How Long Do Boston Market Turkey Breast Medallions Last?
Shelf Life and Storage Tips
Boston Market's Turkey Breast Medallions offer a convenient way to enjoy a traditional, Thanksgiving-like meal any time of the year. These medallions, made from cooked turkey breast meat and seasoned with flavors like autolyzed yeast extract and turkey stock, promise a flavorful experience that's characteristic of Boston Market's home-style cooking.
When stored properly, these turkey breast medallions can last for a significant period. In general, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days after opening. If you need to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option, extending their shelf life to about two months while maintaining their quality and delicious flavor.
For the best flavor and texture, it's essential to follow proper storage instructions. Keeping these medallions in airtight containers or their original packaging helps retain their moisture and taste, ensuring that every bite is as enjoyable as the last.
Product Overview
Boston Market Turkey Breast Medallions are a convenient and tasty meal option. These medallions consist of tender turkey breast pieces, carefully prepared to ensure they remain moist and flavorful. The turkey breast is known for its lean quality, making it a healthier protein choice compared to other meats.
The product includes a mix of seasonings that enhances the natural taste of the turkey. Common ingredients used in the seasoning include garlic powder, minced onion, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt. These seasonings provide a balanced flavor profile that complements the turkey medallions well.
Preparation instructions vary depending on the cooking method. For best results, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided on the packaging. The medallions can be cooked in a microwave or conventional oven.
Here is a quick preparation overview:
Microwave: Remove the tray from the carton without piercing the film. Cook on high as per the recommended time, then stir and re-cover before cooking again.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the tray on a baking sheet and bake following the time guidelines on the package.
The texture and flavor of the turkey medallions are preserved through careful preparation and seasoning. This attention to detail ensures a satisfying meal every time. Boston Market Turkey Breast Medallions offer both convenience and taste, making them a popular choice for busy individuals or families looking for a quick yet nourishing meal.
Nutritional Value
Boston Market Turkey Breast Medallions provide valuable macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals critical for maintaining a balanced diet. This section outlines the detailed nutritional composition focusing on macronutrient breakdown and essential micronutrients.
Macronutrient Composition
Turkey breast medallions from Boston Market offer an efficient source of protein, contributing to muscle repair and growth. Each 369g package contains approximately 33% protein.
The fat content stands at around 19%, including both saturated and unsaturated fats, which are essential for energy and supporting cell function. The carbohydrate percentage is about 48%, aiding in energy provision.
The total calorie count per package is 240 calories, making it a moderate-calorie meal option. These medallions also contain sodium for electrolyte balance, although monitoring intake is advisable due to high levels in processed foods.
Vitamins and Minerals
These turkey medallions are a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals. Notably, they provide niacin (B3), which aids in digestion and skin health. The presence of riboflavin (B2) helps in energy production and cellular function.
Additionally, folic acid supports red blood cell formation, while reduced iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood.
Calcium content supports bone health but is present in lower quantities. Although not dominant in whey solids or lactose, these medallions do contain some added ingredients for flavor and preservation, impacting the nutritional profile.
Understanding these values helps in maintaining a balanced diet while enjoying Boston Market's offerings.
Proper Storage
Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain the quality and safety of Boston Market turkey breast medallions. Both refrigerated and freezer storage options offer specific guidelines to ensure the medallions stay fresh and safe for consumption.
Refrigerated Storage
When storing in the refrigerator, use an airtight container or resealable bag to keep the turkey breast medallions at their best. They typically remain fresh for up to 3-5 days under these conditions.
Checking for any signs of spoilage, such as changes in smell or appearance, is crucial. Food safety is paramount, so make sure the refrigerator maintains a temperature at or below 40°F (4°C). It's recommended to place the medallions on a shelf, not in the door, to ensure consistent cooling.
Freezer Storage
For extended storage, freezing is an excellent option. Properly wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil, freezer wrap, or placed in a high-quality freezer bag, the turkey breast medallions can last for up to 2-3 months without significant quality loss.
Label the packaging with the freezing date to keep track of how long they've been stored. Freezer storage helps preserve the medallions by halting bacterial growth, but always check for freezer burn, which may affect taste and texture. Avoid thawing and refreezing to maintain food safety and quality.
