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If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook bone-in turkey breast, the Instant Pot is a fantastic option. With its pressure cooking capabilities, the Instant Pot can help you achieve tender and juicy turkey in a fraction of the time it would take to roast it in the oven. Plus, it’s a great way to free up valuable oven space for other holiday dishes.

To cook a bone-in turkey breast in the Instant Pot, you’ll first need to prepare the turkey by seasoning it with your choice of herbs and spices. Then, place the trivet in the Instant Pot and add a cup of chicken or vegetable broth. Place the turkey on the trivet, making sure it’s not touching the sides of the pot. Lock the lid in place and set the vent to the sealing position.

Depending on the size of your turkey breast, you’ll need to cook it for a specific amount of time under high pressure. As a general rule of thumb, you can cook a 2-3 pound bone-in turkey breast for about 30 minutes. For larger turkey breasts, increase the cooking time accordingly. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then carefully turn the vent to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.

Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of turkey breast, so it’s always best to consult your Instant Pot’s user manual for specific instructions.

After releasing the pressure, remove the turkey breast from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. The turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Serve your deliciously cooked bone-in turkey breast with your favorite sides and enjoy!

How Long to Cook Bone-in Turkey Breast in Instant Pot

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When it comes to cooking a bone-in turkey breast in an Instant Pot, it is important to follow the proper cooking times to ensure that the meat is cooked through and tender. Here are the general guidelines for cooking bone-in turkey breast in an Instant Pot:

1. Start by preparing the turkey breast by washing it thoroughly and patting it dry with paper towels.
2. Season the turkey breast with your desired spices and herbs. You can use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme for a classic flavor.
3. Place the trivet in the bottom of the Instant Pot and pour in 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth.
4. Place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the trivet, ensuring that it is not touching the liquid.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
6. Set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode and set the timer for 6 minutes per pound of turkey breast. For example, if you have a 4-pound turkey breast, you would cook it for 24 minutes.
7. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, manually release the remaining pressure by carefully switching the valve to the venting position.
8. Remove the turkey breast from the Instant Pot and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving.
9. Carve the turkey breast and serve it with your favorite side dishes.

Keep in mind that cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of the turkey breast, as well as the specific model of your Instant Pot. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the turkey breast reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Enjoy your delicious bone-in turkey breast cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot!

Preparing the Turkey Breast

Before cooking the bone-in turkey breast in the Instant Pot, it is important to prepare the turkey breast properly. Follow these steps:

1. Start by ensuring that the turkey breast is completely thawed. Thawing the turkey breast in the refrigerator is the safest method, and it is recommended to allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 4 pounds of turkey breast.

2. Once thawed, remove the turkey breast from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.

3. If desired, you can marinate the turkey breast to add extra flavor. You can use a pre-made marinade or create your own using herbs, spices, and liquids such as olive oil, citrus juice, or broth. Place the turkey breast in a sealable plastic bag with the marinade, ensuring that it is fully coated. Allow the turkey breast to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.

4. After marinating or if you prefer not to marinate, season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices of your choice. Rub the seasoning evenly over the entire turkey breast.

5. If desired, you can also add aromatics such as onion, garlic, or herbs like rosemary or thyme to the Instant Pot before cooking to infuse additional flavors into the turkey breast.

Once the turkey breast has been properly prepared, you can proceed to cook it in the Instant Pot following the recommended cooking time and instructions.

Setting Up the Instant Pot

Before you can start cooking your bone-in turkey breast in the Instant Pot, you need to ensure that your device is set up properly. Follow these steps to get your Instant Pot ready for use:

Once the Instant Pot has finished preheating, it will beep to indicate that it is ready for use. You are now ready to start cooking your bone-in turkey breast.

Cooking the Turkey Breast

When cooking a bone-in turkey breast in an instant pot, it’s important to follow a few steps to ensure the meat is cooked to perfection.

