Name: Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 33 min
Total time: 1 h 3 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 oz onion soup mix; 6 lb turkey breast; 2 ribs celery; 1 onion; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp water; 1 tbsp cornstarch

This Instant Pot® turkey breast recipe is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a delicious, juicy turkey. Perfect for any holiday or weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Photos of Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, like onion soup mix, celery, and onion. However, make sure to get a fresh turkey breast from the meat section and a box of chicken broth if you don't have them at home. These are key to achieving the best flavor.

Ingredients For Instant Pot® Turkey Breast

Onion soup mix: A flavorful blend of dried onions and seasonings, perfect for adding depth to your turkey.

Turkey breast: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy main course.

Celery: Adds aromatic flavor and moisture to the turkey as it cooks.

Onion: Enhances the savory taste of the turkey and the gravy.

Chicken broth: Keeps the turkey moist and adds rich flavor to the gravy.

Water: Used to mix with cornstarch to make the gravy.

Cornstarch: Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.

One reader, Conrade Allard says:

This Instant Pot turkey breast recipe is a game-changer! The meat is incredibly juicy and flavorful, and the gravy is simply divine. Perfect for a quick and delicious family dinner.

Conrade Allard

Techniques Required for Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe

How to use an electric pressure cooker: Explanation on how to properly seal, set, and release pressure from the cooker. How to mix cornstarch and water: Explanation on how to create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with water to thicken the gravy. How to sauté in an electric pressure cooker: Explanation on how to change the setting to sauté and properly use it to thicken the gravy.

How To Make Instant Pot® Turkey Breast

Make your turkey breast recipe an easier dish to prepare with the use of Instant Pot®. All flavorful spices and broth are cooked together for a tasty meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 33 minutes

Additional Time: 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour 3 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1ozonion soup mix
6lbturkey breast,thawed
2ribs celery,cut into large chunks
1onion,cut into large chunks
1cupchicken broth
2tbspwater
1tbspcornstarch,or more as needed

Instructions

Sprinkle onion soup mix all over the turkey breast and place it in the pot of an electric pressure cooker. Place celery and onion chunks over and around turkey breast. Pour chicken broth over turkey breast.
Seal pressure cooker and bring to high or low pressure on the ‘Poultry’ setting or according to manufacturer’s instructions; cook until juices run clear for about 30 minutes.
Release pressure through the natural-release method for about 20 minutes. Transfer turkey breast to a plate and slice.
Change the electric pressure cooker setting to ‘Saute.’ Mix water and cornstarch together in a bowl; add a small amount of hot liquid from the pot.
Mix until dissolved; pour into the pot and whisk well until thickened for about 3 minutes.
Serve gravy alongside turkey.

Nutrition

Calories: 566.95kcal
Fat: 24.29g
Saturated Fat: 6.61g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.23g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.73g
Carbohydrates: 6.03g
Fiber: 0.67g
Sugar: 1.44g
Protein: 75.73g
Cholesterol: 222.03mg
Sodium: 537.07mg
Calcium: 57.92mg
Potassium: 1041.43mg
Iron: 4.25mg
Vitamin A: 9.34µg
Vitamin C: 1.65mg

Technique Tip for Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe

To ensure your turkey breast stays moist and flavorful, consider brining it for a few hours before cooking. This will help the meat retain moisture and enhance its natural flavors.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Turkey Breast in an Instant Pot®

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the celery and onion the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-made broth: Opt for store-bought chicken broth to eliminate the need for making it from scratch.

Quick release method: If you're in a hurry, use the quick release method instead of natural release to save 20 minutes.

Instant gravy mix: Use an instant gravy mix instead of making it from scratch to save time on thickening the sauce.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe

onion soup mix - Substitute with homemade onion seasoning blend: A mix of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and a bit of salt can replicate the flavor profile of onion soup mix.
turkey breast - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean white meat that cooks similarly to turkey breast and can be used in the same way.
celery - Substitute with carrots: Carrots provide a similar crunch and sweetness, making them a good alternative to celery.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in place of onions for a subtler taste.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a flavorful and vegetarian alternative to chicken broth.
water - Substitute with white wine: White wine can add a depth of flavor that water cannot, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent that can be used in place of cornstarch, especially for those looking for a gluten-free option.

