If you have been looking for a simple and succulent turkey dish that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, this Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special holiday gathering, this tender, juicy turkey breast cooked in your pressure cooker delivers perfectly every time. The blend of herbs and spices creates an irresistible aroma and taste, while the Instant Pot ensures the meat stays incredibly moist, saving you from hours of oven-watching. You are about to discover how effortless and rewarding turkey can be.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe, yet the list is wonderfully simple. Each item plays a crucial role in bringing out the turkey’s natural flavor, adding depth, and guaranteeing a juicy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Turkey breast (4–6 pounds): Choose bone-in for more flavor or boneless for easier slicing, both work beautifully.
- Olive oil or melted butter (2 tablespoons): This keeps the skin moist and helps the seasoning stick for that perfect crust.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing the natural taste of the turkey.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat to the blend.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers a savory depth without overpowering the turkey.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle sweetness and rounds out the spice mix.
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Offers an herbal note that complements poultry perfectly.
- Chicken or turkey broth (1 cup): The flavorful liquid base that steams the turkey tender.
- Onion, quartered (1): Aromatic and slightly sweet, it infuses the broth as it cooks.
- Garlic cloves, smashed (4): Fresh garlic enhances the overall savory experience.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (2, optional): Adds a fragrant, woodsy aroma that elevates the entire dish.
How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Turkey
Begin by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely later. Mix your salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme together in a small bowl. Then, rub your turkey all over with olive oil or melted butter. This not only helps keep it juicy but makes the seasoning stick well. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly across the skin and, if possible, gently work some underneath the skin for maximum flavor infiltration.
Step 2: Set Up the Instant Pot Aromatics
Place the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herb sprigs at the bottom of the Instant Pot. These aromatics will infuse the broth with wonderful flavors and keep the turkey elevated during cooking. Pour in the cup of broth, which will create the necessary steam to cook the turkey perfectly.
Step 3: Arrange the Turkey Breast
Put the trivet inside the Instant Pot above the aromatics and place the turkey breast on top, skin-side up. This arrangement allows for even cooking and prevents the turkey from stewing in the liquid, keeping the texture just right.
Step 4: Pressure Cook to Juicy Perfection
Seal the lid securely and set your Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High. Cook for 6 minutes per pound, which usually translates to about 24–36 minutes depending on the size of your turkey breast. After the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to ensure tenderness, then manually quick release any remaining pressure with care.
Step 5: Rest and Optional Crisping
Carefully remove your turkey breast and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum moistness. If you prefer a crispy skin, pop the turkey under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Use the Cooking Liquid
Don’t throw away the liquid at the bottom of the Instant Pot! Strain it to remove solids and use as a flavorful base for a rich gravy. It’s an easy way to add more depth to your meal that your guests will appreciate.
How to Serve Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs are not only beautiful on the plate but bring a fresh aroma that complements the turkey’s savory flavor. A spritz of lemon juice can also brighten up the dish just before serving, lending a subtle zing.
Side Dishes
Classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad work perfectly alongside this turkey breast. For a low-carb option, steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans add color and crunch. Cranberry sauce or a tangy chutney can introduce a delightful sweet contrast that makes every bite exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, slice the turkey breast thick and fan it out over a rustic wooden board with your favorite sides arranged around it. This invites everyone to dig in family-style. Alternatively, use leftovers to build hearty sandwiches with fresh bread, cranberry sauce, and stuffing for a mornings-after delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap any leftover turkey securely in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Stored properly in the fridge, it will keep its delicious taste and moisture for up to 3 to 4 days, perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to store turkey for longer, slice it before freezing and pack portions in freezer-safe bags. This Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe freezes well and can last up to 3 months without losing its great texture or flavor.
Reheating
For the best juicy results, reheat turkey slices gently in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water, either in the microwave or oven. This prevents drying out and keeps every bite tender and tasty.
FAQs
Can I use a frozen turkey breast in this recipe?
Yes! You can cook a frozen turkey breast in the Instant Pot, but be sure to increase the cook time by about 50%. Always check the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.
Do I have to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs add the best aroma and flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch. Just reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I know when the turkey breast is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. It should read 165°F (74°C) to indicate doneness.
Can I cook a bone-in turkey breast with this method?
Absolutely! Bone-in turkey breast works wonderfully in the Instant Pot, often yielding even more flavorful and juicy meat.
Is this recipe suitable for holidays like Thanksgiving?
Definitely! This Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe offers a quick and stress-free alternative to oven roasting, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday with your guests.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe is truly one of my favorite discoveries for making turkey that is juicy, flavorful, and effortlessly cooked. It’s perfect whether you’re preparing a festive meal or a comforting weeknight dinner. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a go-to in your recipe collection too. Warm, tender turkey with minimal effort is always a win!
Print
Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, juicy turkey cooked quickly under pressure. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a hassle-free Thanksgiving centerpiece, it features aromatic herbs and spices with optional crispy skin achieved under the broiler.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 (4–6 pound) bone-in or boneless turkey breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Aromatics and Broth
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Rub the turkey all over with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the skin and under the skin if possible.
- Set Up the Instant Pot: Place the quartered onion, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs (if using) into the bottom of the Instant Pot. Pour in the chicken or turkey broth to create a flavorful base.
- Place the Turkey in the Pot: Insert the trivet inside the pot over the aromatics. Set the seasoned turkey breast on top of the trivet, skin-side up to keep the skin intact during cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 6 minutes per pound (about 24 to 36 minutes depending on weight). After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Rest and Crisp the Skin: Carefully remove the turkey breast from the pot and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. For crispy skin, place the turkey under a broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Make Gravy (Optional): Strain the cooking liquid to remove solids and use it as a base for gravy to serve alongside the turkey.
Notes
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part to ensure safety.
- This method works excellently for both holiday meals and quick weeknight dinners.
- For best flavor, rub seasoning under the skin as well as on top.
- If broiling for crispy skin, monitor carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover cooking liquid adds depth to gravy or sauces.
