Description
Bold, spicy, and juicy Cajun turkey breast with a golden crust—perfect for holidays or hearty family meals.
Ingredients
For the Turkey:
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1 whole turkey breast (5–7 lbs, bone-in, skin-on)
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2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
For the Cajun Rub:
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2 tbsp smoked paprika
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1 tbsp garlic powder
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1 tbsp onion powder
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1 tbsp dried thyme
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1 tbsp dried oregano
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2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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2 tsp black pepper
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2 tsp salt
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1 tsp white pepper
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1 tsp ground cumin
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Optional: 1 tsp brown sugar
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1 lemon, halved (optional, for roasting/serving)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Let turkey rest at room temperature for 30–45 minutes.
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Pat dry the turkey thoroughly with paper towels and place on a roasting rack in a pan.
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Mix Cajun Rub ingredients in a bowl.
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Coat turkey with olive oil/butter and rub seasoning all over, including under the skin.
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Roast for 90–120 minutes (20 mins/lb), until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
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Rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Brine overnight for even juicier results.
- For less heat, reduce cayenne pepper to ½–1 tsp.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Store leftovers up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Cajun / American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 6 oz cooked turkey)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg