When it comes to easy, delicious meals, few can compare to a slow cooker turkey breast. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a juicy, flavorful turkey that practically cooks itself. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, hosting a family gathering, or simply looking for a comforting meal, this slow cooker turkey breast recipe is sure to impress.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker to prepare turkey breast has several advantages:
- Convenience: Simply season your turkey, set it in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you attend to other tasks.
- Juiciness: Slow cooking keeps the turkey moist and tender, reducing the risk of dry meat that often comes from oven-roasting.
- Flavorful Results: The slow cooking process allows the flavors of your herbs and spices to meld beautifully with the turkey.
Ingredients
To make this delectable slow cooker turkey breast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 boneless turkey breast (about 3-5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey
- Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Rub the olive oil over the turkey breast, then coat it evenly with the spice mixture.
Step 2: Slow Cook
- Set Up the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the turkey, being careful not to wash off the seasoning.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For best results, use a meat thermometer.
Step 3: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Turkey: Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the turkey breast and serve it with your favorite sides. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the slices for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they complement the turkey perfectly.
- Green beans: A healthy, vibrant side that adds a pop of color to your plate.
- Stuffing: A classic pairing, especially during the holidays.
- Cranberry sauce: For a touch of sweetness that balances the savory turkey.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
- Choose the Right Turkey: A boneless turkey breast is easier to slice and serve, but bone-in breasts will add extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Make sure the turkey fits comfortably in the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
This slow cooker turkey breast recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking a hassle-free, delicious meal. With minimal preparation and a few simple ingredients, you can create a centerpiece dish that your family and friends will love. So dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy tender, flavorful turkey that’s perfect for any occasion!
Here are some helpful Serving and Storage Tips for your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast to ensure you enjoy every delicious bite while keeping it fresh for later:
Serving Tips
- Slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice the turkey breast against the grain. This ensures tender slices that are easier to chew and enhances the overall dining experience.
- Garnishing: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary as a garnish for an appealing presentation. A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only looks beautiful but also adds a burst of flavor.
- Sauces: Serve the turkey with a variety of sauces or gravies. Homemade cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, or even a tangy mustard sauce can enhance the dish.
- Accompaniments: Offer a selection of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Some great options include:
- Roasted vegetables
- Stuffing or dressing
- Sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes
- A refreshing salad
- Leftovers: Encourage guests to take home leftovers. This ensures that nothing goes to waste and lets them enjoy the meal again.
Storage Tips
- Cooling: Allow any leftover turkey breast to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the storage container, which can lead to sogginess.
- Refrigerating: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- Freezing: If you have a significant amount of turkey left, consider freezing it. Slice the turkey and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen turkey in the refrigerator overnight. Warm it in the oven at a low temperature (about 325°F or 160°C) until heated through, or use the microwave in short intervals, adding a bit of broth or water to keep it moist.
- Creative Leftover Recipes: Transform your turkey leftovers into new dishes. Consider making turkey sandwiches, salads, soups, or casseroles to prevent monotony and reduce food waste.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your slow cooker turkey breast and its leftovers while keeping everything safe and flavorful!
FAQ 1: Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker?
Answer: It is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker. Slow cookers heat food slowly, which can keep the turkey in the “danger zone” (between 40°F and 140°F) for too long, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. For best results, thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator before cooking it in the slow cooker.
FAQ 2: How can I ensure my slow cooker turkey breast stays juicy?
Answer: To keep your turkey breast juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, adding chicken broth to the slow cooker helps maintain moisture. Letting the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking also helps retain juices.
FAQ 3: Can I use different seasonings for the turkey breast?
Answer: Absolutely! The beauty of cooking a turkey breast in a slow cooker is its versatility. You can customize the seasoning to suit your taste. Try using spices like paprika, cumin, or garlic powder, or fresh herbs such as sage and oregano. Marinades or spice blends can also add unique flavors to your turkey.
FAQ 4: How do I store leftover turkey breast?
Answer: Allow any leftover turkey breast to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best quality. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the turkey breast for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
PrintSlow Cooker Turkey Breast
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked to tender perfection. With a simple herb butter rub, this turkey breast is juicy, flavorful, and hassle-free. Perfect for a holiday main dish or an easy family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–6 hours
- Total Time: 5–6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4–5 lb bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 large onion, peeled and cut into thick slices
- Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs (optional, for added flavor)
Gravy:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth (plus any drippings from the slow cooker)
Instructions
- Prepare the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
- Season the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin with your fingers and spread half of the butter mixture under the skin and the remaining butter over the top.
- Arrange in Slow Cooker: Place onion slices in the bottom of the slow cooker, forming a base. Set the seasoned turkey breast on top of the onions.
- Cook the Turkey: Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Start checking the temperature around the 5-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
- Broil for Crispy Skin (optional): Preheat the broiler to high. Transfer the turkey breast to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Make the Gravy: Pour the cooking juices through a strainer into a bowl, discarding solids. In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the turkey drippings and chicken broth. Stir until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the homemade gravy.
Notes
- Optional Flavor Add-Ins: Add slices of lemon or sprigs of fresh rosemary for extra aroma and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.