Presentation Tips for Instant Pot® Turkey Breast

Carve the turkey breast elegantly: Slice the turkey breast into thin, even pieces, ensuring each slice showcases the juicy and tender meat. Arrange the slices in a fan-like pattern on a pristine white plate.
Create a bed of vegetables: Place the celery and onion chunks that were cooked with the turkey in a neat pile in the center of the plate. This not only adds flavor but also provides a visual contrast to the turkey slices.
Drizzle with rich gravy: Using a small ladle, drizzle the thickened gravy made from the chicken broth, water, and cornstarch over the turkey slices. Ensure the gravy is glossy and smooth, adding a luxurious touch to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary on top of the turkey slices. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma and flavor profile of the dish.
Serve with a side of seasonal vegetables: Complement the turkey with a side of roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Arrange these vegetables neatly on the side of the plate to add variety and balance.
Add a touch of elegance with microgreens: Sprinkle a few microgreens around the plate for a touch of sophistication and a burst of freshness. This adds a modern twist to the classic dish.
Finish with a light glaze: Lightly brush the turkey slices with a honey and butter glaze to give them a beautiful sheen and an extra layer of flavor. This subtle sweetness will elevate the overall taste experience.

Essential Tools for Making Turkey Breast in an Instant Pot®

Electric pressure cooker: This is the main appliance used to cook the turkey breast. It uses high pressure to cook the meat quickly and evenly.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the chicken broth accurately.
Knife: Essential for chopping the celery and onion into chunks.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the vegetables.
Mixing bowl: Used to mix the water and cornstarch together.
Whisk: Helps to dissolve the cornstarch mixture and whisk it into the pot to thicken the gravy.
Serving plate: Used to transfer and slice the cooked turkey breast.
Tongs: Useful for handling the hot turkey breast when transferring it from the pressure cooker to the plate.
Meat thermometer: Optional but useful for ensuring the turkey breast is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
Ladle: Used to pour the hot liquid from the pot into the mixing bowl for the cornstarch mixture.

Storing and Freezing Instant Pot® Turkey Breast

To store leftover turkey breast, let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
If you want to freeze the cooked turkey breast, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped turkey in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen turkey breast, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. You can also thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting, but be sure to cook it immediately after thawing.
When reheating stored or frozen turkey breast, ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness. You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water to maintain moisture.
Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, transfer the gravy to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. If the gravy is too thick, add a little broth or water to thin it out.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Breast

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the leftover turkey breast in a baking dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the dish. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Slice the leftover turkey breast and arrange the slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the turkey, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover turkey breast slices in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat the turkey for 3-5 minutes, or until it is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you have a sous vide machine, you can use it to reheat your leftover turkey breast without drying it out. Place the turkey slices in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag with the air removed. Set your sous vide machine to 145°F (63°C) and submerge the bag in the water bath for 30-45 minutes, or until the turkey is heated through.
For a flavorful twist, slice the leftover turkey breast and add it to a soup or stew. The moisture from the broth will help reheat the turkey while infusing it with additional flavor. Simmer the soup or stew until the turkey is heated through, which should take about 10-15 minutes.

Interesting Fact About Instant Pot® Turkey Breast

A unique aspect of this Instant Pot® turkey breast recipe is that it uses onion soup mix to season the turkey breast, adding a rich and savory flavor without the need for additional spices.

Is Making Turkey Breast in an Instant Pot® Cost-Effective?

The instant pot® turkey breast recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With a 6 lb turkey breast, onion soup mix, celery, onion, chicken broth, and basic pantry staples like cornstarch, the total cost is approximately $25-$30. This provides a hearty meal for a family of four, with potential leftovers. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Turkey Breast Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The instant pot turkey breast recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of lean protein from the turkey breast. The use of onion soup mix and chicken broth adds flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or unhealthy fats. The celery and onion provide some additional nutrients and fiber to the dish. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

The onion soup mix may contain high amounts of sodium, which can be a concern for those watching their salt intake. Consider using a low-sodium version or making your own mix with less salt.
The gravy, while adding moisture and flavor, is thickened with cornstarch, which is a refined carbohydrate. To make the recipe healthier, you could skip the gravy altogether or experiment with alternative thickeners like arrowroot or pureed vegetables.
The recipe could benefit from the addition of more vegetables to increase the nutrient content and provide a more balanced meal. Try adding carrots, mushrooms, or even sweet potatoes to the pot for extra flavor and nutrition.

