What Temperature Is Turkey Breast Done to Perfection

Turkey breast tastes best when it is juicy and tender.

To get it right, you must cook it to the correct internal temperature. 

This guide explains the exact temp you need, where to check it, and how to avoid overcooking your turkey breast.

Simple steps, clear numbers, and easy-to-follow instructions help you get perfect results every time.

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The Exact Temperature Turkey Breast Is Done

Turkey breast is done at 165°F (74°C).

This is the USDA safe temperature for all poultry.

Many cooks take the turkey breast off the heat at 160°F (71°C) and then let it rest.

The temperature rises during the rest period; this carryover heat brings the meat up to 165°F.

This keeps the breast juicy instead of dry.

The rule is simple:

• Remove from heat at 160°F

• Rest until it reaches 165°F

This works for roasting, grilling, or smoking.

How to Check the Temperature Correctly

Use a digital meat thermometer.

Slide the probe into the thickest part of the breast; do not touch bone, as it can cause a false reading.

Check in two spots if the breast is large.

If the numbers are close, your reading is accurate.

If you want a full, complete list of turkey temps and doneness levels, you can see this helpful guide:

👉 Best Smoked Turkey Temperature Chart

https://behindthegrill.com/blog/best-smoked-turkey-temperature-chart

Why Turkey Breast Overcooks Fast

Turkey breast has very little fat.

When the internal temperature goes past 165°F, the fibers tighten and push moisture out; even 5–10 extra degrees can change the texture.

Cooking at a steady heat helps keep moisture in.

Many cooks roast at 325°F to help the breast cook gently and evenly.

Estimated Cook Times for Turkey Breast

Cook time depends on size and whether it is bone-in or boneless. 

Here are simple estimates:

• Boneless turkey breast: 20–25 minutes per pound at 325°F

• Bone-in turkey breast: 22–30 minutes per pound at 325°F

These are only guides; the thermometer is the true way to know when it is done.

For more details on internal temperatures of turkey (whole or breast), you can also see:

👉 What Should the Internal Temperature of a Turkey Be? Discover Now!

https://behindthegrill.com/blog/what-should-the-internal-temperature-of-a-turkey-be-discover-now

Roasting, Grilling, and Smoking Turkey Breast

Each method gives a different flavor; the goal stays the same: hit 165°F at the end of the rest.

Roasting

Roasting keeps heat even.

Brush with oil or butter for color and moisture.

Roast until the thermometer reads 160°F.

Grilling

Grilling cooks faster.

Use medium heat; turn the breast often so it cooks evenly without burning.

Smoking

Smoking gives deep flavor.

Many cooks smoke at 225°F until the meat reaches 160°F.

Rest until it hits 165°F.

If you like using smoking or temperature charts during cooks, the Easy Function Meat Temperature Guide Magnet can help because it lists safe temps in a simple, quick-view layout that sticks to your grill or fridge; it makes checking temps fast and stress-free.

Buy Easy Function Meat Temp Guide - Amazon Canada

Buy Easy Function Meat Temp Guide - Amazon USA

Resting the Turkey Breast

Rest your turkey breast for 10–15 minutes.

During the rest:

• The juices spread back into the meat

• The internal temperature rises to 165°F

If you slice too early, the juices leak out and the breast becomes dry.

Signs Your Turkey Breast Is Perfectly Cooked

Along with your thermometer, look for these signs:

• Clear juices

• White, moist meat

• Easy slicing without resistance

These signs help confirm doneness.

Easy Tips for Juicier Turkey Breast

Brining

A salt-water brine adds moisture and flavor; even a short brine helps.

Butter or Oil

Rubbing the outside helps the breast brown and stay moist.

Foil

If the skin darkens too fast, cover it loosely with foil.

Fixing Common Turkey Breast Problems

Dry meat

This means it reached too high a temp; pull at 160°F next time.

Undercooked meat

If it reads under 160°F, return it to the heat; check again in a few minutes.

Uneven cooking

Tuck the thin end under or protect it with a piece of foil.

Final Thoughts

Cooking turkey breast to perfection is simple when you follow the right temperature.

Just remember:

• Cook to 160°F

• Rest to 165°F

• Use a thermometer every time

If you want an easy way to keep all meat temps handy during cooks, feel free to check out our Easy Function Meat Temperature Guide Magnet.

Click the image to explore this and our other BBQ tools.