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Tender Herb-Brined Grilled Turkey Breast Recipe Perfect for Holidays

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A flavorful and tender turkey breast brined with fresh herbs and citrus, then grilled to juicy perfection. Perfect for holiday dinners or casual backyard gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (950 ml) water
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred)
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 sprigs fresh sage
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 whole turkey breast (3–4 pounds / 1.4–1.8 kg), skin on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for rubbing)
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional herb rub)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (optional herb rub)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (optional herb rub)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional herb rub)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional herb rub)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (optional herb rub)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine: In a large pot, combine 4 cups water, kosher salt, brown sugar, garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, black peppercorns, and lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat and add 4 cups cold water to cool quickly. Refrigerate until completely chilled (about 1 hour).
  2. Brine the turkey breast: Place turkey breast in a large container or heavy-duty zip bag. Pour cooled brine over turkey, ensuring it is fully submerged. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours. Remove turkey and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Apply the herb rub and oil: Mix chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub olive oil all over turkey breast, then apply herb mixture evenly, massaging into skin and meat.
  4. Preheat the grill: Heat grill to medium-high (about 375°F / 190°C). Oil grates lightly to prevent sticking. If using charcoal, arrange coals for indirect heat.
  5. Grill the turkey breast: Place turkey skin-side down over direct heat for 5 minutes to sear and get grill marks. Move to indirect heat, cover grill, and cook for 35 to 45 minutes, turning halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at thickest part.
  6. Rest the meat: Remove turkey from grill and tent with foil. Let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  7. Slice and serve: Slice turkey against the grain and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not brine longer than 4 hours to avoid overly salty meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness. Oil grill grates to prevent sticking. Rest turkey after grilling to retain juices. For indoor cooking, roast at 350°F for 50-60 minutes covered with foil halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, grilled turkey, herb brine, holiday recipe, Thanksgiving, grilling, tender turkey, easy turkey recipe

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/tender-herb-brined-grilled-turkey-breast-recipe-perfect-for-holidays/