Imagine a holiday meal that’s delicious, impressive, and surprisingly stress-free. With this incredible Instant Pot Turkey Breast recipe, that dream becomes a reality! Forget the hours of roasting a whole bird and the scramble for oven space. This method delivers a perfectly tender, succulent, and beautifully seasoned turkey breast in a fraction of the time. It’s an absolute game-changer for your holiday feasts or any time you crave those comforting flavors without the fuss. Prepare to make this your new favorite way to cook turkey!
The holiday season is nearly upon us, and with it comes the delightful challenge of crafting memorable meals. For many, Thanksgiving and Christmas mean preparing a large turkey, a tradition that, while cherished, often involves significant kitchen stress. Are you tired of making the same whole turkey year after year, wrestling for oven real estate, and worrying about dry meat? It’s time to shake things up and embrace a revolutionary approach to your holiday centerpiece.
If you own a pressure cooker, specifically an Instant Pot, you hold the key to simplifying your holiday cooking. This Instant Pot turkey breast recipe is designed for ease and efficiency, making it ideal for a small Thanksgiving gathering, a cozy Christmas dinner, or simply a delicious family meal for two to four people. Not only will you enjoy tender, flavorful turkey, but you’ll also likely have some wonderful leftover turkey to create fantastic post-holiday sandwiches, soups, or even a batch of delightful turkey sliders.
Of course, for a very large crowd, a traditional whole oven-roasted turkey still holds its place. However, for those seeking a more manageable option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality, this pressure cooker turkey breast is an outstanding choice. It truly transforms what can be a daunting task into a remarkably straightforward one. For another fantastic alternative, especially if you prefer smaller cuts, consider an Instant Pot turkey tenderloin!
Complete your festive table by serving this succulent turkey breast with classic holiday accompaniments. Imagine pairing it with rich cornbread and sausage stuffing, creamy garlic mashed potatoes, crispy garlic bread, and a savory roasted brussels sprouts gratin. Each bite will transport you to a culinary paradise, proving that a smaller turkey can still yield an incredibly grand meal.
Why Choose Instant Pot Turkey Breast for Your Holiday Feast?
Cooking a turkey breast in your Instant Pot offers a multitude of benefits, making it an increasingly popular choice for both holiday celebrations and everyday meals. The pressure cooker method fundamentally simplifies the process, ensuring a perfect turkey entree that is as delicious as it is easy.
The primary advantage lies in the unparalleled juiciness and flavor. Unlike conventional oven roasting, where turkey can easily dry out, the Instant Pot utilizes steam to cook under pressure. This creates a moist, enclosed environment that locks in all the natural juices and flavors, resulting in an exceptionally tender and succulent turkey breast every single time. There’s no more guessing game, no constant basting, and no dry, disappointing meat. This easy recipe truly takes the guesswork out of achieving perfectly cooked turkey, making you look like a culinary genius without all the effort. Ditch the traditional oven for your turkey this year and experience the magic of pressure cooking!
One common concern with pressure-cooked turkey is the absence of that coveted crispy, golden skin. While the Instant Pot itself won’t deliver this, it’s an easy fix! A quick finish under the broiler in your oven after the pressure cooking is complete will achieve that beautiful, irresistible golden skin, adding a delightful texture contrast to the tender meat. This optional step takes just minutes and elevates the presentation to holiday-feast perfection.
Beyond the holidays, this method is fantastic for any time you’re craving those warm, cozy, festive flavors but are short on time. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a special weekday treat, you can enjoy the rich taste of roasted Thanksgiving turkey with homemade gravy without the hassle of preparing a whole bird. The Instant Pot transforms a lengthy process into a convenient reality, allowing you to savor your favorite comforting meals more frequently and with far less stress.
Essential Ingredients for a Mouthwatering Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Crafting a truly memorable Instant Pot Turkey Breast starts with quality ingredients and a perfect blend of seasonings. You’ll find the exact measurements in the recipe card below, but here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this succulent dish and its accompanying rich gravy.
For the Turkey Breast:
- Turkey Breast: Aim for a 6-7 pound boneless or bone-in turkey breast. This size typically fits well within a 6-quart Instant Pot, making it ideal for smaller gatherings. If purchasing a frozen turkey breast, ensure it is completely thawed before cooking. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight (or for several days, depending on size) is crucial for even cooking and safety.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor, which helps to bind the seasonings to the turkey and contributes to a beautiful exterior. You can also use melted butter for an even richer taste.
- Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are essential to enhance the natural flavor of the turkey. Adjust quantities to your personal preference, tasting as you go.
