When it comes to effortless weeknight dinners, nothing beats the convenience of preparing succulent turkey breast in an Instant Pot. This modern cooking gadget transforms a traditionally long process into a quick and simple experience, allowing you to savor tender, flavorful meat in no time. Moreover, the versatility of an electric pressure cooker means you can easily infuse your turkey with herbs or spices, creating a mouthwatering dish for any occasion.
Beyond just being a time-saver, an Instant Pot turkey breast is a brilliant way to enjoy a healthy meal without all the fuss. Imagine serving up juicy slices for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner with minimal prep. Additionally, this approach to cooking ensures that the meat retains its moisture, resulting in a delightful eating experience that everyone will love.
Key Benefits of Cooking Turkey in an Instant Pot:
Cooking turkey in an Instant Pot comes with a plethora of advantages that make it an exceptional choice for busy cooks and health enthusiasts alike. First and foremost, the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy tender, juicy turkey within a fraction of the typical roasting duration. Moreover, the pressure cooking method locks in moisture and flavors, resulting in a succulent turkey breast that stays flavorful and moist without the risk of drying out.
Additionally, making turkey in an Instant Pot is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the seasoning and add complementary ingredients to create various dishes, from savory meals to delectable sliders, like these Turkey Cranberry Sliders. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with the pot’s single-container design, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your meal rather than scrubbing dishes.
Finally, using the Instant Pot not only saves time but also enhances nutrient retention, making it a smarter choice for those conscious about health and flavor. Embrace the convenience and taste of Instant Pot turkey breast, a dish that seamlessly combines efficiency with delicious outcomes.
Ingredients:
To prepare a succulent Instant Pot Turkey Breast, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (1 ounce) package onion soup mix
- 1 (6 pound) turkey breast, thawed
- 2 ribs celery, cut into large chunks
- 1 onion, cut into large chunks
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or more as needed)
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and tender turkey breast that is perfect for any occasion. Using the onion soup mix enhances the dish’s savory profile, while the chicken broth keeps the turkey moist as it cooks. Complementing the turkey with large chunks of celery and onion adds texture and flavor. After cooking, you can thicken the remaining broth with cornstarch for a delicious gravy, ideal for pairing with mashed potatoes or stuffing.
For additional delicious side ideas, check out my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Over Mashed Potatoes to create a well-rounded meal that enhances the flavors of the Instant Pot dish.
How to Prepare Instant Pot Turkey Breast:
To prepare a delicious Instant Pot turkey breast, start by seasoning the thawed turkey with the onion soup mix. This provides a flavorful base for your dish. Next, place the large chunks of celery and onion at the bottom of the Instant Pot, creating a flavorful bed for the turkey. Position the seasoned turkey breast on this vegetable layer. Pour in the chicken broth and water, ensuring moisture is present for effective cooking.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once finished, allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully venting any remaining steam. For a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a splash of water, then stir it into the broth left in the pot. This recipe offers a tasty option for your dinner table; consider pairing it with other dishes like the Shredded Chicken Gravy on Mashed Potatoes. For more details on cooking times, check out this helpful resource on Instant Pot Turkey Breast. Enjoy your meal!
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Turkey Breast:
To achieve a perfect Instant Pot turkey breast, start by seasoning it generously with your favorite herbs and spices. A simple blend of garlic, thyme, and pepper works wonders. Next, ensure you have enough liquid in the pot. Using broth adds flavor and prevents the turkey from drying out. For enhanced taste, consider incorporating some lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for acidity.
Pressure-cook the turkey breast for about 6-8 minutes per pound, allowing for a natural pressure release afterward. This step helps maintain juiciness, making your turkey breast tender.
If you’re looking for a delicious side to complement your turkey, try making a flavorful shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes. This pairing makes for a comforting meal that your family will love! Finally, ensure you let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing, as this will give the juices a chance to redistribute. Enjoy your succulent turkey!
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Turkey Breast:
Instant Pot Turkey Breast makes a delightful centerpiece for any meal. To elevate your dining experience, serve it alongside creamy garlic parmesan chicken over mashed potatoes. This pairing creates a rich and comforting dish that complements the succulent flavors of the turkey.
Additionally, consider preparing a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with vinaigrette will balance the hearty turkey. You can also whip up some savory sides, like cheesy bacon ranch potato casserole, for an indulgent touch. Its crispy edges and creamy interior pair wonderfully with the tender turkey.
If you’re in the mood for something festive, try turkey cranberry sliders as a fun finger food option. These sliders capture the essence of holiday flavors while making for easy serving. Adding cranberry sauce gives a deliciously sweet and tangy twist that pairs excellently with savory turkey. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, these serving ideas will make your Instant Pot Turkey Breast shine.
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Turkey Breast:
Proper storage is key to enjoying leftovers from your Instant Pot Turkey Breast. Allow the turkey to cool completely, then slice or shred it for easy portioning. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Alternatively, for longer storage, consider freezing it in vacuum-sealed bags. Reheat it gently before serving, perhaps alongside delicious shredded chicken gravy on mashed potatoes for a comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the cooking time for Instant Pot turkey breast?
To cook a turkey breast in an Instant Pot, the general rule is to allow 6 minutes of cooking time per pound when using the pressure cooking function. This ensures that the turkey is juicy and thoroughly cooked.
Can I cook frozen turkey breast in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook a frozen turkey breast in the Instant Pot. Just remember to add additional cooking time, typically around 50% more. Ensure to check the internal temperature to confirm it’s cooked properly.
How do I ensure my turkey breast stays moist?
To keep your turkey breast moist, consider adding a flavorful broth or marinade before sealing the pot. This creates a tender, juicy meat that tantalizes the taste buds.
Can I use the Instant Pot for turkey leftovers?
Certainly! Leftover turkey can be reheated in the Instant Pot. Simply add a bit of broth to prevent drying out during the reheating process, making it deliciously tender.
What spices work best with Instant Pot turkey breast?
A mix of herbs like rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and paprika enhance the flavors of your turkey breast. These spices create an irresistible aroma and a delightful taste, transforming your meal.
What side dishes pair well with turkey breast?
For a perfect complement, try serving your turkey breast with mashed potatoes or a refreshing salad. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully, while a fresh salad adds a splash of color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal. For more comforting options, explore our recipe for cheesy potato kielbasa casserole.
Print
Instant Pot Turkey Breast: Quick and Tasty Holiday Meal
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Effortless weeknight dinners don’t get easier than this. A succulent turkey breast made in the Instant Pot comes out tender and flavorful, making it perfect for busy cooks and health-conscious eaters. With minimal prep and a quick cooking time, you’ll enjoy juicy turkey in no time, with added versatility for seasoning and flavoring.
Ingredients
1 (1 ounce) package onion soup mix
1 (6-pound) turkey breast, thawed
2 ribs celery, cut into large chunks
1 onion, cut into large chunks
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or more as needed)
Instructions
Season the thawed turkey with the onion soup mix, ensuring an even coat.
Place the large chunks of celery and onion at the bottom of the Instant Pot.
Position the seasoned turkey breast on top of the vegetables.
Add the chicken broth and water into the Instant Pot.
Seal the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure, and cook for 60 minutes.
Allow a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before venting any remaining steam.
To make gravy, mix cornstarch with a splash of water, then stir into the remaining broth.
Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
The turkey breast can be seasoned with garlic, thyme, and pepper for extra flavor.
For thicker gravy, you can adjust the cornstarch amount to your liking.
If you prefer a tangy flavor, add a bit of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Instant Pot Turkey Breast, turkey recipe, pressure cooker turkey, Thanksgiving turkey, easy turkey recipe