How To Cook The Juiciest Instant Pot Turkey Breast: A Step-by-step Guide
What To Know
- Allow the turkey breast to rest before carving to let the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture.
- You can use a steamer basket or a metal colander with a few holes in the bottom to elevate the turkey breast above the liquid.
- Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Prepare to savor the taste of Thanksgiving with a tender and juicy turkey breast cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. This innovative appliance offers a convenient and time-saving alternative to traditional roasting, allowing you to enjoy a delicious feast without the hassle. Follow our comprehensive guide and learn the art of “How to Instant Pot Turkey Breast” for a stress-free and unforgettable Thanksgiving celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4-6 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Turkey Breast:
Generously season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, thyme, and sage.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Turn on the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic until softened.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
Add the chicken broth to the pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This will deglaze the pot and add flavor to the broth.
4. Place the Turkey Breast in the Pot:
Nestle the seasoned turkey breast in the pot on top of the aromatics.
5. Add Liquid:
Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the turkey breast by about 1 inch.
6. Cook on High Pressure:
Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “High Pressure” for 20 minutes per pound of turkey breast. For a 5-pound turkey breast, cook for 100 minutes.
7. Natural Release:
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before carefully releasing the remaining pressure.
Carving and Serving
8. Carve the Turkey Breast:
Remove the turkey breast from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Slice the turkey breast against the grain for tender and juicy pieces.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the carved turkey breast with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious and effortless Thanksgiving feast.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Breast
- Use a fresh turkey breast: For the best flavor and texture, use a fresh, not frozen, turkey breast.
- Season liberally: Don’t be afraid to season the turkey breast generously with herbs and spices. This will enhance its flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot: Ensure there is enough space around the turkey breast for the broth to circulate.
- Cook to the correct temperature: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
- Let it rest: Allow the turkey breast to rest before carving to let the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture.
Troubleshooting
- Turkey breast is too dry: If the turkey breast is dry, it may have been overcooked. Reduce the cooking time slightly next time.
- Turkey breast is not cooked through: If the turkey breast is not cooked through, increase the cooking time slightly next time.
- Turkey breast is tough: If the turkey breast is tough, it may have been cooked at too high a pressure. Use the “High Pressure” setting for 20 minutes per pound of turkey breast.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Can I use frozen turkey breast?
Yes, you can use frozen turkey breast. However, you will need to increase the cooking time by about 50%.
2. What if I don’t have a trivet?
You can use a steamer basket or a metal colander with a few holes in the bottom to elevate the turkey breast above the liquid.
3. Can I make gravy in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make gravy in the Instant Pot after cooking the turkey breast. Use the “Sauté” function to thicken the cooking liquid with a cornstarch slurry.
4. How do I store leftover turkey breast?
Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Can I use this method to cook a whole turkey?
No, the Instant Pot is not large enough to accommodate a whole turkey. This method is only suitable for cooking a boneless, skinless turkey breast.
