I make this lemon garlic herb turkey breast whenever I want a lean, high-protein meal that still feels flavorful and satisfying. Turkey breast often gets a bad reputation for being dry, but with the right marinade and careful cooking, it turns out tender and juicy every time. This recipe has become part of my regular routine because it’s simple, dependable, and works well for both fresh meals and meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I keep coming back to this recipe because it balances clean ingredients with real flavor. The lemon brightens everything, the garlic and herbs give it a classic roasted taste, and the olive oil keeps the meat from drying out. I also like how flexible it is. I can serve it hot for dinner or slice it cold for lunches throughout the week. It supports my nutrition goals without feeling repetitive.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless turkey breast
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional: ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Directions
I begin by mixing the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined. Once the marinade is ready, I place the turkey breast in a shallow dish or resealable bag and coat it thoroughly, making sure the marinade covers every surface.
I refrigerate the turkey for at least one hour, though I prefer marinating it overnight when possible for deeper flavor. Before cooking, I let the turkey sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes so it cooks evenly.
When I want extra flavor, I quickly sear the turkey in a hot skillet for 2 to 3 minutes per side until lightly browned. After that, I transfer it to a baking dish and roast it in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once it’s done, I let the turkey rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 6 servings from a 1½ pound turkey breast.
Preparation takes around 15 minutes, marinating time is at least 1 hour, and cooking time is about 30 to 35 minutes. I plan for roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes total, including marinating.
Variations
I sometimes swap the rosemary and thyme for oregano or sage, depending on what I have available. For a brighter flavor, I add extra lemon zest before roasting. When I want a slightly spicy version, I increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Storage/Reheating
I store cooked turkey in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, I use low heat and add a small splash of water or broth to keep it moist. I also freeze sliced turkey for up to 3 months and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
I often use dried herbs, and they work well. I just reduce the quantity since they are more concentrated.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
I rely on a meat thermometer and remove the turkey once it reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Can I skip the searing step?
I sometimes do. The turkey will still be flavorful, but searing adds a little extra depth.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
I make it often for meal prep because it stays juicy and slices cleanly for several days.
What sides do I usually serve with this?
I like pairing it with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
This lemon garlic herb turkey breast proves that simple ingredients can create a meal that’s both nutritious and enjoyable. I keep it in my rotation because it delivers consistent results, strong flavor, and flexibility for my schedule. It’s one of those recipes I trust whenever I want something clean, filling, and easy to prepare.
This Lemon Garlic Herb Turkey Breast is a tender, juicy, and flavorful protein-packed dish made with simple, clean ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s marinated with lemon, garlic, and herbs, then roasted to perfection for a healthy and satisfying meal.
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Place turkey breast in a shallow dish or resealable bag and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
Remove turkey from the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
Optional: Sear the turkey in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned for added flavor.
Transfer turkey to a baking dish and roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the turkey rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain and serving.
Notes
Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
Swap herbs like oregano or sage depending on availability.
Add extra lemon zest for brightness or cayenne for heat.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Great for slicing and using in wraps, salads, or grain bowls.
