Tender Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

Juicy Tender Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe for Family Joy

Succulent and juicy slow cooker turkey breast delivers a mouthwatering meal that effortlessly brings warmth to your dining table.

Home cooks adore this simple yet flavorful preparation method that guarantees perfectly cooked meat every single time.

Seasoned with herbs and spices, the turkey becomes incredibly soft and delectable.

Slow cooking ensures each slice remains moist and packed with rich flavor profiles.

The recipe requires minimal effort but produces maximum satisfaction for anyone craving a delicious protein centerpiece.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques make this dish accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this incredible turkey breast that transforms an ordinary meal into something truly special.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Calories: 300 kcal

Servings: 9

What You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

For Seasonings:
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a warm, mellow depth to enhance the turkey's natural flavor without sharp raw garlic bite.
  • Onion Powder: Provides subtle sweetness and aromatic background notes to the herb butter.
  • Smoked Paprika: Introduces a gentle smoky undertone that brings complexity to the meat.
  • Thyme: Offers earthy, slightly minty herbal notes that complement poultry perfectly.
  • Salt: Crucial for bringing out the turkey's rich flavor and balancing other seasonings.
  • Black Pepper: Delivers a gentle heat and sharp accent to round out the seasoning blend.
For Turkey and Base:
  • Turkey Breast: Lean, tender protein that absorbs herbs wonderfully and creates a beautiful main dish.
  • Onion: Creates a flavorful bed for the turkey, adding moisture and subtle sweetness during cooking.
For Gravy Components:
  • Butter: Provides rich, smooth base for both herb mixture and gravy, adding luxurious texture.
  • Flour: Helps thicken gravy and create a silky, consistent sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth and additional savory liquid to create a perfect gravy consistency.

Tools for a Tender Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

  • Slow Cooker: Essential for tender, juicy turkey breast cooking.
  • Baking Sheet: Needed for optional crispy skin broiling step.
  • Small Bowl: Perfect for mixing herb butter ingredients.
  • Whisk: Helps blend gravy ingredients smoothly.
  • Strainer: Separates solids from cooking juices.
  • Saucepan: Required for making delicious homemade gravy.
  • Paper Towels: Used to pat turkey breast dry.
  • Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning amounts.

How to Cook Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Perfectly

  • Whip Up Herby Goodness

Create a flavor-packed butter blend by mixing softened butter with aromatic spices until smooth and well combined.

  • Massage Turkey with Flavor

Gently pat turkey dry, then lovingly spread the herbed butter underneath the skin and all over the surface for maximum deliciousness.

  • Build a Tasty Foundation

Layer onion slices at the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a flavorful bed for the turkey to rest on.

  • Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and let the slow cooker work its, cooking the turkey until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F. Keep an eye on it after 5 hours to prevent overcooking.

  • Optional Crispy Finish

For extra wow factor, transfer turkey to a baking sheet and give it a quick broil to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

  • Craft Irresistible Gravy

Transform cooking juices into a luscious gravy by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding drippings and broth until wonderfully thickened.

  • Serve and Savor

Allow the turkey to rest briefly, then slice and serve with the rich, homemade gravy. Enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

Tips to Add More Flavor to Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

  • Keep It Juicy and Delicious
  • Always pat turkey completely dry before adding butter to ensure crispy skin and better herb adherence. Pat gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture without damaging the meat.
  • Use a reliable meat thermometer to check internal temperature precisely, preventing dry or undercooked turkey. Check temperature at multiple points for accurate reading.
  • Optional broiling step transforms slow-cooked turkey from soft to beautifully golden and crisp. Watch carefully during broiling to prevent burning.
  • Experiment with different herb combinations like rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning blend to personalize your turkey's taste profile. Fresh herbs can replace dried herbs for more vibrant flavor.
  • Replace flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder when making gravy to create a gluten-free version. For low-carb alternative, skip gravy or use minimal thickening agent.

