Rosemary Thyme Turkey Breast – A Nuwave/Flavorwave Oven Delight

There’s a particular magic that happens when the scent of roasting herbs fills the kitchen, a promise of comfort and warmth. For me, that scent is inextricably linked to crisp autumn evenings and the cozy glow of my Nuwave oven. This recipe for Rosemary Thyme Turkey Breast, especially when prepared from frozen in an oven like the Nuwave or Flavorwave, instantly transports me back to those cherished moments. The simplicity of it, the way the herbs meld and permeate the succulent meat, makes it a go-to for busy weeknights and an effortless centerpiece for impromptu gatherings.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 Turkey Breast
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 1 (4 lbs) Frozen Turkey Breast
• 3 tablespoons Rosemary, dried
• 3 tablespoons Thyme, dried
• 2 ½ tablespoons Garlic Salt (or regular salt if preferred)

Equipment Needed

• Nuwave Oven or Flavorwave Oven
• Small bowl for mixing rub
• Meat thermometer (highly recommended)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your aromatic rub. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the rosemary, thyme, and garlic salt. Ensure these dry ingredients are well combined to create a uniform seasoning blend.
2. Next, you’ll want to prepare the frozen turkey breast for the rub. Dunk the frozen turkey breast in warm water for one to two minutes. This brief immersion is a crucial step; it softens the outer surface of the turkey just enough to allow the herb and garlic salt mixture to adhere effectively, creating a beautiful, flavorful crust as it cooks.
3. Once the skin is slightly pliable, pat the turkey breast dry gently with a paper towel. This step further helps the rub to stick. Then, place the rub all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. Be generous with the herb mixture to maximize flavor penetration.
4. Now, it’s time to cook. Place the seasoned turkey breast directly into your Nuwave Oven (or Flavorwave Oven). Set the oven to high heat. The initial cooking time will be between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
5. During the cooking process, keep an eye on your turkey. If the turkey begins to get too brown on one side, you can flip it over about three-quarters of the way through the cooking time. This technique helps to brown both sides of the turkey evenly, ensuring a golden-brown exterior all around.
6. Alternatively, if you wish to cook mostly on one side and it’s browning too quickly, you can cover that side with foil to protect it from further browning while the other side continues to cook.
7. The most reliable way to ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey breast. For a “well done” turkey, the internal temperature should read 180°F.
8. If the temperature is lower than 180°F, cook for an additional 10 minutes, then check the temperature again. The exact cooking time can vary depending on how frozen the turkey breast was initially, so checking with a thermometer is key. As a guideline, it’s wise to start checking for doneness after about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes of cooking.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For an even more robust herb flavor, consider using fresh rosemary and thyme if available. Finely chop them and mix them with the garlic salt. You might need to slightly increase the quantity if using fresh herbs, as their flavor can be more delicate.

If your turkey breast is particularly large or small, or if your Nuwave/Flavorwave oven runs hotter or cooler than standard, always defer to a meat thermometer. It’s the surest way to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy turkey every time. Remember, the 180°F internal temperature is for a well-done turkey, which is often preferred for poultry to ensure all bacteria are eliminated.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Rosemary Thyme Turkey Breast is wonderfully versatile. It’s excellent served hot, sliced thinly, alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The fragrant herbs make it a delightful option for sandwiches the next day, especially when paired with a tangy cranberry sauce or a smear of aioli.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm slices in a covered dish with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	490 kcal
Calories from Fat	191 kcal
Total Fat	21.3 g	32%
Saturated Fat	5.8 g	29%
Cholesterol	196.6 mg	65%
Sodium	181.1 mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	3.3 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.6 g	2%
Sugars	0.1 g	0%
Protein	66.9 g	133%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is crafted for simplicity, feel free to experiment! A pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky depth to the rub. For a brighter, more citrusy note, a teaspoon of dried orange zest could be a welcome addition. If you find garlic salt too potent, you can substitute it with 1 tablespoon of regular salt and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh rosemary and thyme instead of dried?
A: Yes, you can. If using fresh herbs, finely chop them and you may want to use a slightly larger quantity, about 2 tablespoons of each, as their flavor can be more subtle than dried.

Q: My turkey breast is browning too quickly. What can I do?
A: If your turkey breast starts to brown excessively before it’s cooked through, you can cover the browned areas with aluminum foil. This will shield them from direct heat and allow the rest of the turkey to cook evenly.

Q: How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
A: The most accurate way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should register 180°F for a well-done turkey.

Q: Can I cook a fresh turkey breast using this recipe?
A: This recipe is specifically designed for a frozen turkey breast, as the initial dunk in warm water is part of the preparation. If using a fresh turkey breast, you would skip the dunking step and adjust the cooking time, likely reducing it significantly. Always use a thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Q: What is the purpose of dunking the turkey breast in water?
A: Dunking the frozen turkey breast in warm water for a minute or two softens the outer layer of the skin. This makes it more receptive to the herb and garlic salt rub, allowing the seasonings to adhere better and create a more flavorful crust during cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Rosemary Thyme Turkey Breast recipe is a testament to how straightforward ingredients and thoughtful preparation can yield incredibly delicious results, especially with the convenience of modern appliances like the Nuwave or Flavorwave ovens. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try and discover the wonderful aromas and flavors it brings to your home. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary triumphs and any creative twists you introduce – happy cooking!