Are you tired of feeling guilty after devouring a traditional Thanksgiving dinner? Get ready to transform your holiday feast with this mouthwatering low-calorie turkey breast recipe that proves healthy eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor! Imagine enjoying a delicious, tender turkey that's packed with herbs and nutrients, without the extra calories - this recipe is about to become your new holiday secret weapon.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 turkey breast (4-5 lbs)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tsp herbs de Provence
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Ensure the turkey breast is completely thawed and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large roasting pan, spread the chopped celery, carrots, and onion evenly across the bottom to create a flavorful vegetable base for the turkey.
- Gently season the turkey breast with herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over the entire surface of the turkey, including under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the vegetable bed in the roasting pan. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the meat moist and create a light sauce.
- Cover the roasting pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and help retain moisture during cooking.
- Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven. Calculate cooking time based on weight - approximately 20 minutes per pound. For a 4-5 lb turkey breast, expect about
- 5 to 2 hours of cooking time.
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown and crisp slightly.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast.
- Once cooked, remove from oven and let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender meat.
- Carefully transfer the turkey to a serving platter. Strain the vegetables and cooking liquid to create a light, low-calorie gravy if desired.
Tips
- Thawing is Crucial: Always ensure your turkey breast is completely thawed before cooking to guarantee even cooking and optimal texture.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the turkey breast. This helps achieve a more crisp and golden exterior.
- Herb Infusion Technique: Don't just sprinkle herbs on top - gently rub them under the skin to maximize flavor penetration.
- Vegetable Base Trick: The chopped vegetables aren't just a side note - they create a flavor-packed base that keeps your turkey moist and adds extra nutrition.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Resting Period Matters: Let your turkey rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute juices, ensuring each slice is incredibly tender and moist.
- Low-Sodium Broth Hack: Using low-sodium chicken broth keeps the flavor high while controlling salt intake.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg
