This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is perfect for a juicy, tender meal that practically cooks itself! Just season the turkey, pop it in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
Honestly, I love how easy this is for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. The leftovers are great for sandwiches too—if there are any left, that is! 🦃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: A 3 to 4-pound boneless turkey breast is ideal for this recipe. If you can’t find boneless, a bone-in breast will work; just adjust the cooking time a bit. Ground turkey or chicken breast could also be used, but cooking times will vary.
Olive Oil: This is great for moisture and flavor. You can swap this with melted butter or avocado oil if you prefer. Both will enhance the savory notes of the dish!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch! If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder, but fresh provides a better flavor. You might even prefer roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder taste.
Dried Herbs: The combination of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage gives great depth. You can use Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence as a substitute, or even some fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is preferred to control saltiness. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth can replace it, but remember, it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Ensure the Turkey is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy turkey lies in proper seasoning and cooking technique. Start by patting the turkey breast dry; this helps the seasoning stick better. Don’t rush—rub the herb mixture thoroughly into every crevice and allow the flavors to absorb.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—aim for 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking!
- Let the turkey rest after cooking; this step allows juices to redistribute, making the meat moist.
- Pour the cooking juices over the sliced turkey for added flavor when serving!
With these tips, your slow cooker turkey breast will be a hit at any meal!
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Turkey: 1 (3 to 4-pound) boneless turkey breast, skin on or skinless
- Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Spices: 1 teaspoon paprika
- Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Dried Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Spice: 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Broth: 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Garnish: Optional fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus 4 to 6 hours of slow cooking. It is a straightforward hands-off process that results in a delicious turkey dinner. The longer cooking time allows the turkey to become incredibly tender and flavorful!
Your Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Herb Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, rosemary, sage, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be your delicious herb seasoning paste!
2. Prepare the Turkey:
Take your turkey breast and pat it dry with paper towels. This is an important step as it helps the seasoning stick better. Then, rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Setup the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker. Carefully pour the chicken broth around the turkey breast (not on top), as this keeps the seasoning intact while adding moisture.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 4 to 6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is super helpful here!
5. Rest the Turkey:
Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. Resting helps keep the juices locked in!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, slice the turkey breast. Optionally, you can garnish it with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. Serve the sliced turkey with the tasty juices poured over the top. Enjoy your tender and flavorful turkey!
This slow cooker turkey breast is truly a delight, and it’s so easy to make! Perfect for a cozy family meal or any special occasion.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey Breast for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen turkey breast, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. Cooking from frozen is not recommended in a slow cooker as it may not cook evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the herb mixture and season the turkey breast a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator overnight, then just place it in the slow cooker the next day when you’re ready to cook!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches, or reheat it gently in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the herbs and spices based on your preferences. Adding a bit of cayenne for heat or using fresh herbs instead of dried can provide different flavor profiles!
