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Quick Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe (30-Minute Easy Prep)

maple bourbon glazed turkey breast - featured image

This quick maple bourbon glazed turkey breast is a 30-minute weeknight dinner that feels special. Sticky, slightly smoky, and balanced with a warm kick, it uses simple ingredients and one pan for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless, skin-on turkey breast
  • ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the rack in the middle position.
  2. Pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  4. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, melted butter, and optional garlic if using. Whisk together and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
  5. Sear the turkey (optional but recommended): Heat a tablespoon of oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the turkey breast skin-side down and cook without moving it for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Brush the glaze onto the turkey using a basting brush, coating the top and sides generously. Reserve about half the glaze for basting later.
  7. Roast for 20-25 minutes. After 10 minutes, open the oven and brush another layer of glaze over the turkey. Close the door and continue roasting.
  8. Check the internal temperature at the 20-minute mark. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. You’re looking for 155°F (68°C). If not reached, return to the oven for another 3-5 minutes and check again.
  9. Rest the turkey: Remove from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Loosely tent with aluminum foil and let rest for 5-7 minutes.
  10. Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the turkey breast against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the top.

Notes

Don’t skip the rest period—it keeps the meat juicy. Watch the glaze carefully as maple syrup burns quickly; reduce oven temperature to 375°F if needed. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Double the glaze if you like extra sauce. Line the pan with foil for easier cleanup.

Nutrition

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