Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe for Effortless Meals
Hearty autumn meals find their perfect match in this succulent slow cooker turkey breast that promises tender, juicy results.
Busy home cooks appreciate how effortlessly this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
Weekend gatherings become memorable when you serve a centerpiece protein that practically cooks itself.
The magic happens when simple seasonings meld with natural turkey juices during a long, gentle simmer.
Minimal prep work means more time connecting with loved ones around the table.
Each bite promises rich, comforting flavor that feels like a warm culinary hug.
Let this foolproof method become your new go-to strategy for stress-free, delicious poultry.
Why Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Is So Handy
What Goes Into Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Seasonings and Herbs:Main Protein:Fat and Moisture Base:Supporting Ingredients:Gravy Components:How To Prepare Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Step 1: Whip Up Flavor-Packed Butter Blend
Grab a mixing bowl and create a magical herb-infused butter. Combine softly melted butter with:Stir everything until it transforms into a creamy, aromatic paste that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Step 2: Massage Turkey with Herbal Magic
Gently pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Using your fingertips, carefully separate the skin from the meat. Generously spread half of the herb butter underneath the skin, then lovingly coat the exterior with the remaining mixture.
Step 3: Create a Flavor Foundation
Slice some sweet onions and create a cozy bed in the bottom of your slow cooker. Gently nestle the seasoned turkey breast on top of this aromatic foundation.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover and let the slow cooker work its magic on low heat. Cook for 5-6 hours, keeping a watchful eye and checking the internal temperature. You’re aiming for that perfect 165 degrees Fahrenheit sweet spot.
Step 5: Crisp Up the Skin (Optional Excitement)
Want that gorgeous golden exterior? Transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and blast under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to achieve that irresistible crispy skin without burning.
Step 6: Craft Liquid Gold Gravy
Transform those delicious cooking juices into a velvety gravy:Step 7: Serve with Celebration
Allow the turkey to rest for 10 minutes – this helps lock in those precious juices. Slice with confidence and drizzle with the homemade gravy. Prepare for a round of applause from your dinner guests!
Smart Tips For Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
How To Store Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
What To Serve With Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
New Twists For Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast FAQ
Slow cookers are perfect for keeping turkey breast moist and tender. The low, consistent heat helps break down tough muscle fibers, ensuring a juicy result without drying out the meat.
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can provide an even more vibrant flavor. Just remember to use about three times more fresh herbs compared to dried herbs to maintain the same intensity of taste.
A meat thermometer is crucial for food safety. Without one, you risk undercooking or overcooking the turkey. If you don’t have one, consider purchasing an instant-read thermometer to ensure your turkey reaches the safe internal temperature of 165F (74C).
The herb butter is key to adding flavor and keeping the turkey breast moist. It helps infuse the meat with delicious seasonings and prevents the turkey from becoming dry during the long, slow cooking process. Skipping it would result in a less flavorful dish.
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Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 5-6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
Succulent slow cooker turkey breast delivers mouthwatering holiday comfort without kitchen stress. Herb-infused and perfectly tender, this simple recipe guarantees a juicy centerpiece you’ll savor with family and friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4.5 lb (2 kg) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 1 large onion, peeled and cut into thick slices
Seasoning Blend:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
Gravy Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Craft a luxurious herb-infused butter blend by whisking together softened butter with aromatic garlic powder, onion powder, smoky paprika, fragrant thyme, and seasoning until a smooth, integrated paste forms.
- Meticulously blot the turkey breast with paper towels to ensure dry surface. Delicately separate skin from meat and massage half of the herbed butter underneath, then lavishly coat the exterior with remaining butter mixture.
- Create a flavorful foundation by layering thinly sliced onions across the slow cooker base. Gently nestle the seasoned turkey breast atop the onion bed, ensuring stable positioning.
- Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the turkey to gently roast on low temperature for approximately 5-6 hours. Monitor internal temperature periodically, aiming for a precise 165°F (74°C) to guarantee succulent, perfectly cooked meat.
- For those desiring enhanced visual appeal, carefully transfer the cooked turkey to a baking sheet. Activate the broiler and briefly expose the breast, creating a golden, crisp exterior that adds textural complexity.
- Transform cooking liquids into a velvety gravy by straining drippings and discarding solids. In a saucepan, melt butter and incorporate flour, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in reserved drippings and chicken broth, stirring consistently until the sauce reaches a luxurious, thickened consistency.
- Allow the turkey to rest momentarily, permitting juices to redistribute. Slice carefully and present alongside the richly flavored homemade gravy, creating an elegant dining experience.
Notes
- Moisture Mastery: Use a digital meat thermometer to precisely track internal temperature, preventing dry meat and ensuring juicy, tender results every time.
- Skin Success: Pat turkey completely dry before adding butter to achieve maximum crispiness during optional broiling step, which creates a beautiful golden exterior.
- Low and Slow Strategy: Cooking on low setting allows gentle, even heat distribution, breaking down connective tissues and developing rich, deep flavors throughout the turkey breast.
- Dietary Flexibility: Swap regular butter with dairy-free alternatives like olive oil or vegan butter for lactose-intolerant or plant-based dietary needs, maintaining similar moisture and flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Emily Morgan
Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist
Expertise
Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.
Education
New York University
Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.
Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.
Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.