Dry-Rubbed Turkey Breast

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Are you tired of the same old turkey recipe? Looking for a way to add some flavor and excitement to your Thanksgiving feast?

Jump to recipePin it
Dry-Rubbed Turkey Breast
Servings
8

Method

  1. Grind coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and peppercorns until coarse.

  2. In a medium bowl, combine salt and brown sugar, working them together with your fingers until well mixed.

  3. Stir in the ground spices.

  4. Place the turkey on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet (or on a V-shape rack inside a roasting pan if you don't have the wire rack setup).

  5. Sprinkle the dry brine all over both sides of the turkey breast, patting it to make it stick.

  6. Chill the turkey, uncovered, in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours and up to 2 days.

  7. Remove the turkey breast from the wire rack and rinse the baking sheet and rack if necessary.

  8. Line the baking sheet with three layers of foil and place the rack back inside.

  9. Place the turkey breast back on the rack and let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours.

  10. Preheat the oven to 450° and position an oven rack in the middle.

  11. Pour 1 cup of water into the baking sheet.

  12. Roast the turkey breast, rotating the pan halfway through, for about 30 minutes or until the skin is mostly golden brown.

  13. Reduce the oven temperature to 300° and continue roasting the turkey breast, adding more water as needed to maintain some liquid in the baking sheet.

  14. Use an instant-read

About this recipe

Introduction

Are you tired of the same old turkey recipe? Looking for a way to add some flavor and excitement to your Thanksgiving feast? Look no further than dry-rubbed turkey breast! This mouthwatering dish will have your guests coming back for seconds, and maybe even thirds. Let's dive into the world of dry-rubbed turkey breast and discover how to make this delicious and flavorful dish.

What is Dry-Rubbed Turkey Breast?

Dry-rubbed turkey breast is a method of preparing turkey that involves coating the meat with a flavorful dry rub mixture before cooking. Unlike traditional wet brining, which involves soaking the turkey in a liquid solution, dry-rubbing involves rubbing a mixture of herbs, spices, and seasonings directly onto the turkey. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a delicious and moist turkey breast.

Why Choose Dry-Rubbed Turkey Breast?

Dry-rubbed turkey breast offers a variety of benefits over traditional wet brining. Firstly, it requires less time and effort. Instead of preparing a brine solution and soaking the turkey for hours, all you need to do is mix up a dry rub, apply it to the turkey, and let it sit for a short period of time. Secondly, dry-rubbing allows for more flexibility in flavor combinations. You can customize your dry rub to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a spicy kick or a milder flavor profile. Lastly, dry-rubbing creates a beautifully caramelized crust on the turkey, adding texture and visual appeal to your dish.

How to Make Dry-Rubbed Turkey Breast?

Making dry-rubbed turkey breast is easier than you might think. Start by selecting a boneless, skinless turkey breast. Prepare your dry rub by combining a variety of herbs, spices, and seasonings. Some popular choices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper. Rub the mixture onto the turkey breast, making sure to cover all sides. Let the turkey sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to develop. Then, you can either roast the turkey in the oven or grill it on a barbecue. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

What to Serve with Dry-Rubbed Turkey Breast?

Dry-rubbed turkey breast pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The flavorful turkey will be the star of the show, while the sides complement and enhance the overall meal.

Tips for the Perfect Dry-Rubbed Turkey Breast

To ensure your dry-rubbed turkey breast turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Choose a high-quality turkey breast for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices in your dry rub.
  • Let the turkey sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to develop.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
  • Let the turkey rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Conclusion

Dry-rubbed turkey breast is a delicious and flavorful alternative to traditional turkey recipes. With its easy preparation and customizable flavors, it's a great option for adding excitement to your Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Give it a try and savor the mouthwatering results!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a wet brine instead of dry rub?

While wet brining is a popular method for preparing turkey, dry-rubbing offers a quicker and equally flavorful alternative. Give it a try!

Can I use a bone-in turkey breast for this recipe?

Absolutely! The dry rub can be applied to bone-in turkey breast as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze the dry-rubbed turkey breast?

Yes, you can freeze the dry-rubbed turkey breast before cooking. Make sure to thaw it completely before roasting or grilling.

How long should I let the dry rub sit on the turkey breast?

Let the dry rub sit on the turkey breast for at least an hour in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Can I use the dry rub on a whole turkey?

Absolutely! The dry rub can be used on a whole turkey as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use a different meat besides turkey breast?

Yes, the dry rub can be used on other meats such as chicken breast or pork tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I add sugar to the dry rub?

Adding a small amount of sugar to the dry rub can help create a caramelized crust on the turkey. Experiment with different flavor combinations!

Can I use the dry rub on a vegetarian alternative?

The dry rub can be used on vegetarian alternatives such as tofu or tempeh. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More dinner

See all →