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Best Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast for Two

maple bourbon glazed turkey breast for two - featured image

A perfectly sized maple bourbon glazed turkey breast for two, featuring a sticky, sweet, and slightly smoky glaze that caramelizes beautifully. This recipe delivers juicy, tender turkey with a rich, flavorful crust, ideal for a cozy dinner or a small celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (2 to 2.5 pounds / 900g to 1.1kg)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup chicken broth or turkey stock

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the rack in the middle. Take the turkey breast out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
  2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix into a paste.
  4. Using your fingers, gently loosen the skin over the breast meat. Slide about half of the seasoned butter under the skin, then rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey.
  5. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of oil. Place the turkey breast skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
  6. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet around the turkey.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 45 to 55 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C) at the thickest part.
  8. While the turkey roasts, make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened slightly.
  9. When the turkey hits 155°F, remove the skillet from the oven. Brush the glaze generously all over the turkey skin. Return to the oven and roast for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  10. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the turkey to a cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 10 to 15 minutes. The temperature will rise to 165°F (74°C).
  11. Slice the turkey breast against the grain into thick slices. Drizzle any remaining glaze or pan juices over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip the sear—it creates a flavorful crust. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Glaze the turkey only in the last 10-15 minutes to prevent burning. Let the turkey rest before carving to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bourbon glazed turkey breast, turkey for two, small batch turkey, easy turkey recipe, date night dinner, Thanksgiving for two