Serve Sliced Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Sides or Gravy

  • Perfect Party Platter: Slice the turkey breast thinly and arrange on a large wooden board with fresh herbs, cranberry sauce, and pickled vegetables for a stunning centerpiece.
  • Cozy Family Dinner: Pair the turkey with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, and drizzle the homemade gravy over everything for a comforting meal.
  • Sandwich Sensation: Use leftover turkey slices on crusty sourdough bread with a smear of herb butter, crisp lettuce, and a dollop of gravy for an incredible next-day lunch.
  • Meal Prep: Portion the turkey into meal-sized containers with gravy on the side for easy, delicious work lunches throughout the week that will keep you satisfied and save money.

Store Turkey Breast Without Losing Juiciness

  • Keep leftover turkey in airtight containers, refrigerated for up to 4 days. Slice meat before storing to maintain moisture and make reheating easier.
  • Wrap turkey slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before enjoying.
  • Warm turkey slices in microwave with a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness. Use 30-second intervals, checking temperature and moisture between each cycle.
  • Shred cold turkey for salads, sandwiches, and quick quesadillas. Mix with mayo, herbs, and chopped celery for a delightful turkey salad that saves time and reduces food waste.

FAQs

  • How do I know when the turkey breast is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast. This ensures the turkey is safe to eat and remains juicy.

  • Can I use frozen turkey breast in this recipe?

Thaw the turkey breast completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Never put a frozen turkey directly into the slow cooker, as this can create unsafe temperature conditions and uneven cooking.

  • What if I don't have all the specific herbs in the recipe?

You can substitute with dried herbs you have on hand. Use similar flavor profiles like rosemary instead of thyme, or Italian seasoning blend as an alternative to individual herbs.

  • Why are onions placed at the bottom of the slow cooker?

Onions create a flavorful base that prevents the turkey from sticking and adds moisture. They also elevate the meat slightly, allowing better heat circulation and preventing the turkey from sitting in its own juices.

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Spicy Cauliflower Lettuce Wraps With Korean Bbq Recipe

Spicy Cauliflower Lettuce Wraps With Korean Bbq


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Korean bbq roasted cauliflower lettuce wraps blend global flavors with plant-based innovation. Crisp lettuce leaves cradle spicy, caramelized cauliflower, offering a delightful culinary experience you’ll savor with each bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 810 large butter lettuce or romaine leaves
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) soy sauce
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) maple syrup or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 tbsps (30 ml) water
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • ½ cup (120 ml) shredded carrots
  • ½ cup (120 ml) thinly sliced cucumber
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) chopped green onions
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cooked rice or rice noodles

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 425F (220C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper for effortless cleanup.
  2. Floret Formation: Separate cauliflower into uniform pieces, thoroughly coating with olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper to maximize flavor profile.
  3. Roasting Setup: Spread cauliflower across baking sheet in a single layer, allowing ample space between pieces to ensure optimal caramelization and crisp edges.
  4. Culinary Transformation: Roast cauliflower for 25-30 minutes, rotating tray midway to achieve uniform golden-brown coloration and tender interior.
  5. Sauce Crafting: Simultaneously prepare Korean BBQ sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking ingredients to create a smooth, glossy consistency.
  6. Flavor Infusion: Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and develops a rich, concentrated flavor profile.
  7. Coating Technique: Immediately toss hot roasted cauliflower with warm sauce, ensuring complete and even coverage of each floret.
  8. Wrap Assembly: Select crisp lettuce leaves as delicate wrapping vessels for the saucy cauliflower pieces.
  9. Final Presentation: Garnish with julienned carrots, cucumber slivers, chopped green onions, and toasted sesame seeds to add vibrant texture and complementary flavors, serving immediately while warm with optional rice or noodles.

Notes

  • Roast Cauliflower Perfectly: Space florets evenly on baking sheet to prevent steaming and ensure crispy, caramelized edges with maximum flavor development.
  • Sauce Consistency Matters: Whisk Korean BBQ sauce continuously while simmering to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, glossy texture that clings beautifully to cauliflower.
  • Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap regular sauce for gluten-free tamari, use low-sodium soy sauce for heart-healthy version, or create vegan option by checking sauce ingredients.
  • Enhance Texture and Freshness: Choose sturdy lettuce like butter or romaine for wraps that won’t tear, and prep vegetables right before serving to maintain crisp, vibrant quality.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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