Effortless Thanksgiving: Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipes and Guide

Thanksgiving dinner can be a daunting task, especially if you’re short on time or oven space. But fear not! The Instant Pot is here to save the day. This magical appliance can cook a juicy and flavorful turkey breast in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods. Say goodbye to dry, overcooked turkey and hello to tender, succulent perfection. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cooking a turkey breast in your Instant Pot, including various recipes, tips, and tricks for a truly memorable Thanksgiving (or any day!) meal.

Why Use an Instant Pot for Turkey Breast?

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s understand why the Instant Pot is such a game-changer for cooking turkey breast:

* **Speed:** The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time. A turkey breast that might take hours in the oven can be ready in under an hour in the Instant Pot.
* **Moisture:** The pressure cooking environment traps moisture, resulting in a much juicier and more tender turkey breast compared to oven roasting.
* **Convenience:** It frees up your oven for other dishes, which is crucial during a holiday feast.
* **Ease:** It’s surprisingly simple! With just a few ingredients and steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality results.
* **Flavor:** The Instant Pot intensifies the flavors of the herbs and spices, creating a more aromatic and delicious turkey.

Choosing the Right Turkey Breast

Selecting the right turkey breast is crucial for a successful Instant Pot experience. Here’s what to consider:

* **Size:** A 3-7 pound boneless or bone-in turkey breast is ideal for most Instant Pot models. Make sure it fits comfortably inside the pot without touching the lid.
* **Bone-in vs. Boneless:** Both bone-in and boneless turkey breasts work well in the Instant Pot. Bone-in breasts tend to be more flavorful, while boneless breasts are easier to slice.
* **Skin-on vs. Skinless:** Skin-on turkey breasts will offer slightly more flavor, but the skin won’t get crispy in the Instant Pot. You can crisp it up in the oven or under the broiler after pressure cooking.
* **Fresh vs. Frozen:** Fresh turkey breasts are always preferable for the best flavor and texture. However, you can cook a frozen turkey breast in the Instant Pot; you’ll just need to increase the cooking time significantly (by about 50%).
* **Check for Added Ingredients:** Some turkey breasts are pre-brined or injected with solutions. Read the label carefully to avoid overly salty or artificially flavored turkey.

Essential Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment:

* **Instant Pot:** A 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot is recommended.
* **Trivet:** This elevates the turkey breast above the liquid, preventing it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
* **Meat Thermometer:** A reliable meat thermometer is essential for ensuring the turkey breast is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Sharp Knife:** For trimming and slicing the turkey breast.
* **Cutting Board:** A stable surface for preparing the turkey.

Basic Instant Pot Turkey Breast Recipe

This recipe provides a foundation for cooking a delicious and juicy turkey breast in the Instant Pot. You can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices.

**Ingredients:**

* 3-5 lb boneless or bone-in turkey breast
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper
* 1 tsp garlic powder
* 1/2 tsp onion powder
* 1 tsp dried thyme
* 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
* 1 cup chicken broth

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Turkey:** Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps with browning (if you choose to broil later).
2. **Season the Turkey:** In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated. You can also sneak some under the skin, if applicable.
3. **Sear the Turkey (Optional):** Turn on the Instant Pot’s Sauté function. Add olive oil to the pot. Once hot, sear the turkey breast on all sides until lightly browned. This step enhances flavor and appearance, but it’s optional.
4. **Add Broth and Trivet:** Turn off the Sauté function. Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot. Pour the chicken broth into the pot.
5. **Place Turkey on Trivet:** Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the trivet.
6. **Pressure Cook:** Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to Sealing. Select the Manual/Pressure Cook setting and set the cooking time according to the chart below (adjust based on weight and bone-in/boneless).

* **Boneless Turkey Breast:** 12 minutes per pound
* **Bone-in Turkey Breast:** 14 minutes per pound

7. **Natural Pressure Release:** Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15-20 minutes. This helps the turkey retain moisture. After the natural pressure release, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
8. **Check Internal Temperature:** Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
9. **Rest and Slice:** Carefully remove the turkey breast from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
10. **Crisp the Skin (Optional):** If you want crispy skin, preheat your oven broiler. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
11. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve immediately. Spoon some of the juices from the Instant Pot over the sliced turkey for extra flavor.

Cooking Time Chart

Use this chart as a general guideline for cooking times. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

| Turkey Breast Type | Weight (lbs) | Cooking Time (minutes) | Natural Pressure Release (minutes) |
| ——————- | ———– | ———————— | ———————————- |
| Boneless | 3-4 | 36-48 | 15-20 |
| Boneless | 4-5 | 48-60 | 15-20 |
| Boneless | 5-6 | 60-72 | 15-20 |
| Bone-in | 3-4 | 42-56 | 15-20 |
| Bone-in | 4-5 | 56-70 | 15-20 |
| Bone-in | 5-6 | 70-84 | 15-20 |

**Note:** These times are for fresh or fully thawed turkey breasts. Increase the cooking time by 50% for frozen turkey breasts.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few variations to add extra flavor to your Instant Pot turkey breast:

* **Lemon Herb Turkey Breast:** Add lemon slices and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage to the Instant Pot.
* **Garlic Butter Turkey Breast:** Rub the turkey breast with a mixture of softened butter, minced garlic, and herbs.
* **Spicy Turkey Breast:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning blend.
* **Brown Sugar Glazed Turkey Breast:** Combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy glaze. Brush it on the turkey breast during the last few minutes of cooking or after broiling.
* **Smoked Paprika Turkey Breast:** Add smoked paprika to the seasoning blend for a smoky flavor.
* **Mushroom Gravy Turkey Breast:** Add sliced mushrooms to the Instant Pot with the chicken broth. After cooking, use the liquid to make a delicious mushroom gravy.
* **Cranberry Sauce Turkey Breast:** Serve the turkey breast with homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for a festive touch.

