Ever found yourself short on time but craving a delicious, juicy turkey breast? Guess what – your microwave can be your secret weapon! While it might not give you that crispy skin, it’s an incredibly quick and easy way to cook a tender turkey breast, perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or when you just need a smaller portion without heating up the whole oven. Let’s dive into how you can make a tasty turkey breast using just your microwave.
Contents
Why Microwave Turkey Breast?
Cooking turkey breast in the microwave is surprisingly efficient. It’s fantastic for those moments when:
- You’re pressed for time.
- You want to avoid turning on the oven for a small dish.
- You need a straightforward, fuss-free cooking method.
- You’re cooking for one or two and don’t need a whole bird.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- Turkey Breast: A boneless, skinless turkey breast or tenderloin (around 1-1.5 pounds works best).
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs (like thyme, rosemary, sage) – customize to your taste!
- Liquid: 1/4 to 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth, water, or even a splash of white wine.
Equipment:
- Microwave-Safe Dish: With a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap.
- Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking doneness.
Your Simple Steps to Microwave Turkey Breast
Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps for a perfectly cooked, tender turkey breast:
Step 1: Prep Your Turkey
- If your turkey breast is frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed before you start.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better.
- Trim any excess fat or skin if present (though boneless, skinless is recommended).
Step 2: Season It Up!
- Rub your chosen seasonings all over the turkey breast. Don’t be shy – this is where the flavor comes from!
- For extra flavor, consider making a quick marinade (like olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs) and let the turkey sit in it for 15-30 minutes, if time allows.
Step 3: Arrange in Dish
- Place the seasoned turkey breast in a microwave-safe dish.
- Pour the liquid (broth, water, etc.) around the turkey. This creates steam, keeping the turkey moist.
Step 4: Cover and Cook
- Cover the dish tightly with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, poke a few small holes for steam to escape.
- Microwave on HIGH for about 4-6 minutes per pound. For a 1-pound turkey breast, start with 4 minutes.
- After the initial cooking time, carefully flip the turkey breast. Re-cover the dish.
- Continue microwaving on HIGH, checking every 2-3 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Slice
- Once cooked, remove the dish from the microwave. Keep it covered and let the turkey breast rest for 5-10 minutes. This is a crucial step! Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result.
- After resting, carefully remove the turkey from the dish and slice it against the grain into desired thickness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for a Super Juicy Turkey Breast
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Turkey breast is mild, so season generously.
- Add Liquid: Always use broth or water to create steam, preventing dryness.
- Cover It Up: A tight cover traps moisture and helps cook evenly.
- Check Temperature: A meat thermometer is your best friend to ensure it’s cooked safely (165°F / 74°C) without overcooking.
- Let It Rest: This step is non-negotiable for tender, juicy meat.
- Slice Against the Grain: This makes the meat much more tender to eat.
- Flavor Boost: Add onion slices, lemon wedges, or fresh herbs to the dish with your liquid for extra aroma and taste.
Flavor Variations to Try
Get creative with your turkey breast by experimenting with different flavor profiles:
- Herby: A blend of rosemary, thyme, and sage.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
- Garlic Lemon: Fresh garlic cloves and lemon slices in the dish with the broth.
- Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce or teriyaki sauce instead of broth, along with ginger and garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
Microwave turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Steamed vegetables (broccoli, green beans, carrots)
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Rice or quinoa
- A fresh garden salad
- Whole-grain bread or rolls
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any delicious leftovers, store them properly:
- Storage: Once cooled, transfer the sliced turkey to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: For best results, gently reheat turkey slices in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep them moist. Reheat until just warm to avoid drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I cook a bone-in turkey breast in the microwave?
It’s generally not recommended. Bone-in turkey breast cooks much less evenly in a microwave, making it difficult to ensure it’s fully cooked through without overcooking other parts. Boneless, skinless is best for microwave cooking.
Will microwave turkey breast brown like oven-roasted?
No, the microwave won’t create a crispy, browned skin like an oven or pan-searing. The goal here is tender, moist meat, not a browned exterior.
Do I need to thaw frozen turkey breast before microwaving?
Yes, absolutely. Always thaw your turkey breast completely before attempting to cook it in the microwave to ensure even cooking and food safety.
Is it safe to cook raw turkey in the microwave?
Yes, it is safe as long as you follow proper cooking instructions, ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and allow it to rest. Microwaves cook food by heating water molecules from the inside out.
What type of turkey breast is best for microwaving?
Boneless, skinless turkey breast tenderloins or small whole turkey breasts (1-1.5 lbs) are ideal. Their uniform shape helps them cook more evenly in the microwave.
Enjoy Your Quick & Easy Turkey!
Cooking turkey breast in the microwave is a fantastic option for anyone seeking convenience without sacrificing flavor or tenderness. It’s a simple, straightforward method that delivers delicious results every time. Give it a try and enjoy a healthy, protein-packed meal with minimal effort!