Save Pin This dish features tender turkey breast carefully layered with thin smoked ham slices beneath the skin for added moisture and flavor. The glaze combines honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes. Roasting with fresh herbs and aromatics like thyme, rosemary, onion, and garlic infuses the meat with rich savory aromas. Basting during cooking ensures a moist, golden crust. Rest before slicing to lock in juices and serve alongside spring vegetables or potatoes.
Last Easter, my kitchen was chaos until I realized I could simplify everything by combining two family favorites into one stunning centerpiece. The house filled with this incredible honey mustard aroma that had everyone gathering around the oven door. My cousin actually asked if I'd secretly hired a caterer.
I stumbled upon this technique during a Christmas dinner when I accidentally bought way too much ham and had to improvise. Now my family requests this specific preparation every single holiday, and the leftover sandwiches the next day are legendary. Something magical happens when those drippings mingle with the chicken broth.
Ingredients
- Turkey breast: Boneless with skin is essential here, it needs that fatty layer to protect the meat while roasting
- Smoked ham: Thin slices work best because they mold perfectly under the skin and release flavor gradually
- Honey: Creates that beautiful caramelized finish, but maple syrup adds wonderful depth if you want to experiment
- Dijon mustard: The sharpness cuts through the richness and helps the glaze cling to every inch
- Apple cider vinegar: Balances all that sweetness and keeps the flavors bright
- Fresh thyme and rosemary: These woody herbs can handle the long cooking time without turning bitter
- Chicken broth: Prevents those aromatics from burning while creating an instant pan sauce base
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Get it to 180°C (350°F) and position your rack in the middle for even heat distribution
- Prep the turkey:
- Pat it completely dry, then gently slide your fingers under the skin to create pockets, taking care not to tear it
- Layer the ham:
- Press those smoky slices directly onto the meat, smoothing them out so they cover the breast evenly
- Season generously:
- Rub olive oil all over and sprinkle with salt and pepper, getting under the skin where possible
- Build the base:
- Scatter onion quarters, smashed garlic, and herb sprigs across your roasting pan like a fragrant bed
- Whisk the glaze:
- Combine honey, Dijon, brown sugar, and vinegar until completely smooth
- Start roasting:
- Set the turkey on your aromatics, pour in the broth, and brush with half the glaze
- Baste and glaze again:
- After the first hour, brush with remaining glaze and spoon those pan juices over the top
- Finish to perfection:
- Roast another 30 minutes until a thermometer hits 74°C (165°F) and that skin is golden
- Rest before carving:
- Tent loosely with foil for 15 minutes so all those juices redistribute
Save Pin Watching my dad's face when he sliced into that first piece, revealing the marbled ham inside, was absolutely priceless. Now this is the only way my extended family will eat holiday turkey.
Getting Ahead
You can prep everything the night before, layer the ham under the skin, and keep it wrapped tight in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.
Perfect Pairings
Scalloped potatoes with that creamy sauce are my go to, or roasted asparagus with lemon brings brightness to the rich meat. A dry Riesling cuts through the glaze beautifully.
Leftover Strategy
The next day, pile thin slices onto good bread with extra glaze and sharp cheddar for the ultimate ham and turkey sandwich.
- Freeze any leftovers in portions with some pan juices for instant future meals
- That extra glaze keeps in the fridge for weeks and is incredible on grilled chicken
- Save the roasted aromatics and blend them into your gravy for next level flavor
Save Pin This dish has become my favorite way to bring everyone together without spending the entire holiday trapped in the kitchen.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the turkey breast moist during roasting?
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Layering smoked ham beneath the skin adds moisture, and basting with the honey mustard glaze and pan juices throughout cooking helps maintain juiciness.
- → Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
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Yes, the honey, mustard, brown sugar, and vinegar glaze can be mixed ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.
- → What herbs complement this roast best?
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Fresh thyme and rosemary paired with aromatics like onion and garlic enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the meats.
- → Is it important to let the meat rest before slicing?
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Allowing the roast to rest for about 15 minutes helps redistribute juices, ensuring tender and juicy slices.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
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Roasted spring vegetables or scalloped potatoes provide a perfect accompaniment to balance the rich flavors of the roast.
- → Can I add a smoky flavor to the glaze?
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Adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze introduces a subtle smoky note that enhances the overall profile.