Shelf Life
Boston Market's Cooked Turkey Breast Medallions typically have a shelf life of 3-5 days when stored in the refrigerator.
Food Safety is crucial. The fridge temperature should be maintained at 40°F (4°C) or below. Storing the medallions in an airtight container or resealable bag helps keep them moist and preserves flavor.
When unsure, always check the expiration date on the packaging. Appearance and smell can be good indicators of freshness. If the turkey breast medallions look or smell off, it’s best to discard them.
Preparation Methods
Cooking Boston Market turkey breast medallions to safe and delicious perfection involves specific procedures. Key considerations include reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F and handling hot steam with care.
Microwave Cooking
Microwave preparation is convenient and efficient. Place the tray directly from the carton into the microwave without piercing or removing the film. For an 1100-watt microwave, cook the medallions on high for 4-5 minutes. Let the tray stand for 1-2 minutes to allow steam to escape and even cooking.
Use caution when removing the film, as hot steam can cause burns. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid reheating the tray in the microwave to prevent safety hazards.
Conventional Oven Cooking
For a more traditional approach, preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the tray from the outer carton and peel back the film to vent. Place the tray on a baking sheet and position it on the center rack of the oven.
Bake the medallions for about 30 minutes. Stir the contents and re-cover the tray, then bake for another 15-18 minutes. Allow the tray to stand for 1-2 minutes before handling, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Serving Suggestions
When preparing Boston Market turkey breast medallions, consider pairing them with complementary dishes and sauces to enhance the overall dining experience.
Accompanying Dishes
Turkey breast medallions pair wonderfully with classic side dishes. Mashed potatoes are a staple, providing a creamy and rich texture that complements the lean turkey meat.
Stuffing, often seasoned with herbs and spices, adds depth and flavor, balancing the meal. Vegetables like carrots and green beans offer a healthy, colorful contrast and help in rounding out the plate.
To add a touch of warmth and comfort, consider roasted vegetables which not only provide a hearty texture but also a diverse flavor profile.
Sauce Pairings
A good sauce can elevate the taste of turkey breast medallions significantly. Gravy is a natural choice; its rich and savory flavor is a perfect match for the mild taste of turkey.
A cranberry sauce provides a sweet and tangy contrast and works exceptionally well with the turkey's savory notes. For those who prefer a bit of heat, a mustard or peppercorn sauce can add a spicy kick that enhances the flavors.
Experimenting with different sauces like a light wine reduction can also provide new and exciting tastes that complement the turkey medallions beautifully.
Food Safety Guidelines
For safe consumption, ensure Boston Market Turkey Breast Medallions reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a food thermometer to confirm this. Placement of the thermometer is crucial: check the thickest part of the breast, the junction between body and thigh, and the junction between body and wing.
Cooking Instructions are vital. Keep the medallions frozen until ready to use. Always follow the recommended cooking methods and avoid using a toaster oven. This will help prevent uneven heating and potential food safety issues.
When microwaving, cut the film to allow steam to escape. Be cautious, as hot steam can cause burns. After cooking, let the food stand for a couple of minutes to ensure even heat distribution.
Never reheat the tray the medallions come in, as it is not designed for reheating. This could lead to chemical leaching or uneven reheating, which compromises food safety.
Storage of the medallions is crucial. Keep them frozen until you're ready to cook. Once cooked, any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. This helps maintain the quality and safety of the food.
Foods like these turkey medallions should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth. Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F before consuming.
These guidelines ensure the food remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Brand Information
Boston Market is a reputable brand known for serving delicious and traditional American meals. They offer a variety of home-style dishes, focusing heavily on meat, especially their turkey breast medallions.
Boston Market’s turkey breast medallions are described as tenderloin medallions made from real turkey breast. They use quality ingredients like autolyzed yeast extract, maltodextrin, and natural flavoring. The meals often come with sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and gravy.
The brand emphasizes convenient and wholesome eating. Each product undergoes inspection by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This ensures the meals are safe and meet high standards of quality.
Their frozen meals typically contain around 290 calories, with 19 grams of protein per serving. They cater to those seeking a quick, nutritious meal without compromising flavor or tradition.
