There’s a simple way you can get a perfect oven-roasted turkey that’s golden-brown and juicy with flavor. Before you carve the turkey, don’t forget to showcase it nicely on the table. Don’t forget to garnish your serving platter with fresh herb sprigs and citrus wedges, so that your Thanksgiving turkey impresses everyone!
This Herb-Roasted Turkey recipe is not only delicious to look at, it is also delicious to eat. By rubbing the outside of the turkey well with oil and herbs, you will get a perfect browned, crispy skin that will fill the house with an amazing herby fragrance. To make the breast meat moist and juicy, do not forget to apply oil under the skin as well. Now no more dry and chewy turkey breasts! And we did not even decide to stop here—the cavity of the turkey has been filled with more flavors and aromatics that will make every bite unbeatable. Just keep a little aside for the leftovers!
Health Benefits
- Turkey is a great source of lean protein, which helps you feel full longer and slows down digestion, making it perfect for stabilizing blood sugar levels.
- It’s rich in B vitamins, which aid in breaking down food and converting it into usable energy.
- Packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health and well-being.
Ingredients
- 10- to 12-pound turkey
- ¼ cup minced fresh herbs, plus 20 whole sprigs (such as thyme, rosemary, sage, oregano, and/or marjoram), divided
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil, such as canola or avocado
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- Aromatics: onion, apple, lemon, and/or orange, cut into 2-inch pieces (1½ cups)
- 3 cups water, plus more as needed
Directions
- Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 475°F.
- Remove giblets and neck from the turkey cavity and set them aside for making gravy. Place the turkey, breast-side-up, on a rack in a large roasting pan; pat dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix minced herbs, oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, under the skin, and onto the breast meat.
- Place aromatics and 10 sprigs of herbs in the cavity. Tuck the wing tips under the turkey. Tie the legs together with kitchen string. Add water and the remaining 10 herb sprigs to the pan.
- Roast the turkey until the skin is golden brown, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven. Cover the breast with a double layer of foil, cutting as necessary to fit the shape of the turkey breast.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching bone) registers 165°F, about 1 ¼ to 1 ¾ hours. If the pan begins to dry out, tilt the turkey to let juices run from the cavity into the pan and add 1 cup of water.
- Transfer the turkey to a serving platter and cover with foil. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes. Remove the string and carve.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings per Recipe: 12
- Serving Size: 3 ounces
- Calories: 172
This Herb-Roasted Turkey is the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion, especially Thanksgiving. With its flavorful herb-infused skin, juicy breast meat, and aromatic stuffing, it will surely impress your guests. Whether you’re preparing for a large family dinner or looking for a festive meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit! For more delicious and healthy recipes, visit Healthy Recipes Zone and stay updated with the latest food trends.