Copycat Honey Baked Ham Co. Turkey Breast Recipe
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| Bring home that sweet-savory Honey Baked Ham Co. flavor with juicy turkey breast, a buttery glaze, and caramelized edges made for holiday dinners. |
If you love the Honey Baked Ham Co. Turkey Breast, you already know why people keep going back for it. It’s tender, juicy, lightly sweet, and finished with that glossy, flavorful coating that makes each slice feel a little special. The good news? You can make a delicious copycat turkey breast recipe at home without a lot of stress.
This recipe is made for home cooks who want that familiar holiday-style flavor any time of year. It’s simple enough for a Sunday dinner, but pretty enough for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or a family gathering.
If you’ve ever stood at the deli counter wondering if you could recreate that savory-sweet turkey at home, the answer is yes. Let’s do it.
Why People Love Honey Baked Ham Co. Turkey Breast
The Honey Baked Ham Company has become known across the USA for holiday meals, glazed meats, and easy entertaining. Their products are popular because they bring that comforting, celebratory feel to the table without making people spend all day in the kitchen.
Their turkey breast stands out because it’s not just plain roasted turkey. It has a rich, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness, a golden outside, and slices that stay moist instead of dry. The aroma is warm and inviting, with notes of roasted poultry, butter, honey, and gentle spices.
This post shares a copycat version inspired by Honey Baked Ham Co. turkey breast. It is not the restaurant’s actual recipe, and we are not affiliated with the brand. We’re simply recreating the style and flavor many people know and love.
What Makes This Copycat Turkey Breast So Good
This recipe works because it builds flavor in layers.
- A simple seasoned butter mixture helps keep the turkey moist.
- Chicken broth in the pan adds moisture while it roasts.
- A honey-brown sugar glaze gives that signature sweet finish.
- A quick oven broil at the end helps create a lightly caramelized top.
Think of it like giving turkey a little holiday makeover. Instead of dry, forgettable slices, you get tender meat with a shiny, flavorful coating that tastes like it took much more effort than it really did.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham Co. Turkey Breast Ingredients
Serves: 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Rest time: 15 to 20 minutes
- 1 boneless turkey breast roast, about 4 to 5 pounds, thawed if frozen
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of ground cloves, optional
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Roasting pan or 9x13-inch baking dish
- Foil
- Small mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Basting brush or spoon
- Meat thermometer
If you only take one tip from this post, let it be this: use a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out and helps prevent dry turkey.
How to Make Copycat Honey Baked Ham Co. Turkey Breast
Step 1: Preheat the oven.
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Lightly grease your roasting pan or baking dish.
Step 2: Prep the turkey breast.
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and encourages better browning. If your turkey breast has netting on it, leave it on if the package directions say it is oven-safe. If not, remove it carefully and tie the roast with kitchen twine if needed so it holds its shape.
Step 3: Make the seasoning paste.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Stir until it forms a spreadable paste.
Step 4: Season the turkey.
Rub the butter mixture all over the turkey breast. Be sure to coat the top and sides well. This layer adds flavor and helps protect the meat from drying out in the oven.
Step 5: Add broth to the pan.
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Don’t pour it over the turkey. You want it around the turkey so it adds moisture while roasting.
Step 6: Roast the turkey.
Place the turkey in the oven uncovered. Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F in the thickest part. Start checking early, especially if your roast is on the smaller side.
Food safety note: Turkey is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F. Because the temperature usually rises a few degrees while resting, you can remove it from the oven at 160°F and let carryover cooking finish the job. Always verify with a food thermometer.
Step 7: Make the glaze.
While the turkey roasts, stir together the honey, brown sugar, melted butter, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, paprika, and cloves if using. The glaze should be smooth and pourable. If the brown sugar is clumpy, warm the mixture in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds and stir again.
Step 8: Glaze near the end of cooking.
When the turkey is almost done, brush or spoon some glaze over the top and sides. Return it to the oven for 10 minutes. Then brush on another layer of glaze.
Step 9: Broil for a lightly caramelized finish.
Turn the oven to broil for 1 to 3 minutes, watching very closely. This step helps create that glossy, slightly sticky finish. Honey and sugar can burn fast, so don’t walk away. It can go from golden to scorched in a blink.
Step 10: Rest before slicing.
Remove the turkey from the oven and loosely tent with foil. Let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This step matters. Resting lets the juices settle back into the meat, which means moister slices.
Step 11: Slice and serve.
Slice the turkey breast thinly for that deli-style look, or cut thicker slices if you prefer. Spoon a little pan juice over the meat before serving for extra flavor.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
These values are estimates and can vary based on the brand and size of your turkey breast.