- Sage: Ground or rubbed sage is a cornerstone of traditional holiday turkey flavor. Its earthy, slightly peppery notes are indispensable for that classic, comforting aroma and taste.
- Garlic Powder: A versatile and potent seasoning that adds depth and warmth. Feel free to be generous with this one – as they say, measure with your heart!
- Chicken Stock or Broth: This is vital for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking and forms the flavorful base for your gravy. For the most incredible depth of flavor, consider making your own homemade chicken broth. During the holiday season, many grocery stores (like Trader Joe’s) also offer turkey broth, which is an excellent substitute for chicken broth if available, further intensifying the turkey flavor.
For the Irresistible Gravy:
- Butter: Salted butter is preferred here, adding a rich, savory base to your gravy. It contributes significantly to the creamy texture and depth of flavor.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is used to create a classic roux, which will thicken your gravy to the perfect consistency.
- Cream: A touch of heavy cream adds luxurious richness and a silky-smooth finish to the gravy, elevating it to gourmet status.
- Turkey Drippings: These flavorful liquids, left behind in the Instant Pot after cooking the turkey, are the secret ingredient to an exceptionally savory, deeply flavored homemade gravy. Do not discard them!
How to Cook a Perfect Turkey Breast in Your Instant Pot: Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a turkey breast in the Instant Pot is surprisingly simple, yielding impressive results with minimal effort. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a tender, juicy, and flavorful turkey, ready to be the star of your meal. (For full, precise instructions and measurements, refer to the complete recipe card at the bottom of this post.)
Major Pro Tip: Before the big cooking day, or even a few days prior, always perform a ‘test fit’ to ensure your turkey breast comfortably fits inside the insert of your pressure cooker. A standard 6-7 pound turkey breast will usually fit perfectly into a 6-quart Instant Pot, but confirming beforehand can save you a lot of stress!
- Prepare Your Aromatic Rub: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, ground sage, and garlic powder. Mix these seasonings thoroughly until well combined.
- Season the Turkey Breast: First, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and seasonings adhere better. Next, generously rub the entire turkey breast with olive oil. Then, evenly sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture all over the turkey. Using your hands or a silicone brush, ensure the turkey breast is thoroughly coated with the delicious spice blend. This creates a flavorful crust during cooking.
- Add the Liquid Base: Pour the chicken or turkey stock into the bottom of your Instant Pot’s inner pot. This liquid is essential for creating the steam necessary for pressure cooking.
- Position the Trivet: Place the metal trivet (the rack that usually comes with your Instant Pot) into the insert, resting it above the broth. This keeps the turkey elevated out of the liquid, allowing it to steam rather than boil.
- Place the Turkey: Carefully position the seasoned turkey breast on top of the metal trivet, ensuring the skin side is facing up.
- Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting on high pressure for 40 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally (NPR). This natural release is crucial for keeping the turkey incredibly tender and juicy. Resist the urge to do a quick release unless absolutely necessary, as it can result in drier meat.
- Rest the Turkey and Prepare for Gravy: Once the pressure has naturally released, carefully open the lid. Using oven mitts, remove the cooked turkey breast and the metal trivet from the Instant Pot insert. Transfer the turkey to a large plate or carving board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Craft Your Homemade Gravy: With the turkey resting, it’s time to make use of those rich turkey drippings! Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add the butter to the drippings in the pot and whisk until it melts. Gradually sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flour to cook out and the mixture to thicken slightly. Stir in the cream and continue to whisk until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. If you encounter any stubborn lumps, an immersion blender works wonders for a silky-smooth gravy. Turn off the heat; the residual heat will continue to thicken the gravy as it cools slightly.
- Slice, Drizzle, and Serve: Slice the rested turkey breast against the grain into desired portions. Drizzle generously with your freshly made, flavorful gravy. Serve immediately with your favorite holiday sides and enjoy!
How Long Does Turkey Breast Cook in an Instant Pot?
The cooking time for turkey breast in an Instant Pot can vary slightly depending on its exact weight and thickness. A good general guideline to remember is to pressure cook your turkey breast for approximately 5-6 minutes per pound. This ensures that the turkey cooks thoroughly while remaining incredibly moist and tender.
It’s crucial to confirm that your turkey breast fits comfortably within the inner pot of your Instant Pot, especially if you have a larger breast. For instance, a 6-7 pound turkey breast typically fits well in a 6-quart Instant Pot.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, you have two options for pressure release. While a quick release can be used if you are truly pressed for time, allowing for a natural pressure release (NPR) is highly recommended for turkey breast. Natural release helps the meat to relax and reabsorb its juices, guaranteeing a more tender, succulent, and juicy turkey breast. The additional wait time is well worth the superior texture.
