If you’ve been hunting for a comforting, easy-to-execute dish that feels both hearty and special, then you have to try this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe. Imagine a tender, juicy turkey breast infused with an aromatic blend of herbs and spices, slow-cooked to perfection while you relax or tackle your day. This recipe takes the guesswork out of roasting turkey and delivers consistently moist meat with a golden crust, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe uses a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create a flavorful, aromatic profile. Each item plays a vital role, enhancing the turkey’s natural richness, adding depth, and balancing texture perfectly.
- Turkey breast (4 to 6 pounds): Choose bone-in or boneless with skin on for the best moisture and flavor.
- Salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for seasoning the meat and bringing out its natural taste.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick without overpowering.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Provides savory undertones that complement the poultry beautifully.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile with a mild sweetness.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives the turkey a lovely color and mild smoky nuance.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Brings an earthy herbal touch to the blend.
- Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Adds fragrant piney notes that elevate the dish.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing the turkey, locking in juices and developing a golden crust.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Creates a moist environment that keeps the turkey juicy during slow cooking.
- Onion, quartered (1): Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the slow cooker base.
- Garlic cloves, smashed (4): Infuses subtle garlic flavor into the broth and meat.
- Fresh rosemary (2 sprigs, optional): For a fresh, herbaceous aroma during cooking.
- Fresh thyme (2 sprigs, optional): Lends bright, herbal notes to the slow cooker liquid.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Turkey
Start by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels—this step is key for achieving a crispy skin later. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Rub this aromatic seasoning blend all over the turkey breast, making sure every inch is coated. The seasoning mix ensures each bite is bursting with balanced flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Turkey
Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast in the pan and sear it for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful golden crust. This step not only locks in moisture but also adds an enticing color and taste that makes the final dish visually and flavorfully irresistible.
Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker
Place the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herb sprigs (if you’re using them) at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables—this forms a fragrant steam bath that keeps the turkey moist throughout the long cooking process.
Step 4: Cook the Turkey
Place the seared turkey breast on top of the onion and garlic mixture inside the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s perfectly cooked while remaining tender and juicy.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing every slice is moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme scattered lightly on top add a fresh burst of color and aroma to your turkey slices. A drizzle of pan juices or a simple homemade gravy can enhance the richness and create an irresistible presentation.
Side Dishes
This turkey pairs beautifully with classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, or even a bright cranberry sauce to add a touch of tart sweetness. For a lighter meal, consider a crisp green salad or steamed green beans.
Creative Ways to Present
For festive gatherings, arrange slices of the turkey breast atop a bed of wild rice pilaf or place them alongside buttery dinner rolls to create a hearty sandwich. You can even shred leftovers for turkey tacos or salads, offering versatile meals beyond the initial feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the meal, any leftover turkey breast should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, preserving its moisture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe even later, slice the turkey and place it in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent clumping. It stays good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat turkey slices gently in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel or warm them in a low oven wrapped in foil to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to prevent the meat from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Both bone-in and boneless turkey breasts work well in this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe. Bone-in tends to add a bit more flavor and moisture, but boneless is easier to carve and still delicious.
Is it necessary to sear the turkey before slow cooking?
While not mandatory, searing is highly recommended as it adds a lovely golden crust and locks in moisture, resulting in more flavor and better texture in the finished dish.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes! Carrots, celery, or potatoes make excellent additions to the slow cooker. They complement the turkey and soak up the rich cooking juices, making your meal even more complete.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
No problem! The dried herbs in the seasoning mix already build a wonderful flavor. Fresh herbs are optional but do add an extra burst of freshness and aroma during cooking.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. The turkey breast is safely cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures juicy meat with no risk of undercooking.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals whenever I want to bring comfort and ease to the table without sacrificing flavor or tenderness. The simple ingredients come together effortlessly, yielding a stunningly juicy turkey with mouthwatering aroma and a golden sear. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, I hope you enjoy making and sharing this cozy, crowd-pleasing dish as much as I do.
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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 Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe offers a tender, juicy, and flavorful turkey breast perfect for an easy and hands-off meal. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, seared to a golden brown, and slow-cooked with aromatics and chicken broth, this dish is ideal for holiday dinners or anytime you want a delicious main course without constant attention in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 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
Cooking Liquids and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 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 thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear.
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Mix well to ensure an even seasoning blend.
- Season the Turkey: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly all over the entire turkey breast, coating the skin and any exposed areas for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the turkey breast on both sides until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds a flavorful crust.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs (if using) into the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth to add moisture and flavor during slow cooking.
- Cook the Turkey: Place the seared turkey breast on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once fully cooked, transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then, slice and serve.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, after slow cooking, place the turkey breast under a broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- To enhance flavor and add vegetables, include sliced carrots and celery in the slow cooker along with the onion and garlic.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F to guarantee it is safe to eat.
- You can use either bone-in or boneless turkey breast depending on your preference; cooking time may vary slightly.