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
Tips for the Best Copycat Turkey Breast
- Don’t skip drying the turkey. A dry surface helps it roast better.
- Use softened butter, not melted butter, for the seasoning layer so it stays in place.
- Check the temperature early. Turkey breast can dry out if overcooked.
- Let it rest. Cutting too soon lets the juices run out.
- Slice against the grain for the most tender bite.
If you’ve had dry turkey before, this recipe may win you back. The glaze helps with flavor, but the real secret is careful roasting and not overcooking.
Easy Time-Saving Options
Want to make this even easier? Here are a few simple options for busy days.
Use a fully cooked turkey breast:
Buy a fully cooked boneless turkey breast from the grocery store. Warm it covered in a 325°F oven with a little broth in the pan, then glaze and broil at the end. This cuts down cooking time a lot.
Slow cooker option:
Place the seasoned turkey breast in a slow cooker with 1/2 cup broth. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, depending on size, until it reaches 165°F. Transfer to a baking dish, brush with glaze, and broil for a few minutes to finish.
Air fryer finish:
If you roast the turkey first and want extra caramelization, brush slices or smaller portions with glaze and give them a quick air fryer finish at 375°F for 2 to 4 minutes. Watch closely.
Allergy-Friendly and Diet Modification Ideas
One thing I always appreciate in a recipe is flexibility. Not every table looks the same, and that’s okay. Here are ways to adjust this copycat Honey Baked turkey breast recipe for different needs.
Gluten-free:
- This recipe is naturally close to gluten-free, but always check your chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and seasonings for hidden gluten.
- Use a certified gluten-free broth and mustard to be safe.
Dairy-free:
- Replace the butter with dairy-free buttery sticks or a neutral oil.
- Use dairy-free butter in both the seasoning mixture and glaze.
Lower sugar:
- Cut the brown sugar in half for a less sweet glaze.
- You can also use a sugar substitute designed for baking, though the texture of the glaze may change a bit.
Lower sodium:
- Use low-sodium chicken broth.
- Reduce the added salt slightly and rely more on herbs and garlic powder.
Paleo-style:
- Use ghee instead of butter.
- Swap the brown sugar for a little extra honey or use date syrup.
- Double-check that your mustard ingredients fit your preference.
Whole30-style inspiration:
- Skip the sugar and honey glaze.
- Instead, use a brushed finish of ghee, compliant mustard, and a pinch of cinnamon and paprika for a savory version.
Mustard-free:
- Leave out the Dijon and use a small splash of apple juice or broth in the glaze instead.
Spice adjustments:
- If your family prefers classic holiday flavors, increase the thyme a little.
- If you want a warmer glaze, add a tiny pinch more cinnamon or cloves.
- If you want it less sweet, pull back on the honey.
What to Serve with Turkey Breast
This turkey pairs well with both holiday sides and simple weeknight favorites.
- Mashed potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Mac and cheese
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Stuffing or dressing
- Cranberry sauce
- Dinner rolls
- Simple garden salad
And don’t forget leftovers. This turkey is fantastic in sandwiches, sliders, wraps, salads, or even chopped into a creamy turkey casserole the next day.
Storage and Reheating
To store:
Let the turkey cool, then place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze:
Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat:
Place slices in a baking dish with a splash of broth. Cover with foil and warm at 300°F until heated through. This helps keep the meat moist.
Food safety reminder:
Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Common Questions
Can I use a bone-in turkey breast?
Yes, but the cooking time will likely be longer. Always cook by temperature, not just time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can roast it earlier in the day, then reheat it gently with broth and add fresh glaze before serving.
Can I use turkey tenderloins instead?
Yes. They cook much faster, so check them early. They’re a nice shortcut for a smaller meal.
Is this exactly the same as the restaurant version?
No. This is a homemade copycat recipe inspired by the sweet-savory flavor and glazed finish people enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This copycat Honey Baked Ham Co. Turkey Breast recipe brings that cozy, special-occasion flavor right into your own kitchen. It’s moist, flavorful, and just sweet enough to feel a little fancy without being hard to make.
I love recipes like this because they hit that sweet spot between easy and impressive. You pull it out of the oven, brush on that glossy glaze, and suddenly dinner feels like an event.
If you make this recipe, please share it with friends and family, and leave a comment with your favorite side dishes or any changes you tried. Did you go classic with mashed potatoes, or turn it into sandwiches the next day? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you.
Disclaimer
This is a copycat recipe inspired by the style and flavor of a popular restaurant dish. It is not the actual recipe, and no knowledge of the restaurant’s proprietary recipe is implied. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Honey Baked Ham Co.
Simply Copycat Recipes is also an Amazon affiliate. This means we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links, at no extra cost to you.
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