Lemon Herb Instant Pot Turkey Breast

This recipe elevates the basic recipe with bright citrus and aromatic herbs.

**Ingredients:**

* 3-5 lb boneless or bone-in turkey breast
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 lemon, sliced
* 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
* 3 sprigs fresh thyme
* 1 cup chicken broth

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Turkey:** Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
2. **Season the Turkey:** In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast.
3. **Add Broth, Lemon, and Herbs:** Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot. Pour the chicken broth into the pot. Scatter the lemon slices, rosemary sprigs, and thyme sprigs in the broth.
4. **Place Turkey on Trivet:** Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the trivet.
5. **Pressure Cook:** Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to Sealing. Select the Manual/Pressure Cook setting and set the cooking time according to the chart above (adjust based on weight and bone-in/boneless).
6. **Natural Pressure Release:** Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15-20 minutes. After the natural pressure release, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
7. **Check Internal Temperature:** Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
8. **Rest and Slice:** Carefully remove the turkey breast from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
9. **Crisp the Skin (Optional):** If you want crispy skin, preheat your oven broiler. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
10. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve immediately. Spoon some of the juices from the Instant Pot over the sliced turkey for extra flavor.

Garlic Butter Instant Pot Turkey Breast

This recipe creates a rich and flavorful turkey breast with a delicious garlic butter crust (achieved by broiling).

**Ingredients:**

* 3-5 lb boneless or bone-in turkey breast
* 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper
* 1 cup chicken broth

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Turkey:** Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
2. **Make Garlic Butter:** In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. **Rub with Garlic Butter:** Rub the garlic butter mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Try to get some under the skin if possible.
4. **Add Broth and Trivet:** Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot. Pour the chicken broth into the pot.
5. **Place Turkey on Trivet:** Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the trivet.
6. **Pressure Cook:** Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to Sealing. Select the Manual/Pressure Cook setting and set the cooking time according to the chart above (adjust based on weight and bone-in/boneless).
7. **Natural Pressure Release:** Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15-20 minutes. After the natural pressure release, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
8. **Check Internal Temperature:** Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
9. **Rest and Slice:** Carefully remove the turkey breast from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
10. **Crisp the Skin (Broiling is Essential for this Recipe):** Preheat your oven broiler. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the skin is golden brown and crispy and the garlic butter is bubbling. This step is crucial to getting that garlic butter flavor infused into the turkey.
11. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve immediately. Spoon some of the juices from the Instant Pot over the sliced turkey for extra flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Instant Pot Turkey Breast

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:** Make sure the turkey breast fits comfortably in the Instant Pot without touching the lid. If it’s too large, cut it in half or cook it in batches.
* **Use Enough Liquid:** At least 1 cup of liquid is needed to create steam and pressure. Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water can be used.
* **Avoid Overcooking:** Overcooked turkey breast can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and avoid cooking it for longer than necessary.
* **Natural Pressure Release is Key:** Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15-20 minutes helps the turkey retain moisture and prevents it from becoming tough.
* **Rest Before Slicing:** Resting the turkey breast for 10-15 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
* **Save the Juices:** The juices left in the Instant Pot are full of flavor. Use them to make a delicious gravy or drizzle them over the sliced turkey.
* **Thaw Frozen Turkey Completely:** If using a frozen turkey breast, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the turkey from being undercooked in the center.
* **Brining (Optional):** Brining the turkey breast before cooking can add extra moisture and flavor. You can use a wet brine or a dry brine (rub).
* **Adjust Seasoning:** Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and flavor combinations.
* **Deglaze the Pot (for Gravy):** After removing the turkey, use the Sauté function to deglaze the pot with a little wine or broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor in your gravy.

Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot turkey breast is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Thanksgiving Dinner:** Serve it as the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving feast, alongside traditional sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole.
* **Holiday Sandwiches:** Use leftover turkey breast to make delicious sandwiches with cranberry sauce, stuffing, and gravy.
* **Turkey Salad:** Shred the turkey breast and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and seasonings for a classic turkey salad.
* **Turkey Pot Pie:** Use the turkey breast to make a comforting and flavorful turkey pot pie.
* **Turkey Enchiladas:** Shred the turkey breast and use it as a filling for enchiladas, topped with your favorite sauce and cheese.
* **Simple Weeknight Meal:** Serve sliced turkey breast with roasted vegetables and a side salad for a healthy and easy weeknight meal.
* **Protein for Salads:** Add sliced or diced turkey breast to salads for a protein boost.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, add a little broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

Troubleshooting

* **Turkey is Dry:** Make sure you’re not overcooking the turkey. Use a meat thermometer and follow the cooking time chart. Consider brining the turkey breast before cooking.
* **Turkey is Undercooked:** Increase the cooking time and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If necessary, cook it for a few more minutes on the Sauté function with some broth.
* **Instant Pot Won’t Come to Pressure:** Make sure the lid is properly sealed and the valve is set to Sealing. Check the sealing ring to ensure it’s clean and properly seated. Also, make sure there’s enough liquid in the pot.
* **Burning Smell:** If you smell burning, turn off the Instant Pot immediately and release the pressure manually. Check the bottom of the pot for any food that may be stuck. Ensure you have enough liquid in the pot and use a trivet.

Conclusion

Cooking turkey breast in the Instant Pot is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. With its ability to lock in moisture and intensify flavors, the Instant Pot delivers a tender and flavorful turkey breast every time. Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving feast or simply craving a healthy and satisfying meal, the Instant Pot is your secret weapon for perfect turkey breast. So, dust off your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this effortless and flavorful recipe! Happy cooking, and happy Thanksgiving!