If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping centerpiece that’s both elegant and bursting with flavor, you’ve got to try this Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey. This dish brings together the perfect blend of sweet honey glaze, aromatic spices, and juicy turkey breast, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s for a festive occasion or a special Sunday dinner, the caramelized glaze and tender meat never fail to impress and satisfy. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you because it transforms a simple turkey breast into a beautifully glazed masterpiece that’s sure to become your new favorite.

Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey recipe is thoughtfully chosen for its role in building layers of flavor and giving the dish its inviting texture and gorgeous color. From the warm spices in the rub to the luscious honey glaze, these simple essentials work in harmony to create something truly spectacular.

3 lb boneless turkey breast: The star of the dish, lean and perfect for soaking up the flavorful glaze.
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the turkey.
1/2 tsp poultry seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds a subtle herbal note ideal for turkey.
1/2 tsp ground paprika: Adds a hint of smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Deepens the savory profile without overwhelming the turkey.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Brings a mild, warming depth to the seasoning mix.
1/4 tsp black pepper: A gentle kick that balances the sweet glaze beautifully.
2 tbsp unsalted butter (plus extra for the glaze): Melts into the turkey for richness and helps develop a golden crust.
1/3 cup honey: The heart of the glaze, delivering that irresistible sweet and sticky finish.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy brightness, creating a complex contrast to the honey.
2 tbsp white wine: Helps deglaze and lift the flavors in the glaze while adding subtle acidity.

How to Make Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey

Step 1: Season the Turkey

Start by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels—this step is crucial because moisture can stop the seasoning from sticking properly. Then, mix your kosher salt, poultry seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper together. Rub this fragrant blend all over your turkey breast, making sure it’s evenly coated. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least eight hours or overnight. This resting time allows the spices to seep into the meat, promising a burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Prepare and Roast the Turkey

Bring your turkey breast back to room temperature by taking it out of the fridge and unwrapping it. Preheat your oven to 325°F and place the bird in a baking dish. Melt the butter and generously brush it over the turkey’s surface. This buttery layer is what helps create that irresistible golden crust. Roast the turkey for the first 30 minutes, allowing it to gently cook and start developing flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Glaze

While your turkey is roasting, it’s time to craft the glaze that will make this turkey unforgettable. Combine honey, unsalted butter, white wine, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a bubbling simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce it and let it thicken slightly as you stir for 2 to 3 minutes. The honey’s rich sweetness paired with the tang of Dijon transforms into a luscious glaze that clings beautifully to the turkey.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish Roasting the Turkey

After the initial roasting, take the turkey out carefully and brush one-third of the glaze evenly over the surface. If the skin is browning too quickly, cover the bird loosely with foil to prevent burning. Pop it back into the oven and roast for another 30 minutes. Then, brush on another one-third of the honey glaze and roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. This repeated glazing ensures every inch is glossy, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized.

Step 5: Finish and Rest the Turkey

Once the turkey is perfectly cooked, lift it out of the oven and slather the remaining glaze on top. Then, tent it loosely with foil and give it a 15-minute rest. This is the moment where the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making every slice tender and moist. Trust me, skipping this resting step is a mistake you don’t want to make!

How to Serve Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey

Garnishes

To elevate this Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey even more, consider fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, thyme sprigs, or thinly sliced lemon zest. These introduce pops of color and freshness that contrast wonderfully with the rich glaze. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or pomegranate seeds can also add texture and a jewel-like appearance.

Side Dishes

Because our turkey carries a sweet and savory profile, sides that provide balance work best. Roasted root vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a refreshing apple and fennel salad make perfect partners. For something green and crisp, sautéed green beans with almonds or a tangy cranberry chutney can brighten the plate and complement the honey glaze beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a feast-worthy presentation, carve the turkey into elegant, thick slices and fan them on a platter lined with fresh herbs. Drizzle any leftover glaze over the top for a glam finish. Another fun idea is serving smaller turkey medallions atop creamy polenta or wild rice, garnishing with microgreens to delight both eyes and palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (and trust me, you might!), wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate. Leftover glazed turkey stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or second-helping dinners during the week.

Freezing

This dish also freezes well. Slice the cooled turkey into portions and wrap each piece individually. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to keep the glaze separate and add it fresh upon reheating for the best texture and shine.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy your saved turkey, reheat gently in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil to keep moisture locked in. Warm for about 15 to 20 minutes depending on thickness, then brush with a little fresh glaze to revive that fantastic honey-roasted sheen and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a whole turkey instead of a boneless breast?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a whole turkey, but cooking times will increase significantly. Make sure to monitor the internal temperature carefully and apply the glaze multiple times to achieve that signature shine and taste.

What type of honey works best for the glaze?

Local, raw honey is ideal because it has a rich flavor and natural sweetness that really shines through the glaze. However, any good-quality honey will do the trick just fine.

Can I prepare the seasonings and glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix your seasoning rub and even prepare the glaze a day before. Store them separately in airtight containers and bring to room temperature before using. This can save a lot of time on cooking day!

Is it necessary to use white wine in the glaze?

While white wine adds a lovely acidity and depth, feel free to substitute it with chicken broth or apple cider vinegar if preferred. Each alternative will give a slightly different flavor but still complement the honey glaze beautifully.

How do I know when the turkey is perfectly cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F at the thickest part of the breast. This ensures the turkey is juicy, safe to eat, and ready to impress.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely can’t recommend this Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey enough. It’s a dish that marries humble ingredients with bold, comforting flavors in a way that feels both classic and special. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a surefire way to create memorable moments around the table. Give it a try—you’ll be delighted by how effortlessly stunning and delicious this turkey turns out!

Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey

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This Glazed Honey Roasted Turkey recipe offers a tender and juicy boneless turkey breast infused with a flavorful rub and finished with a sweet and tangy honey glaze. Roasted to perfection, this dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 8 hours or overnight marinating)
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Season the Turkey: Pat the 3 lb boneless turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small dish, combine 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly all over the turkey breast. Wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Prepare and Roast the Turkey: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove the seasoned turkey breast from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Place it in a baking dish. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and rub it over the surface of the turkey breast to promote browning and moisture retention. Roast the turkey in the oven for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Honey Glaze: While the turkey is roasting, combine 1/3 cup honey, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons white wine, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-high until it starts to bubble, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Using good-quality Dijon mustard will enhance the tanginess.
Glaze and Finish Roasting the Turkey: After the initial 30 minutes of roasting, remove the turkey from the oven and brush one-third of the honey glaze evenly over the turkey breast. Tent loosely with aluminum foil if the skin browns too fast. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 30 minutes. Then, remove again, brush with another one-third of the glaze, and roast for a final 15 minutes or until the thickest part of the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste well each time for even glazing.
Finish and Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey has reached the appropriate internal temperature, take it out of the oven and brush the remaining glaze over the top. Loosely cover the turkey with foil and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, yielding a moist and flavorful turkey breast.

Notes

For best flavor, season the turkey breast and refrigerate overnight.
If the turkey skin browns too quickly during roasting, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches 165°F at the thickest part for food safety.
Letting the turkey rest after roasting helps retain juices and makes carving easier.
Local Hive honey or any high-quality honey will enhance the glaze flavor.