Mastering the Art of Homemade Turkey Gravy
One of the true joys of cooking turkey, especially in an Instant Pot, is the incredible flavorful drippings it leaves behind. These golden turkey juices are the foundation for a truly exceptional homemade gravy, offering a depth of flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
The beauty of this recipe is that your delicious turkey gravy is made directly in the Instant Pot insert, leveraging all those concentrated flavors. After removing the cooked turkey breast, simply switch your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. This allows you to build your roux and thicken the gravy using the very same pot. Start by whisking in butter, followed by flour, creating a rich base. Continue whisking gently until the mixture begins to thicken, absorbing the turkey drippings.
This is the perfect stage to taste and adjust the seasonings. Feel free to incorporate additional flavorings such as more fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), a pinch more garlic powder, or even a splash of white wine for extra complexity. Remember to taste as you go; you don’t want the flavors to become overpowering. If the gravy tastes too salty, a small amount of water or unseasoned broth can help to mellow it out.
You have full control over the gravy’s thickness. Adding more flour will yield a thicker gravy, while a bit more liquid will thin it out. I personally adore a thick, rich gravy, but you can easily customize it to your preference. While cornstarch is an alternative thickening agent, I find that flour provides a more classic texture and flavor for this particular turkey gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Both boneless and bone-in turkey breasts work beautifully in this recipe. While I used a boneless breast for its convenience in carving, a bone-in breast can also be used and typically takes about the same amount of time to cook in the Instant Pot, often yielding even more flavorful drippings for your gravy.
The most reliable way to ensure your turkey breast is fully cooked and safe to eat is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding any bones. The minimum internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Additionally, if the juices run clear when pierced, it’s another good indicator of doneness.
Absolutely! Butter is an excellent alternative to olive oil for rubbing on the turkey breast. You can either melt the butter for easy brushing or ensure it is well softened to spread it evenly. Butter will contribute an even richer flavor and help the seasonings adhere beautifully.
Yes, poultry seasoning is a fantastic substitute for sage and often contains a harmonious blend of classic holiday herbs, typically including parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. You can generally substitute 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning for 1 teaspoon of sage, or adjust to your taste preference.
Yes, you can cook a frozen turkey breast in the Instant Pot, though it will require a longer cooking time. You will need to increase the cook time to approximately 50 minutes, possibly more depending on its size and density. However, for the most even cooking and best results, it is always recommended to thaw the turkey breast completely in the refrigerator overnight (or for several days) before cooking as directed in the recipe.
The general guideline for cooking turkey breast in the Instant Pot is 5-6 minutes per pound. So, if you have a 4-pound breast, you’d cook it for 20-24 minutes, and an 8-pound breast for 40-48 minutes. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer. Remember that thickness can also play a role, so prioritize the internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part.
While not strictly necessary for tenderness, searing the turkey breast in the Instant Pot on the “Sauté” setting before pressure cooking can add an extra layer of flavor and help develop a more appealing golden-brown crust, especially if you’re not planning to broil it afterward. If you have time, a quick sear on all sides can enhance the overall taste.
Brining is a fantastic way to ensure extra moisture and flavor in turkey, but it’s often less critical for Instant Pot turkey breast due to the inherent moistness achieved through pressure cooking. The Instant Pot method naturally locks in moisture, making brining an optional step rather than a necessity. If you choose to brine, reduce the amount of added salt in your seasoning rub.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Since your Instant Pot turkey breast brings all the wonderful, comforting flavors of the holidays, why not complement it with a spread of equally festive and delicious sides? Round out your feast with these delightful pairings that will make your meal truly unforgettable.
- Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes: A vibrant and slightly sweet alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering a beautiful color and rich flavor. Find a great recipe for Mashed Sweet Potatoes.
- Classic Green Bean Casserole: A timeless holiday staple, with tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy fried onions. Get the recipe for a comforting Green Bean Casserole.
- Fluffy Honey Butter Rolls: Warm, soft rolls slathered with sweet honey butter are perfect for soaking up every last bit of gravy. Bake up some irresistible Honey Butter Rolls.
- Savory Cornbread Stuffing: A deeply flavorful and textural side that perfectly complements the tender turkey.
- Cranberry Sauce: Whether homemade or store-bought, a tart and sweet cranberry sauce is essential for balance.
- Roasted Vegetables: Glazed carrots, roasted asparagus, or a medley of root vegetables add freshness and color to your plate.
And to finish your meal on a high note, why not a warm and spiced dessert? An Air Fryer Pumpkin Pie is a wonderfully easy and delicious way to conclude your festive dining experience!
