The Perfect 5 lb Bone-In Turkey Breast Recipe

Cooking a 5 pound bone-in turkey breast may seem daunting, but with the right technique you’ll achieve juicy, flavorful meat and gorgeously crisped skin every time This complete guide will walk you through picking the right turkey breast, seasoning and prep, step-by-step roasting instructions, plus creative ideas for using up leftovers Let’s get started!

Why Cook a 5 lb Bone-In Turkey Breast?

There are several benefits to cooking a 5 lb bone-in turkey breast versus a whole turkey:

• Only Cook What You Need A 5 lb breast feeds about 4-6 people, perfect for smaller gatherings No wasted leftovers from a gigantic bird.

• Faster Cooking Time: A 5 lb breast roasts in just 1 1/2 – 2 hours while a whole 15 lb turkey can take 3-4 hours.

• Easier to Prepare: Seasoning and roasting a turkey breast is much less complex than managing a bulky whole bird.

• Guaranteed White Meat: You get the two tender, mild breast fillets without any dark leg meat.

• Crispier Skin With direct high heat contact, the breast skin gets ultra crisp and golden brown.

Picking the Right 5 lb Turkey Breast

When shopping for a 5 lb turkey breast, here’s what to look for:

• Bone-in, Skin-on: This gives the most flavor and moisture. Go skinless if you must avoid the fat.

• Approximate 5 lb Size: Anywhere from 4.5 – 5.5 lbs works well. Over 6 lbs may not fit in your roasting pan.

• Fresh vs Frozen: Either is fine, just thawed completely before cooking if frozen.

• Free Range or Organic: Opt for these if you want a more natural, premium product.

Seasoning Your Turkey Breast

Proper seasoning builds big flavor. Try these tasty 5 lb turkey breast seasoning ideas:

• Herbed butter under the skin and on top. Thyme, sage, rosemary, garlic.

• Olive oil with salt, pepper and poultry seasoning on the skin.

• Dry rub with brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder.

• Citrus and herbs like orange juice, lemon zest, thyme and parsley.

• Mustard coating with sliced garlic, black pepper and onion powder.

Step-by-Step Method for Roasting a 5 lb Turkey Breast

Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:

1. Prepare the Breast

• Pat dry with paper towels. Loosen skin gently. Season under and on top of skin.

2. Preheat Oven & Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place a roasting rack in pan and lightly grease the rack.

3. Roast the Breast

• Place breast skin-side up on rack. Roast for 60-90 minutes until 165°F internal temp.

4. Rest and Carve

• Lightly tent breast with foil and let rest 15 minutes before slicing to serve.

It’s that easy! With frequent basting, your 5 lb turkey breast will have juicy, tender meat infused with your favorite flavors and the skin will be crispy and golden brown.

Handy Time Chart

Use this time chart as a guide when roasting a 5 lb bone-in turkey breast:

| Breast Weight | Cook Time at 350°F |
|-|-|-|
| 4.5 lbs | 60-75 minutes |
| 5 lbs | 75-90 minutes |
| 5.5 lbs | 90-105 minutes |

Always rely on a meat thermometer for doneness, not just time. Cook to 165°F.

Roasting Pan Tips

Use these tips for best results when roasting a turkey breast:

• Choose a roasting pan just slightly larger than the breast.

• Opt for a metal pan over glass or ceramic for even browning.

• Use a rack to elevate out of drippings; tent foil over edges to prevent burns.

• For easy cleanup, line pan with foil and place rack on top.

Get Creative with Leftovers

Leftover roasted turkey breast is useful for so many quick meals. Try these creative ideas:

• Hearty turkey salad with grapes, pecans, celery, and mayo.

• Tacos with sliced turkey, guacamole, pickled onions, queso fresco.

• Flatbread pizzas topped with turkey, pesto, roasted veggies, feta.

• Turkey noodle soup with carrots, onions, broth and egg noodles.

• Turkey hash with potatoes, bell pepper, spinach and a fried egg.

With this foolproof method, you’ll see how easy and delicious roasting a 5 lb bone-in turkey breast can be. Enjoy the mild flavor, moist meat and crispy skin without the hassle of a whole turkey.