Unlock the secret to a perfectly tender, incredibly juicy, and flavor-packed turkey breast with your Instant Pot! Seasoned meticulously with aromatic butter, garlic, and a blend of savory herbs, this recipe transforms a simple turkey breast into a show-stopping main course, ready in under an hour. Served with a rich, homemade gravy crafted from the turkey’s own drippings, it’s an effortless holiday centerpiece that guarantees rave reviews and frees up precious oven space for all your favorite side dishes. Forget dry, bland turkey; welcome to the era of succulent, stress-free holiday feasting!
For those special occasions or smaller holiday gatherings, an Instant Pot turkey breast offers an elegant and satisfying alternative to a whole bird. It’s not only incredibly convenient, saving you significant time and effort, but it also delivers consistently delicious results every single time. Imagine a Thanksgiving or Christmas meal where your turkey is cooked to perfection without tying up your main oven, leaving you ample room to roast potatoes, bake casseroles, and warm rolls. This recipe is designed for both novice and experienced cooks, promising a simple yet sophisticated dish that will impress your guests.
A whole turkey breast is a fantastic choice for any celebratory meal. Its inherent flavor, elegant presentation, and ability to generously feed family and friends make it a reliable favorite. This Instant Pot turkey breast recipe is a game-changer, taking less than an hour from start to finish to produce a remarkably moist and flavorful bird. It’s the ultimate solution for managing multiple dishes during busy holiday cooking, ensuring your oven remains available for other culinary masterpieces.
Complete your festive spread by pairing your succulent turkey with classic side dishes such as homemade cranberry sauce, creamy make-ahead mashed potatoes, and savory traditional turkey stuffing!
Table of Contents
- Instant Pot Turkey Breast Ingredients
- How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Breast
- Homemade Instant Pot Turkey Gravy
- Expert Tips for the Perfect Turkey
- Recipe FAQs
- Delicious Flavor Variations
- Side Dishes to Serve with Turkey
- Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe Card
Instant Pot Turkey Breast Ingredients
Crafting this succulent Instant Pot turkey breast requires a carefully selected list of ingredients that work in harmony to deliver maximum flavor and tenderness. You’ll need a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast, softened butter, a quartet of aromatic spices (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme), salt, black pepper, savory chicken broth, a mirepoix base of onion, carrot, and celery, and a touch of cornstarch for the gravy. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, refer to the recipe card below. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can also add a beautiful touch for garnishing your finished bird.
- Turkey Breast: Opt for a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast whenever possible. The bone helps to conduct heat evenly and adds flavor, while the skin helps retain moisture and can be crisped up at the end for an irresistible texture. If your turkey breast is frozen, remember to thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator before cooking, or consult our FAQ section for adjustments on cooking from frozen.
- Butter: Butter is the secret weapon here. It not only serves as a delicious base for the seasonings, infusing the turkey with rich flavor, but its soft texture also makes it incredibly easy to spread the herb and spice mixture evenly over and under the turkey skin, ensuring every bite is seasoned to perfection.
- Chicken Broth: The chicken broth is essential for two reasons. First, it provides the necessary liquid for the Instant Pot to come to pressure, steaming and infusing the turkey with deep, savory flavor as it cooks. Second, these flavorful juices become the foundation for your rich, homemade gravy. Choose a high-quality chicken broth or even make your own for an extra layer of taste. If you’re a seasoned turkey cook, consider making your own turkey broth for unparalleled depth.
- Aromatic Vegetables: Onion, carrot, and celery aren’t just for adding a subtle flavor to the broth; they also act as a natural trivet, slightly elevating the turkey and preventing it from sitting directly in the liquid, contributing to a more evenly cooked breast and a cleaner broth for gravy.
- Seasonings: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper creates a classic, comforting flavor profile that complements the turkey beautifully. Smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth and subtle smoky note.
How to Make Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Preparing a delicious, moist turkey breast in your Instant Pot is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect holiday main course:
- Prepare the Seasoned Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and you have a smooth, aromatic paste.
- Season the Turkey: Gently loosen the skin of your bone-in, skin-on turkey breast. Carefully spread about half of the prepared butter mixture directly onto the turkey meat under the skin. This ensures maximum flavor penetration and helps keep the meat incredibly moist. Then, spread the remaining butter mixture generously over the top of the turkey skin.
- Layer the Instant Pot: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Add the peeled and roughly chopped carrots, sliced onion, and chopped celery to the broth. These vegetables will not only infuse the broth with flavor but also act as a natural trivet, elevating the turkey slightly from the liquid.
- Position the Turkey: Place a metal trivet (often included with your Instant Pot, or available for purchase separately) into the pot. Carefully set the seasoned turkey breast on top of the trivet.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring it’s properly sealed. Turn the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Set your Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode on high pressure for 30 minutes for a typical 6-7 pound turkey breast (adjust cooking time if your turkey breast is a different size; see tips below).
