Marinated Turkey Breast Recipe

Name: Marinated Turkey Breast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 300 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil; 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 (3 pound) boneless turkey breast halves; 6 whole cloves; 0.25 cup vegetable oil; 0.25 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
teaspoon ground black pepper
2 (3 pound) boneless turkey breast halves
6 whole cloves
cup vegetable oil
cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar

Directions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together garlic, basil, and black pepper. Rub the mixture over the turkey breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Insert one clove into each end of the turkey breasts, and place one in the center for added flavor.

Step 3: In a large, shallow dish, combine vegetable oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Place the turkey breasts in the marinade, turning them to coat thoroughly. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Preheat your grill to high heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Remove the turkey from the marinade, discarding the marinade. Place the turkey breasts on the preheated grill.

Step 7: Close the grill lid and cook the turkey for about 15 minutes on each side, or until the turkey is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165F (74C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	317
Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	2g
Protein	60g
Cholesterol	164mg
Sodium	405mg
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	1g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	31mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	597mg

History and Origin

The tradition of marinating poultry dates back centuries and has evolved across various cultures. Marinated turkey breast, in particular, gained popularity in the United States during the 20th century. The concept of marinating meats was influenced by diverse cooking styles from around the world, particularly those from Asia and the Mediterranean. The use of soy sauce, herbs, and spices in marinades reflects a fusion of Eastern and Western culinary techniques, offering a perfect balance of savory and aromatic flavors.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of marinated turkey breast is widely used in many parts of the world, each region brings its own unique twist to the dish. In the United States, for example, the use of soy sauce and brown sugar in marinades is popular, often accompanied by herbs like basil, garlic, and rosemary. In contrast, Mediterranean regions might use olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano to infuse the turkey with bright, fresh flavors. The Turkish cuisine, known for its bold and complex marinades, may incorporate yogurt and spices like cumin and paprika to marinate turkey, making the flavor profile richer and more intense.

What Makes It Different?

Marinated turkey breast stands out compared to other turkey dishes due to the marinade's ability to tenderize the meat and infuse it with deep flavors. Unlike traditional roasted turkey, which can sometimes be dry or bland, marinating the turkey ensures that it remains juicy and full of flavor throughout. The addition of ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice adds layers of sweetness, acidity, and umami, elevating the overall taste of the dish. Grilling the turkey after marinating it imparts a smoky char, further enhancing the richness of the flavors.

Where Is It Typically Served?

Marinated turkey breast is often served in a variety of settings, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The versatility of this dish allows it to be enjoyed year-round, either as the main entre or as part of a larger spread. It pairs wonderfully with side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fresh salads. In more casual settings, marinated turkey breast can be sliced thinly and used in sandwiches or wraps, making it an ideal choice for lunch or picnics.

Interesting Facts

Turkey is one of the leanest meats, making marinated turkey breast a healthier option compared to other meats like beef or pork.
The use of soy sauce in marinades was introduced to the Western world by Japanese immigrants in the 19th century, revolutionizing flavor profiles in many cuisines.
Marinating meat before cooking helps to retain moisture, which is why marinated turkey breast tends to remain tender and juicy even after grilling or roasting.
Some chefs recommend marinating the turkey breast for up to 48 hours for the most intense flavor, though even a few hours can make a noticeable difference.

FAQ about Marinated Turkey Breast Recipe

After marinating the turkey breast, it should be stored in the refrigerator. Ensure the turkey is tightly covered or in an airtight container to prevent contamination and maintain freshness. It can be stored for up to 2 days before cooking. If you need to store the cooked turkey, it can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Yes, you can freeze the marinated turkey breast. Place the marinated turkey in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before grilling or baking.

Yes, you can make substitutions based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, you can replace lemon juice with vinegar (such as red wine or balsamic), soy sauce can be substituted with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option, or you can use dried basil instead of fresh. You can also experiment with other spices like cumin or paprika in place of the cloves for a different flavor profile.

It is recommended to marinate the turkey for at least 4 hours, but for best results, marinate the turkey overnight. This allows the marinade to fully penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor and moisture.

Yes, you can cook the marinated turkey breast in the oven instead of grilling. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook the turkey for about 60-75 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can baste the turkey with some of the marinade during cooking for added flavor.

If the turkey is dry after cooking, it could be due to overcooking. To prevent this in the future, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove the turkey from heat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the turkey is already dry, consider slicing it thinly and serving it with a flavorful sauce or gravy.

For extra flavor, you can try injecting the turkey with a marinade or brine before cooking, or baste it with additional marinade while grilling. You can also experiment by adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the marinade or using smoked salt for a unique flavor.

The turkey breast takes approximately 30 minutes to cook on a preheated outdoor grill, about 15 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary based on the size of the turkey breast and the grill's heat level.

Yes, you can cook the turkey breast on the stovetop. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add some oil, and sear the turkey breast on both sides for about 4-5 minutes each. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

The best way to check if the turkey breast is cooked through is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast; when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), it is safe to eat.

Marinated turkey breast pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular choices include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or stuffing. You can also serve it with a light sauce or gravy made from the drippings or the remaining marinade.

Comments

Gregory Wilson

05/21/2025 04:58:17 AM

I have found the ultimate holiday turkey recipe and it has changed my cooking game forever! Gone are the days of traditional roasting - marinating the turkey breast overnight and slow-cooking it in the crockpot has been a game-changer. I opted to skip the cloves, as they're not my favorite, but I couldn't resist putting butter slices under the skin for that extra richness. Cooking the turkey in the crockpot was a breeze! No more constant checking and worrying about it being under or overcooked. The flavor was out of this world! The soy sauce acted as the perfect brine, infusing the meat with delicious seasonings throughout. The result? A wonderfully moist, flavorful, and perfectly cooked turkey. I even got a nice browning on mine by using a cast aluminum crockpot instead of ceramic. This crockpot turkey recipe inspired me to keep my mashed potatoes, gravy, and stuffing warm in their own crockpots, freeing up the oven for other dishes. It made the holiday meal prep so much smoother and less stressful. Thank you for sharing this amazing recipe!

Stephen Rodriguez

05/07/2025 08:57:03 AM

Absolutely delicious! I decided to use turkey breast tenderloin for its lean quality and it turned out fantastic. I made a few substitutions, like using peppercorns instead of cloves for a different flavor profile, maple syrup instead of brown sugar due to pantry constraints, and red wine vinegar instead of lemon as per another reviewer's recommendation. I marinated the turkey for just 2 hours and baked it in the same dish, turning it a few times until it was slightly browned on the outside and cooked through. We enjoyed it as the main course the first night with a side salad, then as a turkey and Swiss sandwich for lunch the next day, and finally in turkey wraps with lettuce, cheese, and ranch dressing. Surprisingly, even after all that, I could still go for more if there were leftovers!

Jason Lewis

12/10/2024 12:36:17 PM

We followed this recipe exactly and absolutely adored it! Utilizing our camp chef smoker added a delightful smoky flavor to the meat, resulting in perfection. Our family can't stop raving about how delicious it turned out!

Elizabeth Taylor

03/14/2023 04:17:48 PM

When I stumbled upon this recipe, I had zero experience in cooking a turkey. Despite my initial apprehension, I decided to give it a shot. Fast forward to today, and I now proudly prepare this turkey recipe for Thanksgiving annually. It has received rave reviews and has become a staple dish that is eagerly anticipated each year. I am immensely grateful for discovering and sharing this fantastic recipe.

audio version

Cook Time: 15 minutes