cut of meat, is notoriously easy to overcook. The Instant Pot’s pressure-cooking method traps steam and moisture, infusing the turkey with its natural juices. The result? Tender, melt-in-your-mouth turkey that’s far from dry. - Consistent Results
Cooking turkey in the oven often comes with hot spots and uneven cooking. The Instant Pot ensures even heat distribution, making sure every bite of turkey is perfectly cooked. - Minimal Effort
With the Instant Pot, you can achieve gourmet-level results with minimal effort. After a quick prep, the machine does the hard work for you, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax. - Space Saver
During busy holiday cooking, oven space is often at a premium. By using the Instant Pot, you free up your oven for baking sides, desserts, or other dishes.
Flavor Infusions and Versatility
One of the standout features of this recipe is its herbaceous flavor profile. A mixture of olive oil, paprika, and fresh poultry herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme creates a seasoning blend that complements the turkey’s natural taste. These herbs not only add depth to the turkey but also pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, or green bean casserole.
For those who love crispy turkey skin, a few minutes under the broiler after pressure cooking delivers a golden, crackling exterior that contrasts perfectly with the moist interior. If you prefer a leaner option, simply remove the skin before serving.
This recipe is also versatile in terms of leftovers. Shred the turkey for sandwiches, salads, or soups. Add it to casseroles, or use it to make a comforting pot of turkey noodle soup. The possibilities are endless.
The Convenience of Homemade Gravy
No turkey is complete without gravy, and this recipe simplifies the process. The drippings left in the Instant Pot are a flavor-packed base for making rich and velvety gravy. By straining and thickening the drippings with a cornstarch slurry, you can create a sauce that elevates the turkey and ties together the entire meal. Best of all, the gravy is made in the same pot, saving you from extra dishes.
Perfect for Special Occasions and Everyday Dinners
While this recipe shines during Thanksgiving, it’s also a fantastic option for any time of year. Hosting a dinner party? The Instant Pot Turkey Breast delivers a show-stopping centerpiece without requiring hours of work. Want a high-protein, low-fat option for a weeknight meal? This recipe fits the bill, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Additionally, cooking a turkey breast instead of a whole bird is ideal for smaller gatherings or households. It provides plenty of meat without the waste and is easier to manage both in preparation and cooking.
Tips for Success
To make the most of this recipe, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the Right Size: A 6-quart Instant Pot can accommodate a turkey breast up to 7 pounds. For larger sizes, consider using an 8-quart Instant Pot.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally ensures the turkey retains its moisture. Quick-releasing the pressure may lead to dry meat.
- Digital Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature of the turkey breast to ensure it reaches at least 165°F in the thickest part. This guarantees safety and optimal tenderness.
- Crisping the Skin: For crispy skin, keep a close eye on the turkey under the broiler. Rotate the pan if necessary to ensure even browning.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Another compelling aspect of this recipe is its eco-friendliness. By significantly reducing cooking time, you lower energy consumption compared to traditional oven roasting. This makes the Instant Pot a more sustainable option, particularly for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint in the kitchen.
Moreover, turkey breast is an economical choice, offering high nutritional value at a reasonable price. When paired with affordable, homemade sides, this recipe provides a feast without breaking the bank.
Conclusion:
The Instant Pot Turkey Breast recipe is more than just a cooking method; it’s a culinary breakthrough that simplifies holiday traditions while delivering impeccable results. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or preparing a special meal for two, this recipe combines convenience, flavor, and versatility in one foolproof package.
From its juicy, flavorful meat to the ease of preparation and cleanup, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your repertoire. Give it a try, and experience firsthand how the Instant Pot transforms turkey breast into a dish that’s as effortless as it is delicious.