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Easy Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

maple bourbon glazed turkey breast - featured image

This Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast is a happy accident turned go-to recipe, featuring a sticky, caramelized glaze and tender, juicy meat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, it comes together in under 90 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 boneless, skin-on turkey breast (34 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Rub olive oil all over the turkey, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire surface, including under the skin if possible. Let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.
  2. Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine maple syrup, bourbon, butter, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and cayenne (if using). Stir until butter melts and mixture comes together. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and let bubble for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Roast the turkey: Place turkey breast skin-side up in a roasting pan or baking dish. Roast for 30 minutes. Apply a thin layer of glaze with a basting brush. Return to oven and roast for another 10 minutes. Repeat glazing and roasting until about two-thirds of the glaze is used, total roasting time 50-60 minutes. Turkey is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 155Β°F (68Β°C).
  4. Rest and finish: Remove turkey from oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 15 minutes. Warm the remaining glaze; if too thick, add a splash of water or bourbon.
  5. Slice and serve: Transfer rested turkey to a cutting board. Slice against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with reserved warm glaze.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting timeβ€”it allows juices to redistribute. Watch the glaze carefully as it can burn; tent with foil if browning too quickly. Use a thermometer for accuracy. Double the glaze if you want extra for serving. Let turkey come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.

Nutrition

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