There’s something truly magical about a dish that can steal the spotlight at any festive gathering, and this Instant Pot turkey breast has done just that for me. A few years ago, as I was preparing for a cozy Thanksgiving with just a handful of close friends, I stumbled upon this recipe. It was a game changer! The tender, juicy turkey, flavored with butter, garlic, and herbs, quickly became a staple in my holiday menu. This recipe is the perfect solution for hosting intimate holiday dinners when you want to keep things simple yet impressive. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this turkey breast, with its homemade gravy, is an elegant choice that feels both classic and contemporary.
The beauty of using an Instant Pot for your turkey breast is the sheer efficiency it offers. Not only does it allow you to free up valuable oven space, but it also guarantees a perfectly cooked turkey in under an hour! Add to that the bonus of homemade gravy made from flavorful pan drippings, and you’ve got yourself a winner.
Serving a turkey breast is always a crowd-pleaser because of its succulent taste and visually pleasing presentation. This recipe doesn’t take much time, yet it ensures flawlessly cooked turkey every single try. It’s an ideal choice when you need to multi-task in the kitchen or have other dishes that need oven time.
For the ultimate experience, consider complementing your turkey with sides like homemade cranberry sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, and stuffing. These classic pairings not only complete the meal but also create a holiday table ambiance that everyone will cherish.
Instant Pot Turkey Breast Ingredients
This dish calls for a bone-in skin-on turkey breast, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, chicken broth, onion, carrot, celery, and corn starch. Detailed amounts and instructions are available in the recipe card. Consider garnishing with a handful of fresh herbs for a pop of color and aroma.
How To Prepare This Delicious Turkey
Begin by blending butter with garlic, herbs, and spices in a mixing bowl. Coat the turkey breast thoroughly with this butter mix. Into your Instant Pot, pour chicken broth and scatter sliced carrots, onions, and chopped celery. Set the turkey breast on a trivet within the pot, seal the lid, and pressure cook to achieve perfectly cooked turkey. Allow a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. If you fancy crispy skin, a quick broil will do the trick. Slice and serve the turkey for a satisfying meal.
Making The Gravy
One of the best parts of this recipe is the abundance of drippings perfect for making gravy! Start by removing the veggies from the pot with a slotted spoon. Set the pot to sauté, get the liquid simmering, then mix in a corn starch slurry. After it thickens slightly, add butter, salt, and pepper. Pour the gravy into your favorite serving dish and prepare for a feast!
Tips For Success
Brine the turkey for 12 hours if you want to elevate the flavor profile even more! Whether using a whole breast or a boneless roast, adjust cooking times accordingly. Plan for one pound of turkey per guest or 1.5 lbs for leftovers. Ensure precise cooking by using a meat thermometer to reach a minimum of 165°F. Need a trivet? Your pot may already have one, or they are available online.
Frequent Questions
Can you make this dish with a frozen turkey breast? Yes, but the flavors are improved if thawed first. For frozen, cook for 7 minutes per pound and release pressure manually after 20 minutes. How long should the turkey be in the pot? Approximately 5 minutes per pound for the perfect tenderness.
Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving this delightful turkey, style it on a chic platter surrounded by colorful veggies or potatoes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the look! For added warmth, serve the turkey with a ladle of your home-cooked gravy and watch as your guests dive in for a flavorful experience they won’t soon forget.
