Cooking a whole turkey can be intimidating but cooking just the breast is an easy way to enjoy this tasty bird without all the fuss. By cooking the turkey breast in a bag it comes out incredibly moist and flavorful. The bag keeps all the juices locked in for a succulent piece of meat. It’s also a very hands-off cooking method, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holidays when you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen.
Benefits of Cooking Turkey Breast in a Bag
There are several benefits to cooking turkey breast in a bag:
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Moist and tender meat – The bag seals in all the natural juices during cooking so the breast stays incredibly moist and tender No more dry turkey!
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Infuses flavor – You can add herbs, spices, citrus, broth, wine etc. to the bag which infuses the turkey breast with lots of extra flavor.
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Easy cleanup – Everything cooks neatly in the bag so there are no spills or mess to clean up afterwards. Just throw away the bag.
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Hassle-free – It’s a very simple and hands-off cooking method. Just season the turkey, seal the bag and pop it in the oven.
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Cooks evenly – The hot air circulates evenly around the turkey in the bag so there are no hot or cold spots.
Step-By-Step Guide
Cooking a turkey breast in a bag is simple to do. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients
- 2-3 lb bone-in turkey breast
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- herbs (rosemary, thyme etc.)
- lemon, orange or lime slices
- broth, wine or water
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Pat turkey breast dry with paper towels and place in a large oven bag. Rub skin with olive oil and generously season all over with salt, pepper and any dried herbs.
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Add citrus slices and pour in 1 cup of broth, wine or water. This will keep the meat moist and provide extra flavor.
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Cut 6 (1/2-inch) slits in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape. This prevents the bag from bursting.
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Insert a meat thermometer through a slit in the bag into the thickest part of the meat, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone.
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Seal the oven bag tightly with twist ties. Place on a rimmed baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
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Roast at 350°F for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until thermometer reads 165°F.
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Carefully open the oven bag (hot steam will release). Transfer turkey to a cutting board, tent with foil and let rest for 15 minutes.
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Carve turkey and serve. Enjoy your moist and flavorful turkey breast!
Tips
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For extra flavor, try adding chopped apples, onions, garlic, olives, sun-dried tomatoes or your favorite spices to the bag.
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Brining the turkey breast for a few hours before cooking adds moisture and seasoning.
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Let the turkey breast rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing for juicy results.
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Leftovers can be used for sandwiches, soups, salads or casseroles.
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Cook to 165°F whether you prefer light or dark meat. The temperature is what matters most for food safety.
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Be careful when opening the hot oven bag as steam will release. Use oven mitts.
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Choose an oven bag size that fits snugly around the turkey breast. Excess air can lead to uneven cooking.
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Adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the bag juices after cooking makes an easy gravy.
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For crispier skin, open the bag for the last 15-30 minutes of roasting to brown the skin.
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Use poultry shears or knife to carefully cut slits in the bag to insert the thermometer and release steam.
Variations
There are lots of ways to customize your turkey breast to suit your tastes:
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Mediterranean – Stuff slices of lemon, oregano, garlic, olives, artichokes and feta cheese inside the bag. Pour in chicken broth.
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Tex-Mex – Add chili powder, cumin, garlic, lime, jalapeño and cilantro to the bag. Use chicken broth.
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Italian – Stuff with rosemary, sage and garlic. Add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms and white wine to the bag.
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Asian – Rub on five-spice powder and add soy sauce, ginger and orange slices to the bag. Use chicken or vegetable broth.
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BBQ – Coat with barbecue sauce and cook with smoked paprika, chili powder, onions and beer in the bag.
FAQs
What size turkey breast should I use?
- Look for a bone-in breast between 2-3 pounds which will feed 4-6 people. Boneless breasts can also be used.
What if my turkey breast is too big for the oven bag?
- Use two bags, dividing the breast between them. Make sure to seal them tightly.
Should I tie the oven bag or use bag clips?
- It’s best to tightly seal the bag with twist ties to prevent leaks. Bag clips can also be used.
Can I stuff the turkey breast?
- Yes, you can place stuffing inside the cavity before sealing the bag if desired. Use cooked stuffing for food safety.
What temperature should the turkey breast reach?
- Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer for optimal safety and juiciness.
Cooking a turkey breast in a bag is a great hands-off method for a tender, flavorful meal. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious centerpiece ready for your next dinner or holiday feast.