To further enhance the health benefits of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Serve the turkey with a side of steamed or roasted non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts to add more fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal.
If you choose to include a gravy, experiment with using a small amount of whole wheat flour or pureed vegetables as a thickener instead of cornstarch.
Incorporate herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, garlic, or paprika to add flavor without relying on salt.
Use a low-sodium chicken broth or even water to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Remove the skin from the turkey breast before cooking to reduce the amount of saturated fat in the final product.

Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe

This recipe for Instant Pot turkey breast is a time-saver and perfect for a hassle-free holiday meal. The onion soup mix adds a savory depth, while the pressure cooker ensures the turkey remains juicy and tender. The addition of celery and onion enhances the flavor profile. The gravy, thickened with cornstarch, is a delightful finishing touch. However, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Overall, it's a straightforward and efficient way to prepare a delicious turkey breast.

Enhance Your Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the glaze, creating a symphony of flavors that will complement your turkey breast exquisitely.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with the rich aroma of roasted garlic. These potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, providing a smooth and velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory gravy from your turkey breast.

Cranberry Orange Relish: A zesty and refreshing cranberry relish with a hint of orange zest. This vibrant side dish adds a burst of color and a tangy-sweet contrast to the savory turkey breast. It's like a little celebration of flavors on your plate.

Maple Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a luscious maple syrup coating. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the rich, caramel-like flavor of the maple, making it a perfect side dish to add a touch of elegance and warmth to your main course.

Wild Rice Pilaf: A hearty and earthy wild rice pilaf studded with dried fruits and nuts. This side dish offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, providing a nutty, slightly sweet, and chewy complement to the tender turkey breast.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Instant Pot® Turkey Breast

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast: Infuse your turkey breast with a medley of fresh herbs and garlic. This recipe brings out the natural flavors of the meat while keeping it juicy and tender. Perfect for a holiday feast or a special family dinner.

Garlic Butter Turkey Breast: Elevate your turkey breast with a rich and savory garlic butter sauce. The butter adds a luxurious texture, while the garlic provides a robust flavor. Ideal for those who love a bit of indulgence in their main course.

Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast: Add a sweet and tangy twist to your turkey breast with a cranberry glaze. The cranberries offer a burst of flavor that complements the savory meat perfectly. A delightful dish for festive occasions.

Lemon Herb Turkey Breast: Brighten up your turkey breast with a zesty lemon and herb marinade. The lemon adds a refreshing citrus note, while the herbs provide a fragrant aroma. A light and flavorful option for any meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Instant Pot® Turkey Breast

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, while a hint of Parmesan brings a rich, umami flavor. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and will leave your guests craving more.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with Bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic come together on a crispy baguette slice, drizzled with olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a refreshing and vibrant starter that pairs perfectly with a glass of wine.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine the delight of cutting into a warm, chocolate lava cake and watching the rich, molten chocolate center flow out. This decadent treat is perfect for those who crave a deep, intense chocolate experience. The exterior is a perfectly baked cake with a slightly crisp edge, while the inside remains gooey and luscious. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor.

Lemon Meringue Pie: For a refreshing and tangy finish to your meal, consider a lemon meringue pie. This classic dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a zesty lemon curd that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. The crowning glory is a cloud of meringue, whipped to stiff peaks and lightly browned to perfection. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, from the crisp crust to the silky lemon filling and the airy meringue. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, or enjoy it at room temperature for a comforting treat.

Why trust this Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe:

This Instant Pot turkey breast recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks. The onion soup mix adds a burst of flavor, while the pressure cooker ensures the turkey breast is tender and juicy in just 30 minutes. The celery and onion infuse the dish with aromatic goodness, and the chicken broth keeps it moist. The gravy made with cornstarch and water is the perfect finishing touch. Trust this recipe for a delicious, hassle-free meal.

Have you tried this Instant Pot® Turkey Breast Recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know your experience!

FAQ:

Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a frozen turkey breast, but you'll need to increase the cooking time. Typically, add about 10-15 minutes to the pressure cooking time for a frozen turkey breast.

What can I use instead of onion soup mix?

If you don't have onion soup mix, you can make a simple substitute by mixing dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, and a bit of garlic powder.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

The turkey is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

Can I add other vegetables to the pot?

Absolutely! You can add carrots, potatoes, or any other vegetables you like. Just make sure they are cut into chunks so they cook evenly with the turkey.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover turkey and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should be good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.