Name: Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Turkey: 1 (3 to 4-pound) boneless turkey breast (skin-on) Maple Glaze: 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried), 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a golden, caramelized turkey wafting from the kitchen to signal that the holidays have truly arrived. Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight delivers a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that make each slice utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting an intimate fall gathering or searching for a stunning centerpiece for a festive table, this recipe promises juicy, flavorful meat draped in a glossy maple glaze, making every bite feel like a warm celebration.

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight lies in its simple, high-impact ingredients. Each one contributes a vital note to the overall flavor symphony—from maple syrup’s deep sweetness to vibrant Dijon and earthy thyme. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious star to life:

Boneless turkey breast (3 to 4 pounds, skin-on): The centerpiece of this dish; skin-on ensures juicy meat and a beautifully crisp finish.
Pure maple syrup (1/3 cup): Use real maple syrup for an authentically bold sweetness and the signature glaze.
Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Adds zesty sharpness for a balanced tang in the glaze.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the glaze coat the turkey and play up a rich mouthfeel.
Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brings bright acidity to offset the maple syrup’s sweetness.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Lends hearty aromatic warmth throughout the turkey.
Fresh thyme or dried thyme (1 teaspoon fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried): Offers a woodsy, herbaceous pop.
Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides subtle heat and depth.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor in the mix and ensures the meat is properly seasoned.
Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Introduces a gentle smokiness and brings gorgeous color to the glaze.

How to Make Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight

Step 1: Prepare the Maple Glaze

Start by grabbing a small mixing bowl, and whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, thyme, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika. This glaze is where all the deep flavors begin to mingle. It should look glossy and aromatic, with a lovely amber shine that signals something special is on its way to your table.

Step 2: Ready the Turkey Breast

Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels—this is key for that crisp, irresistible skin. Place the turkey breast, skin-side up, on a rack inside your roasting pan. The rack boosts air circulation for even cooking, which means each part of the turkey will be perfectly tender and juicy.

Step 3: First Glaze and Initial Roast

Brush the turkey generously with half of your prepared maple glaze, making sure to coat every nook and cranny. This initial layer both flavors and helps form a beautiful crust. Transfer the turkey to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C), and roast for 45 minutes—you’ll already start noticing those delicious holiday aromas drifting through your kitchen.

Step 4: Second Glaze Application

After 45 minutes, pull out the turkey and brush it lavishly with more of the maple glaze. This is where the color deepens and that sticky-sweet exterior really develops. Return the turkey to the oven and continue roasting for another 30 to 40 minutes, until the internal temperature at the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Final Glaze for a Showstopping Finish

During the last 10 minutes of roasting, brush on the remaining glaze to encourage incredible caramelization. This last hit makes all the difference, giving the Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight its trademark shine and deep golden hue.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Let the turkey rest on a carving board for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This helps all those delicious juices redistribute for succulent slices every time. The anticipation is tough, but the payoff is so worth it!

How to Serve Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight

Garnishes

Scatter a handful of fresh thyme sprigs and a few roasted apple wedges or sliced oranges over your platter for a burst of color and fragrance. Not only does this look stunning, but the herbs and fruit quietly echo flavors in the glaze, tying the whole experience together.

Side Dishes

This turkey breast shines alongside classic holiday favorites like roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed sweet potatoes, or a bright, citrusy salad. These sides soak up the extra glaze and add lovely contrast to the rich, savory turkey.

Creative Ways to Present

Sliced thickly for a main course or carved thin for a festive sandwich bar, Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight is as versatile as it is delicious. Try arranging slices fanned out across a large board, dotted with jewel-toned cranberries, for true wow-factor at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Lay slices flat and spoon over a bit of the extra pan juices or glaze before sealing to keep everything moist.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight for up to two months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or use a freezer bag, pressing out as much air as you can. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the turkey slices with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until just heated through. For best results, splash a little broth or reserved glaze over the turkey beforehand to restore its juiciness—it’ll taste as wonderful as the day you made it.

FAQs

Can I use a bone-in turkey breast instead of boneless?

Absolutely! A bone-in turkey breast works beautifully and often yields even juicier slices. Just keep in mind you may need to add 10 to 20 extra minutes to the roasting time; always rely on your meat thermometer for done-ness.

Can I prep the turkey ahead of time?

Yes—you can marinate the turkey breast in half of the glaze for several hours or even overnight. This deepens the flavor and means all you have to do the day-of is pop it in the oven, brush on more glaze, and relax!

What’s the secret to juicy, moist turkey breast?

Patting the meat dry before glazing, not overcooking, and letting it rest before slicing are all essential for maximum juiciness. The maple glaze also acts as a shield, keeping the turkey moist as it roasts.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?

Yes! Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight is naturally gluten-free, so everyone at your table can dig in with confidence. Just make sure your mustard and other condiments are certified gluten-free if necessary.

Can I make this recipe with chicken?

Definitely—this maple glaze is just as delicious on boneless, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since chicken pieces will cook more quickly than turkey breast.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting your first holiday or returning to a tried-and-true tradition, Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight truly brings warmth, ease, and flavor to your table. I hope this recipe becomes a beloved part of your celebrations, creating delicious memories with every slice. Don’t hesitate—gather your loved ones and savor the magic together!

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast: A Perfect Holiday Delight Recipe

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4.7 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Maple Glazed Turkey Breast is a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering. The combination of sweet maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful and juicy turkey that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Turkey:

1 (3 to 4-pound) boneless turkey breast (skin-on)

Maple Glaze:

1/3 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried), 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, thyme, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika.
Prep the turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry and place it on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up.
Glaze the turkey: Brush the turkey breast with half of the maple glaze.
Roast the turkey: Roast for 45 minutes, then brush with more glaze. Continue roasting for 30–40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Final glaze: Brush with glaze during the last 10 minutes for a caramelized finish. Let the turkey rest before slicing.