Cooking a whole turkey can feel overwhelming, especially for small gatherings or weeknight dinners. That’s where the Slow Cooker Turkey Breast comes in! Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, this recipe gives you all the deliciousness of oven-roasted turkey without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with perfectly cooked turkey and rich, savory juices that are ideal for making gravy. It’s a stress-free option for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 (4–6 lb) turkey breast, bone-in or boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prep the Turkey
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil or melted butter, coating it evenly.
Step 2: Season Generously
- Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the spice blend all over the turkey breast.
Step 3: Place in Slow Cooker
- Pour broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the turkey breast inside, skin side up.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Crisp the Skin (Optional)
- For crispy skin, transfer the turkey breast to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5–6 minutes, watching closely.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.
Variation
- Garlic Butter Turkey Breast: Add extra garlic and melted butter for a rich, savory flavor.
- Herb-Crusted Turkey: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme for a holiday twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat.
Cooking Notes
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Bone-in turkey breast tends to be juicier, but boneless works well too.
- Don’t overfill the slow cooker; the turkey should fit comfortably.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a full Thanksgiving meal.
- Serve leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or wraps.
- Drizzle with homemade gravy made from the slow cooker juices.
Tips
- Use broth instead of water for richer flavor.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
- If making for a holiday, prepare gravy ahead of time to save stress.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Total Time: About 7 hours
Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 48g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
- It’s best to thaw turkey breast completely before cooking for even results.
2. Do I need to baste the turkey?
- No, the slow cooker keeps it moist, so basting isn’t necessary.
3. Can I make gravy from the slow cooker juices?
- Yes! Just strain the juices, simmer with a little cornstarch slurry, and season to taste.
4. How long will leftovers last?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
5. Can I cook turkey breast and vegetables together?
- Yes, add carrots, potatoes, and onions to the bottom of the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a game-changer for holiday dinners and cozy family meals. Juicy, flavorful, and effortless, it’s perfect for small gatherings or when you don’t want to deal with roasting a whole turkey. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a tender and delicious turkey every time!