- Natural and Manual Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. This crucial step helps keep the turkey breast juicy. After 10 minutes, carefully switch the steam release valve to the “Venting” position to manually release any remaining pressure. Once the float valve drops, it’s safe to open the lid.
- Crispy Skin (Optional but Recommended): For that desirable golden, crispy skin, carefully transfer the cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet. Preheat your oven broiler. Broil the turkey for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy texture. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Rest, Slice, and Serve: Let the turkey breast rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and moist turkey. Slice against the grain, then serve with the homemade gravy and your chosen side dishes. Enjoy!
Homemade Instant Pot Turkey Gravy
One of the most fantastic benefits of cooking your turkey breast in the Instant Pot is the abundance of flavorful juices and drippings left behind, creating the perfect base for an incredible homemade gravy. Don’t let these precious liquids go to waste!
To craft your rich gravy: first, use a slotted spoon to remove and discard the cooked carrots, celery, and onions from the Instant Pot. These vegetables have already lent their flavor to the broth. Next, switch your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and bring the flavorful liquid to a gentle simmer. In a separate small bowl, whisk together two tablespoons of cornstarch with three tablespoons of cold water until a smooth slurry forms (this prevents lumps). Once the Instant Pot liquid is simmering, slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Continue to stir gently as the gravy simmers for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken to your desired consistency. Finally, stir in the remaining two tablespoons of butter for extra richness, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer this magnificent gravy to a serving container and prepare for a chorus of compliments.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Turkey
Achieving a truly perfect Instant Pot turkey breast goes beyond just following the steps. These expert tips will elevate your turkey from great to unforgettable, ensuring a moist, flavorful, and beautifully cooked bird every time.
- Consider Brining for Enhanced Flavor and Moisture: For an even more flavorful and incredibly moist turkey, consider using a turkey brine recipe for 12 hours before pressure cooking. Brining infuses the meat with moisture and seasoning, resulting in unparalleled tenderness and taste. It’s an extra step that makes a significant difference.
- Choosing the Right Turkey Cut: While this recipe primarily focuses on a whole bone-in, skin-on turkey breast, you have flexibility. You can also use a half breast or a boneless turkey roast. Apply the same seasoning method, but be sure to reduce the cooking time accordingly for smaller or boneless cuts to prevent overcooking. Generally, boneless cuts cook faster.
- Estimating Servings Like a Pro: When planning your holiday meal, a good rule of thumb is to purchase approximately 1 pound of turkey per guest. For instance, a 6-pound turkey breast will comfortably serve 6 people. If you’re hoping for delicious leftovers (and who isn’t?), aim for a slightly more generous 1 1/2 pounds per person.
- The Importance of a Trivet: This recipe calls for a trivet, which is a metal rack that lifts the turkey above the liquid in the Instant Pot. This is crucial as it allows the turkey to steam cook rather than boil, ensuring an even cook and preventing the bottom of the breast from becoming waterlogged. Many Instant Pot models come with a trivet, or you can easily purchase one online.
- Always Use a Meat Thermometer: The single most important tool for ensuring a perfectly cooked and safe turkey is a meat thermometer. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should register at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). This guarantees your turkey is fully cooked without being dry.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Once cooked, it’s tempting to slice into that delicious turkey immediately. However, allowing the turkey breast to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking is vital. This resting period gives the muscle fibers a chance to relax and reabsorb the juices, resulting in a significantly more tender and moist bird. If you cut it too soon, those precious juices will run out onto your cutting board.
- Achieving Crispy Skin: While the Instant Pot excels at creating moist turkey, it won’t give you crispy skin. That’s where the broiler comes in! A quick 4-5 minute session under a hot broiler (watching carefully!) will transform the softened skin into a beautifully browned, irresistibly crispy layer. Alternatively, an air fryer can also achieve similar results.
- Maximizing Leftovers: A delicious turkey breast often means delightful leftovers! Don’t let any go to waste. Transform your extra turkey into a creamy and hearty turkey tetrazzini, flavorful sandwiches, or vibrant salads. Explore a full list of creative leftover turkey recipes for inspiration.
Quick Tip
Always rely on a meat thermometer to confirm doneness. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the breast; the temperature should reach a minimum of 165°F (74°C) for safe and delicious consumption.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can cook a frozen turkey breast in a pressure cooker, though thawing it first generally yields better flavor and a more consistent texture. If cooking from frozen, follow the recipe instructions but increase the cooking time to approximately 7 minutes per pound. Additionally, extend the natural pressure release time to 20 minutes to ensure thorough cooking and tenderness.
