Juicy and Flavorful Turkey with Lemon Breasts

Turkey with lemon breasts is a delicious and easy way to prepare turkey. The bright citrusy flavor of the lemon complements the turkey perfectly and helps keep it moist and tender. There are a few different methods for making turkey breasts with lemons – pan searing roasting, or grilling. Each technique results in juicy, flavorful turkey that is sure to be a hit.

Why Cook Turkey Breasts with Lemons?

Cooking turkey breasts with lemon adds moisture and flavor. The acidity from the lemon juice helps break down the turkey proteins, resulting in a more tender texture. The lemon also allows the turkey to absorb more moisture, keeping it from drying out. Finally, the bright, tangy lemon flavor complements the mild turkey beautifully. It adds a summery note to the meat that is perfect for warm weather meals.

Choosing and Preparing Turkey Breasts for Cooking

When choosing turkey breasts for cooking with lemon, look for breasts that are evenly sized so they cook at the same rate. Bone-in, skin-on breasts work very well, as the bone and skin help keep the meat moist. Plan on about 1/2 to 3/4 pound of turkey per person.

Trim any excess fat or skin from the breasts before cooking. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. If you are pan searing or grilling the breasts, pounding them to an even 1/2 inch thickness will allow for even cooking.

How to Pan Sear Turkey Breasts with Lemon

Pan seared turkey breasts cook quickly on the stovetop and develop a beautifully browned exterior. The lemon flavor shines through brightly with this method.

Ingredients:

• 2 bone-in, skin-on turkey breasts (1-1.5 lbs each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the turkey breasts and pat very dry with paper towels. Trim any excess skin or fat. Pound to an even 1/2 inch thickness if desired.

2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Rub the lemon mixture all over the turkey breasts on both sides. Let sit 10 minutes

4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil. When hot, add the turkey breasts skin side down. Sear 4-5 minutes until well browned.

5. Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes on the second side until browned and cooked through to 165°F.

6. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Oven Roasted Turkey Breasts with Lemons

Roasting is a simple, hands-off way to cook moist turkey breasts infused with lemon. The pan drippings make an amazing base for gravy or sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 bone-in, skin-on turkey breasts (3-4 lbs total)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Rinse the turkey breasts and pat very dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Place the turkey breasts skin side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Rub the lemon mixture all over the turkey, including under the skin.

4. Roast for 60-75 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baste with pan juices every 20 minutes.

5. Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let rest 15 minutes before slicing to serve.

Grilled Turkey Breasts with Lemon and Herbs

Grilling turkey breasts infuses them with delicious smoky flavor. The lemon herb marinade keeps them juicy and adds brightness.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless turkey breasts (1-1.5 lbs each)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Pound the turkey breasts to an even 1/2 inch thickness.

2. In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, basil, oregano, garlic, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.

3. Place turkey breasts in a gallon size zip top bag. Pour in marinade. Seal bag and refrigerate 2-4 hours, turning occasionally.

4. Heat grill to medium-high. Remove turkey from marinade and grill 5-7 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through to 165°F internally.

5. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing to serve.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Turkey Breasts

Turkey breasts cooked with lemons pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some tasty suggestions:

• Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Sauteed spinach or broccoli rabe
• Quinoa or wild rice pilaf
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Crusty bread for dipping juices

The pan drippings or leftover marinade can be turned into a quick sauce. Simply simmer until reduced and thickened slightly, then stir in a tablespoon of butter or cream. Pour over the sliced turkey to serve.

Lemon turkey breasts make wonderful sandwiches and wraps. Slice the meat thinly and serve on crusty bread or wraps with pesto, lettuce, tomato and avocado.

Leftovers are great for salads, flatbread pizzas or casseroles. The flavors develop even more over time.

Tips for Juicy, Tender Turkey Breasts

• Always start with the best quality turkey you can find. Free range and organic turkey generally has more flavor.

• Brining the turkey breasts for a few hours before cooking can make them even more flavorful and moist.

• Be careful not to overcook the breasts. Use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness.

• Let the cooked turkey rest at least 5-10 minutes before slicing for the juiciest results.

• Add liquids like lemon juice, broth or wine to the pan or grill when cooking. This will create steam to help the meat stay moist.

With its quick cook time, mild flavor and ability to absorb other flavors, turkey breast is a great lean protein choice for meals any time of year. The addition of bright, fresh lemon truly makes this healthy poultry dish sing. For flavorful and foolproof turkey breasts, turn to this tasty lemon method.