If you’re dreaming of a fuss-free yet absolutely mouthwatering dish for your table, Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is the ultimate answer. Imagine succulent, juicy turkey, perfumed with an aromatic blend of herbs, snuggled in your slow cooker while you focus on family or fun. With just a handful of staple ingredients, this recipe truly transforms the humble turkey breast into the star of any meal—holiday or weeknight. Whether you’re serving a crowd or planning leftovers for easy lunches, you’ll fall in love with the simplicity, flavor, and reliability of Slow Cooker Turkey Breast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is just how easy it is to prepare, using simple ingredients that each play a special role. Every item brings something vital—be it savory herbs, a boost of color, or that unbeatable golden skin. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Turkey Breast (4 to 6 pounds, bone-in or boneless, skin on): The centerpiece—choose skin-on for best flavor and moisture retention.
- Salt: Essential for pulling out the turkey’s natural flavor and helping the skin crisp up.
- Black Pepper: Lends gentle heat and balances the herbal notes.
- Garlic Powder: Adds savoriness throughout the turkey.
- Onion Powder: Infuses subtle sweetness and depth.
- Paprika: Gives the skin a gorgeous golden color and mild smokiness.
- Dried Thyme: Brings floral, woodsy flavors that pair perfectly with turkey.
- Dried Rosemary: A classic herb for poultry, giving earthy, pine-like undertones.
- Olive Oil: Helps with browning and locks in juices when you sear the turkey.
- Chicken Broth: Keeps the turkey moist and creates flavorful juices for gravy.
- Onion (quartered): Acts as a flavorful bed for the turkey and adds natural sweetness to the broth.
- Garlic Cloves (smashed): Aromatic and delicious, they infuse the turkey and broth.
- Fresh Rosemary (optional): Extra fragrance and a pretty, rustic touch.
- Fresh Thyme (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh herby notes.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Step 1: Prep and Pat Dry
Begin by gently patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This simple step is vital to ensure the seasoning sticks and that the skin gets golden and beautifully crisp when you sear it. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so take a moment to get everything nicely dry!
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Mixing these together means a quick and even application when you rub the seasoning on the turkey—a blend that will dance deliciously on your taste buds.
Step 3: Season the Turkey
Now, massage the spice mix all over the turkey breast, covering every nook and cranny. This not only flavors the meat itself but also guarantees a gorgeous, fragrant crust after searing. Your hands might get a little messy, but that’s part of the fun!
Step 4: Sear for Extra Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. When hot, add the seasoned turkey breast and sear it on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step is so worthwhile—the deep brown crust means big flavor, and you’ll love the inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 5: Build the Flavorful Base
Toss the quartered onion, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs (if using) into the bottom of your slow cooker. These act as a flavor-infusing rack and will enrich the chicken broth while the turkey cooks slowly above.
Step 6: Add the Broth and Turkey
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, creating a steamy, moisture-rich environment for your turkey. Lay the seared turkey breast on top of the bed of veggies and herbs, skin side up, so that any juices drip down and every bite stays tender and juicy.
Step 7: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook the turkey breast on low for 6 to 7 hours. Be patient—let the slow cooker work its magic until the turkey’s internal temperature reaches a safe and juicy 165°F. Your reward: a fall-apart tender Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, with almost no effort.
Step 8: Rest and Slice
After the turkey is done, let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures that all the lovely juices stay put, creating slices that are moist and flavorful. If you want irresistibly crisp skin, a few minutes under the broiler is a fantastic finishing touch!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Garnishes
Brighten up your platter by scattering fresh rosemary and thyme leaves on the sliced turkey. If you want to add extra color, tuck in a few citrus wedges—like lemon or orange—for a zesty twist. A drizzle of the slow cooker’s herby juices, or classic cranberry sauce, makes every bite pop!
Side Dishes
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast goes well with all the comforting classics: think creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or even a bright green bean almondine. For something lighter, a simple leafy salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette beautifully offsets the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the turkey sliced on a large wooden board for a rustic feel, or fan it out on a platter layered with roasted carrots and onions for a stunning centerpiece. For a casual meal, tuck the turkey into soft rolls with a dollop of cranberry sauce—perfect for easy entertaining!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool leftover Slow Cooker Turkey Breast completely before placing it in an airtight container. Tuck it away in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it moist and ready for quick meals without losing its lovely flavor.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, wrap sliced turkey breast tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or use a freezer bag. It freezes beautifully for up to three months—just remember to label it! Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water, cover, and warm gently in the oven or microwave until just heated through. This gentle method preserves the turkey’s tenderness. Avoid high heat, which can dry out the slices.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless turkey breast?
Absolutely! Both bone-in and boneless work wonderfully with Slow Cooker Turkey Breast. Boneless breasts cook a little faster and are easier to slice, while bone-in may offer even more juiciness.
Do I need to sear the turkey breast?
Searing isn’t strictly required, but it really enhances both the flavor and appearance. That quick golden crust makes the finished turkey more delicious and downright beautiful when sliced.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Definitely! Add carrots, celery, or even potatoes under the turkey before cooking. They’ll absorb delicious juices and become a built-in side dish—no extra pots needed!
How do I get crispy skin in the slow cooker?
Slow cookers can’t crisp up the skin, but a few minutes under the broiler afterward works wonders. Place the turkey under a hot broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until you’ve achieved that irresistible crisp.
What’s the best way to check if the turkey is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. For food safety and perfect juiciness, you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a stress-free and scrumptious centerpiece, give Slow Cooker Turkey Breast a try! With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a new favorite—whether for Thanksgiving feast or an easy Sunday supper.
Print
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A succulent and flavorful slow cooker turkey breast recipe that’s perfect for a hassle-free holiday meal or any time you crave tender turkey. Seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, this dish is easy to prepare and yields juicy slices of turkey with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Turkey:
- 1 (4 to 6-pound) bone-in or boneless turkey breast, skin on
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Braising Liquid:
- 1 cup chicken broth
Aromatics:
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- Sear the Turkey: Brown the turkey in olive oil on both sides until golden.
- Set Up Slow Cooker: Place onion, garlic, and herbs in the slow cooker. Pour in broth.
- Cook: Add the seared turkey on top of the vegetables. Cook on low for 6-7 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Slice: Rest the turkey before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For crispier skin, broil the cooked turkey for a few minutes.
- Enhance flavors by adding carrots and celery to the slow cooker.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
