Easy Instant Pot Boneless Turkey Breast: Juicy & Flavorful Every Time

Why Cook Boneless Turkey Breast in the Instant Pot?

If you’re looking for a simple, foolproof way to prepare a juicy, flavorful turkey breast, the Instant Pot is your new best friend. This method is perfect for busy weeknights, smaller holiday gatherings, or when you just want a delicious turkey dinner without the fuss of roasting an entire bird. With the Instant Pot, you get tender, moist turkey breast in a fraction of the time—no oven required!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Optional: 2 tablespoons butter for extra richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme or Italian seasoning. This will help lock in moisture and add delicious flavor.
2. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Once it’s hot, add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the turkey breast for about 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Add Broth and Pressure Cook: Pour the chicken broth into the pot. Place the trivet in the bottom and set the seasoned turkey breast on top of it. Secure the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 25-30 minutes (25 minutes for a 2 lb breast, 30 minutes for a 3 lb breast).
4. Natural Release: When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
5. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the turkey breast has reached at least 165°F (74°C). If not, seal and cook for a few more minutes.
6. Rest and Slice: Remove the turkey breast from the Instant Pot and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy and tender.

Tasty Variations & Flavor Tips

• Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh rosemary or sage with the broth for extra aroma.
• Citrus Twist: Add a few lemon slices or orange zest to brighten up the flavor.
• Butter Finish: Brush the cooked turkey breast with melted butter and broil for a couple of minutes to crisp up the outside.
• Gravy Bonus: Use the leftover cooking liquid to make a quick gravy. Just whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water and simmer on “Sauté” until thickened.

Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot boneless turkey breast is incredibly versatile! Serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or stuffing for a comforting meal. It’s also fantastic sliced thin for sandwiches or salads throughout the week.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

• Storage: Place leftover turkey slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: To keep it moist, reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of broth or cover with foil and warm in a low oven.

Troubleshooting & Tips for Success

• Avoid Overcooking: Turkey breast is lean and can dry out if overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer for best results.
• If Undercooked: Simply return it to the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for another 3-5 minutes.
• No Trivet? You can use onion slices or halved carrots as a makeshift rack under your turkey.
• Add Veggies: Try adding potatoes or carrots around the turkey for a one-pot meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Bottom Line

If you want a stress-free way to enjoy juicy, flavorful turkey breast any time of year, give this Instant Pot method a try! It’s quick, easy, and delivers delicious results every time—perfect for small family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy your perfectly cooked boneless turkey breast!