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Cozy Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast for Two

maple bourbon glazed turkey breast for two - featured image

A perfectly portioned maple bourbon glazed turkey breast for two, featuring a sticky-sweet glaze and tender, juicy meat. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a small celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (2 to 2.5 pound) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • For the optional dry brine: 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. The night before or at least 4 hours before cooking, pat the turkey breast dry. Mix dry brine ingredients and rub all over turkey, including under skin. Refrigerate uncovered on a plate or wire rack.
  2. About 30 minutes before roasting, remove turkey from fridge to come to room temperature. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, bourbon, butter, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme. Whisk until butter melts and mixture simmers for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
  3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place turkey breast skin side up in a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet. If not brined, season generously with salt and pepper. Pour chicken broth into bottom of pan.
  4. Roast for 30 minutes. Remove pan, brush a generous layer of glaze over turkey skin. Return to oven. Repeat glazing every 15-20 minutes for a total of 3-4 glazes.
  5. Total roasting time is about 60-75 minutes. Turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of breast (not touching bone) reads 155°F (68°C). If skin gets too dark, tent with foil.
  6. Remove from oven and let rest in pan for 15-20 minutes. Carve breast off bone and slice against the grain. Drizzle with pan juices and serve.

Notes

Dry brine is highly recommended for best flavor and juiciness. Watch glaze carefully to prevent burning; tent with foil if needed. Let turkey rest 15-20 minutes before carving. Leftover glaze can be thinned with broth and served as sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bourbon glazed turkey breast, turkey for two, small turkey recipe, cozy dinner, Thanksgiving for two