Storing Leftover Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Having leftover turkey is one of the best parts of any holiday meal! Properly storing your Instant Pot turkey breast ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness for days to come. In an airtight container, refrigerated turkey breast will stay fresh for approximately 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze your cooked turkey. When stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag, it will maintain its quality for 2-3 months.
The culinary possibilities with leftover turkey are endless and truly exciting! I absolutely adore transforming leftover turkey into new, delicious meals. One of my all-time favorite ways to use up Thanksgiving turkey is by making Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders! They are so good, some might even argue they’re better than the original holiday spread. Other fantastic ideas include turkey salads, wraps, pot pies, creamy turkey casseroles, or hearty turkey chili. Don’t let a single delicious morsel go to waste!
Expert Tips for Reheating Leftover Turkey for Maximum Moisture
Reheating leftover turkey can be tricky; the goal is always to warm it thoroughly without drying it out. Microwaving is generally not recommended as it can quickly make turkey tough and dry. Instead, consider these gentler methods to restore its succulent texture.
One of the best methods, fittingly, is to “re-steam” the turkey breast using your Instant Pot. Here’s how:
- Place the trivet into the insert of your Instant Pot.
- Pour about 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
- Place an oven-safe bowl or heat-safe plate containing your leftover turkey slices on top of the trivet. If you have some leftover gravy or broth, you can add a tablespoon or two over the turkey to enhance moisture.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 5-10 minutes (depending on the amount of turkey and desired warmth).
- Perform a quick release (QR) once the cooking time is up.
- Carefully remove the turkey and enjoy your perfectly re-steamed, moist turkey!
Alternatively, you can gently reheat turkey in the oven. Place slices in an oven-safe dish with a splash of chicken broth or gravy, cover with foil, and warm at 275-300°F (135-150°C) until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes. This slow, moist heat helps prevent drying.
Print Recipe
Instant Pot Turkey Breast
Equipment
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Instant Pot
Ingredients
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2 teaspoons
kosher salt -
2 teaspoons
pepper -
2 teaspoons
sage, ground or rubbed -
1 teaspoon
garlic powder -
2 Tablespoons
olive oil -
6-7 pounds
(2721 g) turkey breast, thawed -
1 cup
(237 ml) chicken broth
For the gravy:
-
2 Tablespoons
(28 g) salted butter -
2 Tablespoons
flour -
1 Tablespoon
(15 g) cream
Garnish:
- Serve with cranberries and rosemary sprigs if desired
Instructions
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Mix the salt, pepper, sage, and garlic powder in a small bowl and set aside.2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons pepper, 2 teaspoons sage, 1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Rub the turkey breast all over with olive oil. Then rub the seasoning mix all over the turkey breast.2 Tablespoons olive oil, 6-7 pounds (2721 g) turkey breast
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Pour chicken broth into the insert of the Instant Pot.1 cup (237 ml) chicken broth
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Place the trivet into the insert of the Instant Pot.
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Place the seasoned turkey breast onto the trivet, skin side up.
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Set the Instant Pot to cook for 40 minutes on high power. Then allow the pressure to release naturally.
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Remove the turkey from the pot and cover with tin foil until ready to serve. Or, if you would like the turkey skin to brown more and be crispy, turn the oven on low broil. Place the turkey on a baking sheet and broil until the skin is crispy and golden. Watch constantly as it can change very quickly.
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Next, make the gravy. Turn on the saute function of the instant pot. Add butter to the liquid in the instant pot. Stir until melted. Gradually add flour while whisking constantly. Cook for 3-5 minutes. Stir in the cream. Turn off the heat. Whisk occasionally, until desired thickness. (It should continue to thicken in the residual heat.)2 Tablespoons (28 g) salted butter, 2 Tablespoons flour, 1 Tablespoon (15 g) cream
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You may pour the gravy over the turkey breast or serve it on the side.
Notes
This turkey breast will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge. Or you may keep it in the freezer for 2-3 months.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving with gravy
,
Calories: 557kcal
,
Carbohydrates: 3g
,
Protein: 98g
,
Fat: 17g
,
Saturated Fat: 5g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
,
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
,
Trans Fat: 1g
,
Cholesterol: 258mg
,
Sodium: 1888mg
,
Potassium: 1153mg
,
Fiber: 1g
,
Sugar: 1g
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition information can vary for a variety of reasons. For the most precise nutritional data use your preferred nutrition calculator based on the actual ingredients you used in the recipe.
The default measuring system for this website is US Customary. Unit conversions are provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. While we strive to provide accurate unit conversions, please be aware that there may be some discrepancies.