Turkey Breast, Split, Bone-In, With Rib and Wing Meat, 2.8 Lb Each ITEM CODE: 771754 This item may not be available in your selected store.
If you’ve been searching for smaller, more manageable turkey options for holiday meals or weeknight dinners, you may have come across the term “split turkey breast.” But what exactly is a split breast, and how is it different from a regular turkey breast?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about split turkey breasts, including what they are, how to cook them, and why they can be the perfect choice for feeding a smaller gathering
What is a Split Turkey Breast?
A split turkey breast is one half of a whole turkey breast that has been cut in half lengthwise. Basically, a whole breast has been split down the middle into two smaller sections
Each split breast contains a portion of the breastbone along with breast meat attached on either side. Split breasts are essentially like getting one side of a full breast.
When shopping, you’ll often see them labeled as “split turkey breast” or “half turkey breast.” They may weigh anywhere from 2 to 5 pounds each, depending on the size of the original turkey.
Split turkey breasts provide an easy way to enjoy delicious breast meat without roasting a large 15+ pound whole turkey. They offer the convenience of built-in portions.
Key Benefits of Cooking Split Turkey Breasts
There are many great advantages to choosing split turkey breasts over whole turkeys or even full breasts:
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Smaller size – Perfect for feeding 4-8 people vs a full turkey for 10+
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Quicker cooking – A split breast may cook in about 1-2 hours compared to 3+ for a full breast
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More manageable – Easy to season, prep, and roast just one halved breast
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Moist, flavorful meat – The bone keeps turkey juicy and adds more flavor
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Less waste – Get just the right amount of meat without massive leftovers
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Lower cost – More budget-friendly than purchasing a large whole turkey
For any smaller gathering like Thanksgiving for two, Friendsgiving, or Sunday suppers, split turkey breasts can be the ideal hassle-free choice.
How to Cook a Split Turkey Breast
Though splitting a turkey breast in half may seem intimidating, cooking one is actually very simple:
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Thaw completely if frozen before cooking
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Place breast skin-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
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Season with herbs, spices, salt, pepper, citrus, or rubs.
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Roast for approximately 20 minutes per pound, until 165°F internal temperature.
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Baste with pan drippings, butter, broth every 30 minutes for moisture and flavor.
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Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing for juicy results.
The bone helps keep the meat extra tender and juicy. Split breasts can be stuffed, brined, or rubbed with customized spice blends.
Get creative with unique marinades or compound butter under the skin. Monitor temperature and roast to golden brown perfection.
Serving Suggestions for Cooked Split Turkey Breasts
Beautifully roasted split turkey breasts can form the centerpiece of a variety of meals:
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Slice and serve with traditional Thanksgiving fixings
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Pile slices on sandwiches or wraps with cranberry sauce
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Dice for salads, casseroles, soups, or turkey tetrazzini
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Pair with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and veggie sides for dinner
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Top with gravy or chutneys for extra moisture and flavor
Leftovers can even be used in everything from quesadillas to turkey pot pie. However you serve it up, split turkey breast provides a lean, versatile protein option.
Common Questions about Split Turkey Breasts
What’s the difference between a halved and whole turkey breast?
A split breast contains just one side of the original breast with part of the breastbone. A whole breast contains both sides still connected by the full breastbone.
Can I cook a split breast from frozen?
It is best to thaw breasts in the refrigerator 1-2 days before cooking. Frozen breasts may not cook evenly.
Is stuffing possible with split breasts?
It’s not recommend to stuff halved breasts, as fillings may not reach safe temperatures. Cook stuffing separately instead.
What if my turkey breast has some pink color?
As long as it reaches 165°F, it is safe to eat. Pink indicates the presence of myoglobin in the meat rather than undercooking.
How long does cooked turkey last?
Cooked split turkey breasts will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days. Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 months.
The Perfect Fit for Smaller Holiday Meals
When looking for a manageable turkey option for your Friendsgiving or nuclear family holiday dinner, split turkey breasts can be just right. Smaller and quicker than a full turkey, yet with deliciously juicy bone-in breast meat, split turkey breasts offer an easy way to enjoy this seasonal favorite without overdoing it.
With proper thawing, seasoning, temperature monitoring, and roasting, you can achieve impressive results from these halved turkey breasts. Cook up moist, tender turkey with crispy skin that looks and tastes amazing. Let split turkey breasts become your go-to for fuss-free feasts.
