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
Scale
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