Instant Pot Turkey Breast
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
55 mins
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Total Time
1 hr
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Servings
8
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Calories
360 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Description
The recipe begins by rubbing the thawed boneless turkey breast with olive oil and a spice blend of smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, tarragon, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Searing the breast in the Instant Pot with butter and oil caramelizes the surface, contributing deeper flavors and appealing browning. After searing, the turkey rests on a trivet inside the pot for pressure cooking without additional liquid, relying on the moisture from the meat itself.
Pressure cooking on high for 25 minutes cooks the breast thoroughly while preserving juiciness. Following cooking, a gravy is prepared in the pot using butter and flour to make a roux, then chicken broth and half and half are incorporated to create a creamy, seasoned sauce, perfect for serving alongside the turkey.
This turkey breast works well for a main meal and can be paired with classic sides like mashed potatoes or cranberry sauce. The recipe notes alternatives such as slow cooker preparation and encourages using different herbs as preferred.
Storage includes keeping leftovers refrigerated and reheating gently to maintain moisture.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds turkey breast boneless, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon tarragon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken broth low sodium or no sodium added
- ½ cup half and half
Instructions
- Drizzle the tablespoon of olive oil all over the turkey breast and rub it in. I usually do this so that the spices stick to the turkey breast. Rub the turkey well with the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Finish with the minced garlic.
- Turn the Instant Pot to the high sauté setting. (See your manufacturer's guide for detailed instructions on how to use your instant pot). Add the 2 tablespoons of butter and oil and once your instant pot reaches the desired temperature (the timer will start to count down) add the turkey breast. Sear the turkey breast on all sides. Should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer the breast to a plate or a cutting board.
- Add the Instant Pot's wire rack (the trivet), then place the turkey on top, as seen in the video. Close the lid (follow the manufacturer's guide for instructions on how to close the instant pot lid). Set the Instant Pot to the Manual setting and set the timer to 25 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the Instant Pot cycle is complete, wait until the natural release cycle is complete, should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Follow the manufacturer's guide for quick release, if in a rush. Carefully unlock and remove the lid from the instant pot. Transfer the breast to a cutting board, cover completely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before cutting into it. Make sure to remove the butcher twine before slicing it. If crispier skin is desired, broil it in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
For the Gravy
- Turn the Instant Pot to the high sauté setting (don't discard the turkey drippings). Add the 2 tablespoons of butter and cook until the butter is melted. Whisk in the flour with the butter and cook for a couple minutes, stirring or whisking constantly, until the flour loses its raw smell.
- Whisk in the chicken broth and cook and half and half and cook for an additional 3 minutes or until thickened. You can omit the half and half and just use 1 cup of chicken broth or turkey broth. I used half and half for a creamier gravy. Season with salt and pepper as preferred.
Notes
- No additional liquid is required for pressure cooking, but adding water or broth can help prevent burn warnings on some Instant Pot models.
- Searing the turkey breast before pressure cooking enhances flavor and gives a golden brown color but is optional.
- Slow cooker alternative: cook seasoned turkey breast on low for 5-6 hours, then broil for crispier skin if desired.
- Suitable herbs to use alongside or instead of those listed include thyme, rosemary, sage, oregano, or marjoram.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 360 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 360kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 49g | 98% |
| Fat | 16g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 143mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 869mg | 36% |
| Potassium | 614mg | 13% |
| Vitamin A | 720IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 1.4mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 63mg | 6% |
| Iron | 1.8mg | 10% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.5
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