How Long to Cook a Fully Cooked Jennie-O Turkey Breast: Guide

A fully cooked Jennie-O turkey breast offers incredible convenience and deliciousness. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or a lean protein for sandwiches, these pre-cooked turkey breasts simplify meal prep. The main task? Reheating it to perfection so it’s juicy, tender, and ready to savor.

The secret to a successful reheat lies in reaching the correct internal temperature without drying out the meat. This guide shares exactly how long to cook a fully cooked Jennie-O turkey breast using popular methods, along with essential tips for a perfect result every time.

The Golden Rule: Reheat to 165°F (74°C)

Since your Jennie-O turkey breast is fully cooked, you’re not actually “cooking” it from raw. Instead, you’re gently reheating it to a safe and appetizing serving temperature. The USDA recommends all cooked poultry reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). An accurate meat thermometer is crucial here!

Before You Begin: Essential Prep Steps

Proper preparation ensures even heating and the best texture:

• Thaw Completely: If frozen, transfer to the refrigerator 1-2 days prior. Thawing completely is vital; never attempt to cook a fully cooked turkey breast from frozen, as it leads to uneven heating and dry results.
• Remove Packaging: Take the turkey breast out of its vacuum-sealed or original packaging. Set aside any gravy packets if using later.
• Bring to Room Temperature: For more even heating, let the turkey breast sit on the counter for about 15-30 minutes before reheating. This helps prevent the exterior from drying out while the interior warms up.

Cooking Methods & How Long to Cook a Fully Cooked Jennie-O Turkey Breast

1. Oven Method (Recommended for Best Results)

The oven is often the top choice for reheating, offering the most even heating and helping retain moisture.

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) or 350°F (175°C). 325°F provides a gentler reheat, reducing the risk of drying.
2. Prepare Turkey: Place the turkey breast in a shallow roasting pan or oven-safe dish. Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the pan to create steam and maintain moisture. For extra richness, spread a thin layer of butter or olive oil over the skin.
3. Cover Tightly: Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. This step is crucial for trapping moisture.
4. Reheat Time: For a typical 2-3 lb (around 1-1.5 kg) fully cooked Jennie-O turkey breast, expect 30-60 minutes at 325°F, or 20-40 minutes at 350°F. Time varies by size and starting temperature.
5. Check Temperature: Begin checking the internal temperature after the minimum time. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part (avoiding bones). It’s ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Optional Browning: For crispier skin, remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
7. Rest: Once heated, remove from the oven and let it rest, still covered, for 10-15 minutes before carving.

2. Air Fryer Method (For Crispy Skin & Quicker Reheat)

The air fryer is fantastic for smaller turkey breasts and for achieving a slightly crispy exterior.

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 300-325°F (150-160°C).
2. Prepare Turkey: Lightly coat the turkey breast with oil (e.g., olive oil spray) for browning and moisture. You can add a tablespoon of broth to the basket if your model allows.
3. Reheat Time: For a smaller, boneless turkey breast (1-2 lbs), air fry for 15-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest: Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

3. Microwave Method (Fastest Option)

The microwave is the quickest, but can sometimes lead to uneven heating or a rubbery texture. It’s best for small portions or when time is critical.

1. Prepare Turkey: Slice the turkey breast into desired serving portions (1/2 to 1-inch thick). Place slices in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add Moisture: Drizzle a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water over the slices to prevent drying.
3. Cover & Microwave: Cover with a microwave-safe lid or vented plastic wrap. Microwave on medium-high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Check Temperature: Stir and check with a thermometer. If not yet at 165°F (74°C), continue microwaving in 30-second bursts.

4. Slow Cooker Method (For Larger Breasts or Keeping Warm)

Ideal for larger fully cooked Jennie-O turkey breasts, keeping them warm for gatherings, or a hands-off approach.

1. Prepare Slow Cooker: Place the turkey breast in your slow cooker.
2. Add Liquid: Pour 1/2 to 1 cup of chicken broth, water, or apple cider around the turkey.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 2-4 hours, or on HIGH for 1-2 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The low setting helps maintain moisture.
4. Serve: Once heated, slice and serve.

Pro Tips for a Perfectly Juicy Jennie-O Turkey Breast

• Don’t Overcook! This is paramount. Since it’s already cooked, exceeding 165°F will result in dry, tough meat.
• Trust Your Meat Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is your most reliable tool for achieving perfect reheating results every time.
• The Power of Resting: After reheating, let the turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes (covered) before carving. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and moist slices.
• Keep it Moist: Besides foil and broth, brushing with melted butter or olive oil before reheating adds flavor and moisture.
• Carving Smart: Use a sharp knife and slice against the grain for the most tender pieces.

Serving & Storage

Serving Suggestions

This versatile turkey breast is excellent as a main course with classic sides, perfect for deli-style sandwiches, wraps, salads, or adding to pasta dishes and casseroles.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices or chunks in freezer-safe bags for 2-3 months. Reheat individual portions until 165°F.

Your Top Questions Answered (FAQs)

Q: Can I cook a fully cooked Jennie-O turkey breast from frozen?
A: No, it’s essential to thaw it completely in the refrigerator beforehand. Reheating from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and dry spots.

Q: What’s the best oven temperature for reheating?
A: Most recommend 325°F (160°C) or 350°F (175°C). 325°F is often preferred for a gentler, more even reheat and less risk of drying.

Q: How do I know if my Jennie-O turkey breast is “oven-ready”?
A: “Oven-ready” products typically come in a cooking bag designed for direct oven use. Always check the specific package instructions, as guidelines might differ from a standard fully cooked breast.

Q: How long to cook a fully cooked Jennie-O turkey breast at 350 degrees?
A: For a 2-3 lb breast, plan for 20-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, until it reaches 165°F internal temperature. Always use a meat thermometer.

Q: Do I need to add water to the pan when reheating?
A: Adding a small amount of broth or water to the pan and covering it with foil is highly recommended for oven and slow cooker methods. This creates steam, helping to keep the turkey moist.

Enjoy Your Perfectly Reheated Turkey!

Reheating a fully cooked Jennie-O turkey breast is straightforward. By following these simple guidelines, using a meat thermometer, and choosing the right method for your needs, you’ll achieve a wonderfully moist and flavorful turkey every time. Enjoy your delicious meal!