Print

Best Easy Cajun Butter Turkey Breast for Two

cajun butter turkey breast for two - featured image

A cozy, quick, and incredibly flavorful turkey breast for two, slathered in Cajun butter and roasted to perfection. Perfect for a special weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday, this recipe delivers moist, tender meat with a crispy, spiced crust in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 boneless, skin-on turkey breast (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or turkey broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven.
  2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Let it sit on the counter for about 10 minutes to come to room temperature.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Mash together with a fork until well combined.
  4. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast, including underneath the skin if possible. Spread the Cajun butter evenly over the entire surface, including under the skin.
  5. Place the turkey breast skin-side up in a small cast iron skillet or baking dish. Pour the chicken broth around the turkey (not over it). Add the smashed garlic cloves to the broth.
  6. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the size of your turkey breast. Start checking the internal temperature at the 25-minute mark. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast; you’re looking for 160°F.
  7. About 15 minutes into roasting, baste the turkey with the buttery pan juices.
  8. Once the turkey reaches 160°F, remove it from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 10 minutes.
  9. While the turkey rests, place the skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water and scrape up the browned bits. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Strain out the garlic cloves if desired.
  10. Carve the turkey breast against the grain into thick slices. Drizzle with pan sauce and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip resting the turkey for 10 minutes; it allows juices to redistribute. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Adjust spice level by starting with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning if unsure. If skin browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun butter turkey breast, turkey for two, easy turkey recipe, small turkey breast, weeknight dinner, cozy dinner