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Cozy Maple Bourbon Glazed Turkey Breast for Two: Best Date Night Recipe

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A juicy, flavorful turkey breast seared in a cast iron skillet and glazed with a sweet and smoky maple bourbon glaze. Perfect for an intimate date night dinner that feels special without being fussy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 2 to 2.5 pounds / 900g to 1.1 kg)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for garnish (optional)
  • Roasted vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans) for serving (optional)
  • Mashed potatoes or crusty bread for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
  2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, butter, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk together and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly and glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Heat a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat. Carefully place the turkey breast skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Using a basting brush, generously coat the seared turkey breast with about half of the maple bourbon glaze. Reserve the rest for later. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 minutes.
  5. After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the oven and brush on another layer of glaze. Return to the oven and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured at the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. This usually takes about 35-45 minutes total.
  6. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. While it rests, warm the remaining glaze over low heat, adding a splash of water or bourbon if it’s too thick.
  7. After resting, carve the turkey breast against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange on a platter, drizzle with the warmed glaze, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting time; it allows juices to redistribute. Apply glaze in layers for a caramelized crust. If the turkey browns too quickly, tent with foil. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with apple cider.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bourbon glazed turkey breast, date night recipe, turkey for two, cast iron turkey, easy turkey recipe

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/cozy-maple-bourbon-glazed-turkey-breast-for-two-best-date-night-recipe/