Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsBurge's Hickory Smoked Turkeys and HamsBone-in Turkey Breast Recipe

Bone-in Turkey Breast Recipe

Time3h 30m
Serves6

Make Bone-in Turkey Breast Recipe in just 3h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Brine (optional)

Dry Rub & Seasoning

Turkey

Roasting Additions

Method

Brine (optional)

  1. 1

    In a large container, combine 8 cups cold water with 1/2 cup kosher salt and 1/4 cup granulated sugar; stir until dissolved.

  2. 2

    Add bay leaves, 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, 3 smashed garlic cloves, and 2 sprigs of fresh herbs; stir to combine.

  3. 3

    Submerge the bone-in turkey breast in the brine, refrigerate for 8-12 hours.

  4. 4

    Remove the turkey from the brine, rinse under cold water, and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

Dry Rub, Prepare for Roasting

  1. 5

    In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to form a smooth paste.

  2. 6

    Gently loosen the skin over the breast and rub a portion of the paste under the skin, and rub the rest all over the exterior of the turkey. Drizzle 1 tablespoon lemon juice over the surface.

  3. 7

    Let the rubbed turkey sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (177°C).

  4. 8

    Pour 1 cup chicken stock or water into the bottom of a roasting pan and place a rack inside the pan.

Roast and Rest

  1. 9

    Roast in the preheated oven until the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F (74°C). For a 4–5 lb bone-in breast, this is typically about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. Tentatively check at 1 hour 15 minutes.

  2. 10

    Baste the turkey once or twice with pan juices during roasting if desired.

  3. 11

    Remove from oven; tent loosely with foil and let rest 15-20 minutes before carving.

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