Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is the definition of convenience and flavor. Tender, juicy turkey cooked low and slow in your crockpot, with minimal prep and maximum taste. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or need a hassle-free holiday main dish, this turkey breast will make your life easier and your taste buds happier. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to roasting the traditional way!

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

• Set It and Forget It: This recipe is perfect for busy days. You simply prep the turkey, set it in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic while you go about your day.
• Moist and Tender: The slow cooking process locks in moisture, keeping the turkey breast juicy and tender every time. No dry turkey here!
• Flavorful and Simple: A few simple seasonings are all you need to transform this turkey into a flavorful main dish. The slow cooker infuses the meat with amazing herbs and spices, creating a mouthwatering aroma throughout your home.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a Sunday dinner, or a regular weeknight meal, this turkey breast is versatile enough for any occasion. It’s a great choice when you want to serve something special without the fuss.
• Minimal Prep: With just a few ingredients and a little prep, this dish practically cooks itself. You won’t need to babysit it, and the results will wow your family or guests.

Ingredients

This turkey breast is as easy as it gets. Here’s what you’ll need:

Turkey Breast

The star of the show! Choose a boneless, skinless turkey breast for a convenient and easy-to-carve option.

Olive Oil

Helps to create a crispy exterior and locks in the turkey’s natural juices while it cooks.

Garlic Powder

A must-have seasoning that adds savory flavor to the turkey without overpowering it.

Onion Powder

Gives a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the garlic perfectly.

Dried Rosemary

This herb adds a fragrant, earthy taste that pairs beautifully with turkey.

Dried Thyme

A classic herb for turkey dishes, thyme adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.

Salt and Pepper

Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper enhance all the other flavors and bring the turkey to life.

Chicken Broth

Used to keep the turkey moist as it cooks and infuses it with extra flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to make this slow cooker turkey breast:

Prep the Turkey

Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures a golden crust.

Season the Turkey

In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning blend all over the turkey, making sure it’s well-coated.

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. This will keep the turkey moist and help create a flavorful base for the drippings.

Cook the Turkey

Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker, breast-side up. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a crispy skin, you can broil the turkey in the oven for 5-7 minutes after slow cooking.

Rest the Turkey

Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the turkey and serve with your favorite sides. It’s that easy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 220

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5-6 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

This turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and classic combination.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes for a hearty and nutritious side.
• Gravy: Use the turkey drippings from the slow cooker to make a flavorful homemade gravy.
• Cranberry Sauce: Add a touch of sweetness with some cranberry sauce to complement the savory turkey.

Additional Tips

• Use Bone-In Turkey: You can use bone-in turkey breast if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the cooked turkey for up to 3 months.
• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to get creative with the seasonings! Try adding sage, paprika, or lemon zest for a different flavor profile.
• Moisture: If your turkey looks a little dry during cooking, add more broth to the slow cooker. The liquid helps ensure it stays moist and flavorful.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I cook this turkey breast on high instead of low?

A1: Yes! If you need to speed things up, you can cook the turkey on high for 3-4 hours, but I recommend cooking on low for the most tender result.

Q2: Can I use a frozen turkey breast?

A2: It’s best to thaw the turkey breast before cooking it in the slow cooker for even cooking and better texture.

Q3: How do I make gravy from the drippings?

A3: To make gravy, simply strain the drippings from the slow cooker into a saucepan, and whisk in some flour or cornstarch to thicken it. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Q4: Can I use this recipe for a whole turkey?

A4: This recipe is specifically for turkey breast, but you can adapt it for a whole turkey if you have a large enough slow cooker. Just be sure to increase the cooking time.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Q6: How do I reheat the turkey?

A6: Reheat the turkey in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of broth to keep it moist. You can also slice it and reheat it in the oven.

Q7: Can I use other herbs like basil or oregano?

A7: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.

Q8: How do I know when the turkey is done?

A8: The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. You can use a meat thermometer to check.

Q9: Can I cook this turkey breast without the skin?

A9: Yes! You can remove the skin before cooking if you prefer. Just note that it might not be as crispy, but it will still be juicy and flavorful.

Q10: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

A10: Yes, you can! Add vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes to the slow cooker along with the turkey to create a one-pot meal.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is a game-changer for easy, juicy, and flavorful turkey. It’s perfect for busy days, holiday meals, or anytime you want a delicious main dish with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work for you, and the result is a turkey that’s moist, tender, and full of flavor. Give it a try, and you’ll see how easy it is to enjoy a perfect turkey every time!

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