Description
This Best Instant Pot Turkey Breast recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful turkey breast cooked to perfection using the pressure cooking method. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then seared before being cooked in the Instant Pot, this recipe offers a quick and efficient way to enjoy a tender turkey breast without the long roasting times. Perfect for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Breast and Seasoning
- 3 pounds boneless or bone-in turkey breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 small onion, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and onion powder. Mix well to create the seasoning rub. Rub this mixture evenly all over the turkey breast for full flavor infusion.
- Sear the Turkey: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat it up. Place the seasoned turkey breast into the pot and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the surface is lightly browned. This step locks in juices and adds depth of flavor. Remove the turkey from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Deglaze: Add the sliced onion to the Instant Pot. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape the bottom of the pot thoroughly to loosen any browned bits left from searing, enhancing the flavor of the broth.
- Pressure Cook: Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot, then lay the turkey breast on top of the trivet to keep it elevated from the liquid. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Once cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes to ensure tenderness.
- Release Pressure and Rest: After the natural release, carefully turn the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid, remove the turkey breast, and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy meat texture.
- Serve: Slice the turkey breast against the grain for tenderness. Spoon some of the flavorful cooking juices from the Instant Pot over the slices before serving for added moisture and taste.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the turkey breast; adjust accordingly for larger or smaller pieces.
- For extra flavor and a crispy exterior, finish the turkey breast under the oven broiler for a few minutes after pressure cooking.
- Always ensure the valve is properly set to sealing before pressure cooking.
- Letting the meat rest is crucial to retain juiciness and improve texture.
