Mastering the Perfect Cook Time for a 3 Pound Turkey Breast

A juicy flavorful turkey breast makes for a tasty any-time meal. While whole turkeys are traditional for holidays a boneless turkey breast is perfect for smaller gatherings. When working with a 3 pound turkey breast, proper timing is key for ideal doneness.

Understanding exactly how long to cook a 3 pound turkey breast ensures your efforts result in a tender, moist entree. Let’s look at timing, temperature, preparation and more for roasting success.

Estimated Cook Times

As a general guideline, plan on these cook times for a 3 pound boneless, skin-on turkey breast:

• 1 1⁄2 – 2 hours at 325°F oven temperature

• 1 1⁄4 – 1 1⁄2 hours at 350°F oven temperature

The slightly lower 325°F oven temp gives the breast time to cook through without drying out. The higher 350°F temp reduces cooking time but requires close monitoring.

An instant read thermometer is the best way to assess perfect doneness. Check for 165°F in the thickest part of the breast when done.

Should You Brine the Turkey Breast First?

For the juiciest results, we highly recommend brining or marinating the turkey breast before roasting.

Brining involves soaking the raw breast in a saltwater solution. This seasons the meat and makes it incredibly moist.

An easy brine can be made with:

• 1 gallon water
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• Herbs and spices (optional)

Submerge the breast 4-8 hours before cooking. Rinse and pat the breast dry before seasoning and roasting.

Preparing and Seasoning the Breast

Always start with a fully thawed breast if using frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator 1-2 days.

Remove any giblets or neck from the cavity. Rinse and pat the breast dry.

Separate the skin from the meat gently. Rub oil or butter under the skin and directly onto the meat.

Season under and on the skin liberally with salt, pepper and any other spices desired.

Stuff the cavity with lemon, garlic and herbs for fantastic flavor while roasting.

Oven Roasting Technique

Use these simple steps for foolproof turkey breast roasting:

• Preheat oven to 325°F. Use a roasting pan fitted with a rack if possible.

• Place breast on the rack skin-side up. Pour 1 cup broth or water in the pan bottom.

• Loosely tent foil over breast, roast 45 minutes to prevent over-browning.

• Remove foil, baste with pan juices. Roast to 165°F, basting every 30 minutes.

• Transfer breast to a cutting board to rest 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Basting throughout roasting keeps the breast incredibly moist and tender. Letting it rest allows juices to redistribute.

Is the Turkey Breast Done?

Check these signs to determine doneness:

• Internal temp of 165°F

• Clear juices when pierced with tip of a knife

• Firm to the touch, not squishy or jiggly

• Meat near bone may show slight pink color

Cook until 165°F for safety and ideal texture. Use an instant read thermometer for accuracy.

Handy Time-Saving Shortcuts

For faster roasting, you can take these shortcuts:

• Buy a pre-brined or pre-seasoned breast

• Skip brining and just coat in oil and seasonings

• Roast at 350°F to reduce cook time slightly

• Finish on the grill for crispy skin and smoky flavor

• Cook in an Instant Pot or slow cooker in just 60-90 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Slice roasted turkey breast for sandwiches, subs, salads and more. Delicious sides include:

• Smoked Mac and Cheese
• Roasted Vegetables
• Cranberry Sauce
• Coleslaw or Broccoli Salad

Perfectly cooked, juicy turkey breast makes a delicious entree anytime. Master proper cook times for a 3 pound turkey breast, and enjoy the wonderful results.