📝 About This Recipe
This recipe transforms the traditional holiday centerpiece into a weeknight-friendly masterpiece using the magic of pressure cooking. By sealing in the moisture, the turkey breast remains incredibly tender and juicy, while a rich infusion of fresh rosemary, sage, and thyme creates a sophisticated flavor profile. It is the perfect solution for a smaller gathering or a festive meal when you want gourmet results without spending all day in the kitchen.
🥗 Ingredients
The Turkey and Rub
- 6-7 pounds Bone-in Turkey Breast (thawed completely and patted dry)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
Aromatics and Liquid
- 1.5 cups Chicken or Turkey Stock (low sodium preferred)
- 1 medium Yellow Onion (quartered)
- 4 cloves Garlic (smashed)
- 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
- 3 leaves Fresh Sage
- 4 sprigs Fresh Thyme
For the Herb Gravy
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Cold Water (to create a slurry)
- 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (optional, for richness)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until it forms a smooth, seasoned paste.
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2
Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast with your fingers and spread about half of the herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the skin.
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3
Pour the chicken stock into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Add the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, rosemary, sage, and thyme sprigs to the liquid.
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4
Place the metal trivet into the Instant Pot, ensuring the handles are accessible. Carefully lower the seasoned turkey breast onto the trivet, breast-side up.
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5
Secure the lid and set the steam release valve to the 'Sealing' position.
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6
Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' on High Pressure and set the timer for 6 minutes per pound (approximately 36-42 minutes for a 6-7 lb breast).
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7
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 15 minutes. This ensures the juices redistribute within the meat.
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8
Carefully turn the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining steam. Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the turkey with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
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9
Optional for crispy skin: Transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crisp.
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10
Remove the turkey to a carving board and tent loosely with foil to rest for 10 minutes.
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11
Strain the cooking liquid from the pot through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids. Return the liquid to the Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function.
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12
In a small cup, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Whisk this into the simmering liquid.
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13
Allow the gravy to bubble and thicken for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh parsley, then season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
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14
Carve the turkey against the grain and serve drizzled generously with the warm herb gravy.
💡 Chef's Tips
Ensure your turkey breast is fully thawed; cooking from frozen will result in uneven texture. For the best flavor, use fresh herbs rather than dried—the aromatic steam makes a massive difference. Don't skip the natural pressure release; a quick release can cause the muscle fibers to tighten and toughen the meat. If your gravy is too thin, add more cornstarch slurry; if too thick, whisk in a splash more stock. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the breast reaches exactly 165°F to avoid dryness.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the extra herb gravy. Pair with honey-glazed roasted carrots or sautéed green beans with toasted almonds. A crisp, chilled Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the poultry and herbs beautifully. Add a side of tart cranberry sauce to provide a bright contrast to the savory gravy. Freshly baked dinner rolls are essential for cleaning every last drop of gravy off the plate.