How Long to Cook Turkey Breast in Pressure Cooker: Cooking Perfectly

By Avi Green February 02, 2024

Barbecue enthusiasts, welcome to the ultimate guide on how long to cook turkey breast in pressure cooker. The art of barbecuing encompasses more than just outdoor grills; it involves mastering a variety of cooking methods to achieve mouthwatering results. Pressure cooking your turkey breast can yield tender, juicy meat in a fraction of the time. But how long should you cook it to perfection?

Let's break down the cooking process and figure out the precise timing needed for a succulent turkey breast.

Why Choose a Pressure Cooker?

A pressure cooker is a game-changer for preparing various meats. It cuts down cooking time, retains more nutrients, and preserves the natural flavors of the food. For barbecue enthusiasts looking to achieve tender turkey breast quickly, a pressure cooker is an excellent choice.

Benefits of Using a Pressure Cooker

Efficiency in cooking time.
Retained nutrients and enhanced flavor.
Less cleanup, which means more time with your guests.
Flexible options for seasoning and flavoring.

So, if you're ready to impress your family and friends with a perfectly cooked turkey breast, let's dive into the specifics.

Getting Started: What You Need

Before we delve into the cooking times, gather the essential tools and ingredients:

A quality pressure cooker
1-2 turkey breasts (bone-in or boneless)
Savory rub or seasoning of choice
Chicken broth or water
A meat thermometer

Having everything prepared will ensure a smooth cooking experience and a delicious end result.

Prepping the Turkey Breast

Preparation is critical to achieving tender and flavorful turkey breast. Follow these steps:

Seasoning the Turkey

Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat dry.
Rub your chosen seasoning or marinade thoroughly over the turkey breast.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Seasoning your turkey is crucial in infusing flavor before pressure cooking.

Searing the Turkey

Before placing the turkey breast in the pressure cooker, sear it on all sides in a hot skillet. This adds an extra layer of flavor and creates a beautiful crust on the outside.

Setting Up the Pressure Cooker

With the turkey breast seasoned and seared, it's time to set up your pressure cooker:

Adding Liquid

Pour 1 to 2 cups of chicken broth or water into the pressure cooker. This liquid is necessary to create steam and pressure, ultimately cooking the turkey breast to perfection.

Placing the Turkey

Position the turkey breast on a trivet or steaming basket within the pressure cooker. This keeps it elevated and prevents direct contact with the liquid, ensuring even cooking.

Cooking Times for Turkey Breast

The cooking time for turkey breast depends on its size and whether it's bone-in or boneless. Here are the general guidelines:

Boneless Turkey Breast

For a boneless turkey breast, cook it at high pressure for 6 minutes per pound. For example, a 3-pound turkey breast would need 18 minutes.

Bone-In Turkey Breast

For a bone-in turkey breast, cook it at high pressure for 8 minutes per pound. For instance, a 4-pound turkey breast would require 32 minutes.

Remember, these times are approximate and it's essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C).

Consulting Additional Resources

For more detailed instructions on cooking various meats in a pressure cooker, check out Serious Eats Guide.

Releasing the Pressure

Once the cooking time is completed, you'll need to release the pressure from the cooker. There are two methods:

Natural Release

Allow the pressure to release naturally. This usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes. This method results in a more tender turkey breast as it continues to cook slowly.

Quick Release

If you're short on time, use the quick release method by turning the pressure release valve. This will release the steam rapidly.

Checking Doneness with a Thermometer

To ensure your turkey breast is fully cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165F (74C) at the thickest part of the breast.

Serving Your Perfectly Cooked Turkey Breast

Once the turkey breast is ready, remove it from the pressure cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful meat. Slice and serve your turkey breast with your favorite barbecue sides.