1. Prepare the turkey breast by patting it dry with paper towels and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
2. Preheat the instant pot by pressing the “Saute” button and adding a small amount of oil or butter to the bottom of the pot. Allow the oil or butter to melt and coat the bottom of the pot.
3. Place the turkey breast, skin side down, in the instant pot and sear it for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is browned and crispy. Use tongs to carefully flip the turkey breast and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove the turkey breast from the instant pot and set it aside. Add some liquid to the pot, such as chicken broth or water, to create steam.
5. Place a trivet in the instant pot and then return the turkey breast to the pot, bone side down. The trivet will keep the turkey breast elevated and prevent it from sitting in the liquid.
6. Close the instant pot lid and set the pressure valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” button and set the cooking time to approximately 6-8 minutes per pound of turkey breast.
7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. Carefully turn the pressure valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
8. Open the instant pot lid and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the turkey breast has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
9. Remove the turkey breast from the instant pot and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute for a moist and flavorful turkey breast.

Now your bone-in turkey breast is ready to be served and enjoyed!

Natural Release vs. Quick Release

When cooking bone-in turkey breast in an Instant Pot, knowing the difference between natural release and quick release is crucial for achieving the desired results.

Natural release is a method where you let the pressure cooker naturally come back to normal pressure without doing anything. This process usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes. It is ideal for delicate proteins like turkey breast as it allows the meat to rest and continue cooking in its residual heat. Natural release helps to avoid overcooking and keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Quick release is a method used to release the pressure in the Instant Pot manually. It involves turning the valve from the sealing position to the venting position. This process allows the steam to escape quickly, bringing the pot to normal pressure within a few minutes. Quick release is typically used when you need to stop the cooking process immediately or when the recipe calls for it. It is not recommended for cooking turkey breast as it can result in dry and tough meat.

It is important to follow the recipe guidelines regarding natural release or quick release to ensure the best outcome for your bone-in turkey breast in the Instant Pot.

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Checking the Internal Temperature

It is important to check the internal temperature of the bone-in turkey breast to ensure it is fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to measure the temperature accurately.

Here are the steps to check the internal temperature of the bone-in turkey breast:

1. Make sure the instant pot is depressurized before opening the lid.
2. Carefully remove the turkey breast from the instant pot using tongs or a slotted spoon.
3. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast without touching the bone.
4. Wait for a few seconds until the thermometer stabilizes and gives a reading.
5. The turkey breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat. This temperature ensures that harmful bacteria are killed.
6. If the internal temperature is below 165°F (74°C), return the turkey breast to the instant pot and cook it for a few more minutes.
7. If the internal temperature is above 165°F (74°C), the turkey breast is overcooked, and you should remove it from the instant pot to prevent it from drying out.

After checking the internal temperature and ensuring it is at least 165°F (74°C), you can safely serve the bone-in turkey breast. Remember to use oven mitts or insulated gloves to handle the instant pot and the hot turkey breast. Enjoy your perfectly cooked turkey!

Q&A

How long should I cook a bone-in turkey breast in the instant pot?

You should cook a bone-in turkey breast in the instant pot for about 6 to 8 minutes per pound. For example, if your turkey breast weighs 4 pounds, cook it for 24 to 32 minutes.

Can I cook a bone-in turkey breast in the instant pot?

Yes, you can cook a bone-in turkey breast in the instant pot. It is a convenient and efficient way to cook turkey, especially if you are short on time.

What is the cooking time for a bone-in turkey breast in the instant pot?

The cooking time for a bone-in turkey breast in the instant pot varies depending on the weight of the turkey. As a general guideline, cook the turkey for about 6 to 8 minutes per pound.

Do I need to add any liquid when cooking a bone-in turkey breast in the instant pot?

Yes, it is recommended to add at least 1 cup of liquid, such as chicken broth or water, to the instant pot when cooking a bone-in turkey breast. This helps to create steam and ensures that the turkey stays moist and tender.

How do I know when the bone-in turkey breast is cooked in the instant pot?

You can check if the bone-in turkey breast is cooked by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for the turkey to be fully cooked. Alternatively, you can also check if the turkey is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

How long does it take to cook bone-in turkey breast in an Instant Pot?

It typically takes about 35-40 minutes per pound to cook a bone-in turkey breast in an Instant Pot.

Can I cook a bone-in turkey breast in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook a bone-in turkey breast in an Instant Pot. It is a convenient and quick way to cook a turkey breast, and it results in tender and juicy meat.