For a thawed turkey breast, plan on cooking for about 5 minutes per pound on high pressure. A common bone-in, skin-on turkey breast typically weighs around 6-7 pounds. Therefore, expect a cooking time of approximately 30-35 minutes, followed by a crucial 10-minute natural pressure release. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
Leftover Instant Pot turkey breast will remain fresh and delicious when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen turkey in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
A 6-quart Instant Pot is generally sufficient for a typical 6-7 pound bone-in turkey breast. If you have a larger 8-quart model, it will provide even more space, making it easier to place the turkey and vegetables. Ensure your turkey breast fits comfortably within the pot without exceeding the max fill line.
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Delicious Flavor Variations
While this recipe is incredibly delicious as written, the beauty of Instant Pot turkey breast lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors to match your personal preferences or the theme of your meal. Here are some fantastic ways to switch up the seasonings and create a unique culinary experience:
- Experiment with Seasoning Blends: Feel free to swap out the individual spices for a pre-made or custom spice blend. Try a robust turkey rub for a traditional holiday flavor, a zesty Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick, classic poultry seasoning for a familiar taste, or even a bold blackened seasoning for a unique twist. Each blend will bring its own character to the turkey.
- Infuse with Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme works wonderfully, incorporating fresh herbs can add a vibrant, aromatic depth. Replace the dried thyme with finely chopped fresh parsley, sage, or rosemary for a more pronounced herbaceous note. You can also create a fresh herb butter by blending softened butter with minced fresh herbs. For convenience, a dried herb blend like Italian seasoning or Greek seasoning can also be used.
- Add a Touch of Zesty Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or finely grated lemon zest mixed into the butter can brighten the overall flavor profile of the turkey, adding a subtle tang that complements the savory herbs beautifully.
- Incorporate Aromatics: Beyond the standard onion, carrot, and celery, consider adding other aromatics to the Instant Pot liquid for an extra layer of flavor. Garlic cloves (smashed), bay leaves, or even a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme can further enhance the broth, making the gravy even more complex and delicious.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: If you enjoy the distinct flavor of olive oil, you can mix a tablespoon or two into your seasoned butter mixture. This adds a subtle fruity note and can contribute to a slightly richer exterior.
Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this Instant Pot turkey recipe is designed to impress. It’s full of incredible flavor, incredibly moist, and wonderfully easy to prepare, ensuring a delightful meal for any crowd!
Side Dishes To Serve With Turkey
A magnificent turkey breast deserves an equally magnificent supporting cast of side dishes. Here are some perfect pairings that will complete your holiday feast or special dinner:
Corn Souffle Recipe
50 mins
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
1 hr 20 mins
Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
40 mins
Honey Glazed Carrots
20 mins
Cauliflower Casserole
1 hr
Instant Pot Turkey Breast Video Overview
For a visual guide to making this incredible Instant Pot turkey breast, imagine a step-by-step video demonstration that brings the recipe to life. From preparing the seasoned butter and coating the turkey to layering the Instant Pot and achieving that perfect crispy skin, a comprehensive video would walk you through each stage. It would highlight key techniques like loosening the turkey skin, safely releasing pressure, and creating the rich, savory gravy from the pot drippings. While a direct video embed is not included here, visualize this dynamic guide making your cooking experience even smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring you achieve a perfectly cooked turkey every time.
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Instant Pot Turkey Breast
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Ingredients
For the turkey
- 6 lb bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 7 tablespoons butter softened, divided use
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion peeled and cut into 1 inch thick slices
- 1 carrot peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 stalk celery cut into 1 inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
- fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
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Place the 5 tablespoons of butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir until combined.
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Loosen the skin of the turkey. Spread half of the butter mixture under the skin of the turkey and spread half all over the top of the turkey.
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Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of an Instant Pot. Add the onion, carrot and celery to the broth.
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Place a trivet in the pot, then place the turkey breast in the trivet.
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Close the lid of the pot and turn the vent to the sealing position.
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Set the pot to manual high pressure for 30 minutes (add 5 more minutes per pound if you’re using a larger turkey breast)
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After the cook time has ended, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release the pressure.
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Transfer the turkey breast to a baking sheet. Preheat the broiler.
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Broil the turkey for 4-5 minutes or until skin is browned and crispy.
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Use a skimmer or slotted spoon to remove the vegetables from the pot. Discard the vegetables.
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Set the pot to the Saute function and bring the liquid to a simmer. Whisk together the corn starch with 3 tablespoons cold water.
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After the liquid has come to a simmer, whisk in the corn starch mixture. Bring to a boil, and cook for 1-2 minutes or until gravy has thickened. Whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, plus salt and pepper to taste.
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Slice the turkey and serve with the gravy. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Try brining your turkey breast for 12 hours before you cook it for even more flavor!
- While I typically use a whole turkey breast for this recipe, you can also use a half breast or a boneless turkey roast. You can season these other cuts the same way, just reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- I recommend using a meat thermometer to confirm that your turkey is cooked all the way through. Simply insert the thermometer probe into the thickest part of the breast. The temperature should read at least 165 degrees F.
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