As the holiday season approaches, I wanted to find a way to simplify the traditional turkey dinner without sacrificing flavor. This year, I decided to try making an Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Gravy, and it turned out to be a game changer! The turkey was incredibly moist and flavorful, while the gravy was rich and savory. My family couldn’t believe how quickly I was able to prepare a meal that felt both comforting and festive. It became an instant favorite, perfect for our holiday gatherings!

Ingredients

For this delicious turkey breast dinner, gather the following ingredients:

For the Turkey:

3-4 pound turkey breast (bone-in or boneless)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup chicken broth

For the Gravy:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup reserved cooking liquid from the Instant Pot
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Once hot, sear the turkey breast for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Remove the turkey breast and set aside. Add chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Place the turkey breast back into the Instant Pot and seal the lid. Set to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 25 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then switch to quick release.
Remove the turkey breast and let it rest while you make the gravy.
For the gravy, set the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. Melt the butter and whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
Slowly whisk in the reserved cooking liquid until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Slice the turkey and serve with gravy poured over the top.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: Approximately 350
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 45g

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

Serve sliced turkey breast on a platter, topped with the rich gravy.
Pair with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or stuffing.
Consider adding cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of color.

Additional Tips

Brining the Turkey: For extra moisture, consider brining the turkey breast overnight in a saltwater solution.
Leftover Turkey: This recipe is great for leftovers; use them in sandwiches, salads, or soups.
Add Aromatics: Toss in some onion and garlic cloves into the broth for additional flavor.
Thicken the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it in while cooking.
Make it Ahead: The turkey can be cooked a day in advance; just reheat gently with gravy before serving.

Recipe Variations

Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano for varied flavors.
Different Sauces: Try using a mushroom sauce instead of gravy for a different twist.
Stuffing Option: Add stuffing to the cavity of the turkey breast (if using bone-in) for a more traditional approach.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
Consider serving with a festive drink like spiced apple cider or cranberry juice.
Set the table with seasonal decorations to enhance the holiday spirit.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Cooked turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Gravy Storage: Leftover gravy can also be refrigerated or frozen in an airtight container.

Special Equipment

Instant Pot
Cutting board
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a frozen turkey breast?
A1: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. A frozen turkey breast typically requires about 50-60 minutes.

Q2: How can I ensure the turkey stays juicy?
A2: Searing the turkey before cooking helps lock in moisture, and letting it rest afterward is crucial.

Q3: What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
A3: Vegetable broth or water can be used as a substitute, though the flavor may differ slightly.

Q4: Can I cook other dishes in the Instant Pot at the same time?
A4: Yes, you can use a steamer basket to cook vegetables or potatoes above the turkey while it cooks.

Q5: How do I know when the turkey is done?
A5: The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

This Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Gravy is a perfect dish for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress without the hassle. With its tender meat and rich gravy, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. Enjoy a deliciously simple way to celebrate the season!