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Looking for a hassle-free and succulent addition to your Thanksgiving feast? Make this juicy Instant Pot lemon and herb turkey breast. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of achieving a perfectly cooked bone-in turkey breast with juicy white meat and a crispy golden skin, all in the convenience of your Instant Pot.

The Instant Pot has become a kitchen staple, revolutionizing the way we cook by providing a quick and efficient method to prepare a variety of dishes. This Instant Pot turkey breast recipe is a fantastic alternative for those seeking a delicious centerpiece without the need for oven space or an entire turkey. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion like Christmas dinner or a Thanksgiving turkey feast, this recipe promises a tender and moist turkey breast that will leave your guests impressed.

Gone are the days of worrying about dry turkey – with the help of an electric pressure cooker and some key ingredients like olive oil, fresh herbs, and a flavorful herb butter mixture, you can ensure a moist and flavorful turkey breast every time. The use of high pressure and a carefully calculated cooking time, along with the assistance of a meat thermometer, guarantees that your turkey breast will be cooked to perfection.

This Instant Pot turkey breast recipe is not only easy to execute but also offers flexibility, allowing you to choose between bone-in or boneless turkey breast, depending on your preference. The addition of a cooking liquid, such as chicken broth, along with aromatic ingredients like lemon zest, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, infuses the turkey with delightful flavors. The Instant Pot’s quick release and natural pressure release options contribute to the overall simplicity of the process.

Once your  Instant Pot turkey breast is ready, the aromatic scent filling your kitchen will be irresistible. The crispy skin and tender meat make this dish a family favorite and a great way to enjoy leftover turkey sandwiches in the days that follow. With this recipe card in hand, you’ll have a foolproof guide to creating a perfect turkey breast roast, leaving you with more time to focus on side dishes and enjoying the holiday season with your loved ones.

Instant Pot Lemon and Herb Turkey Breast

Important: This recipe requires an 8 quart (or larger) Instant Pot. 

Prep: 10 minutes

Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

• 1 (6 to 7 pound) turkey breast
• 1 ½ cup water
• 2 lemons, halved
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 bunch fresh thyme
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground sage
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

Instructions

1. Test to make sure your turkey breast will fit into your electric pressure cooker with the trivet.
2. Place the trivet into the electric pressure cooker. To the electric pressure cooker, add the amount of water recommended by the manufacturer, typically 1 cup to 1 ½ cups.
3. Remove any turkey pieces (like the neck) or gravy packets included inside the turkey breast. Stuff the turkey cavity with halved lemons (place any lemons that do not fit into the turkey in the bottom of the electric pressure cooker,) fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme.
4. Mix the dried seasonings together. 
5. Coat the turkey with olive oil and rub it with the seasoning blend. Place the turkey on the trivet in the pressure cooker.
6. Close the pressure cooker and set the value to sealing. Set the pressure cooker to “manual” or “pressure cook” on high for 30 minutes. When the cycle is complete, let the pressure cooker naturally release for 10 minutes before setting the valve to quick release. Check the internal temperature of the turkey breast using an instant read thermometer. The target temperature is 165 degrees.
7. Carefully lift the turkey breast from the pressure cooker using the trivet. 
8. If a crispy skin is desired, heat the oven broiler. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet or broiler-safe casserole dish. Put under the broiler until crisp, 5 to 10 minutes depending on the distance of the turkey breast from the broiler. Do not overcook. Allow turkey breast to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.

What to serve with lemon and herb turkey breast

A lemon and herb turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its citrusy and herby flavors.

Here are some recommendations for a well-rounded and flavorful Thanksgiving or holiday meal:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, and parsnips tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper enhance the savory profile of the turkey.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and classic side that balances the bright flavors of the lemon and thyme.
3. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the turkey. Consider making a homemade version with fresh cranberries for a burst of flavor.
4. Herb Stuffing: A savory stuffing with herbs like sage, rosemary, and parsley complements the thyme in the turkey, creating a cohesive and delicious combination.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture and a fresh, vibrant element to the meal.
6. Gravy: A rich turkey gravy made from the cooking liquid of the Instant Pot, enriched with the turkey drippings, is essential for adding extra depth and moisture to both the turkey and the side dishes.
7. Crispy Roast Potatoes: Roasted or crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs and garlic make for a satisfying and hearty addition to the meal.
8. Fuji Apple Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, fuji apples, and a delicious vinaigrette can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser.
9. Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls and garlic biscuits are perfect for soaking up the delicious turkey juices and gravy.
10. Cauliflower Mash: For a lower-carb option, consider serving cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes. Season it with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
11. Creamy Cheese Potatoes: these cheesy potato bake are a hit in my family and go well with turkey.

Remember to consider your guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions when planning your menu. With these side dish suggestions, you’ll create a well-balanced and memorable Thanksgiving or holiday feast to accompany your flavorful Lemon and Herb Turkey Breast.

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