Slow Cooker Turkey Breast brings convenience and flavor to your kitchen with minimal effort. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or a cozy weeknight meal. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy tender, juicy turkey that’s packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe quickly becomes a favorite for many reasons. First, it’s straightforward and requires minimal preparation. You can season the turkey, set it in the slow cooker, and forget about it while you go about your day. The result is mouth-watering, succulent turkey that is always a hit. It’s perfect for anyone who is busy but still wants to enjoy a hearty and nutritious meal. Whether you are looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself and your family to delicious food, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
- 1 bone-in or boneless turkey breast (3–6 pounds)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful dish that doesn’t require exotic items or complicated preparation. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the turkey’s natural taste to shine through, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Directions
- Start by seasoning your turkey breast generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the turkey. Make sure to cover all sides for even seasoning. If using garlic, you can rub some minced garlic under the skin of the turkey for added flavor.
- If your slow cooker has an option to sauté, heat the olive oil in the slow cooker on this setting. Once it’s hot, carefully place the turkey breast in the pot. Brown the turkey on all sides—this adds a beautiful color and creates a rich depth of flavor.
- When the turkey is nicely browned, pour the chicken broth around it in the slow cooker. This will keep the turkey moist and infuse additional flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Sprinkle the fresh herbs over the turkey. Rosemary and thyme work beautifully together, giving your dish a fragrant aroma. If you choose to use garlic, add it at this point, either whole or minced.
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 6-8 hours. The low and slow cooking method ensures the turkey remains juicy and tender. For those pressed for time, you can also cook it on high for about 4 hours, but the results may vary.
- When your cooking time is up, check that the internal temperature of the turkey has reached 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. Once it’s fully cooked, remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and delicious.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Serving Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is as delightful as making it. Begin by slicing the turkey into thick, even pieces. Arrange them on a platter, perhaps with a garnish of fresh herbs to elevate the presentation. You can serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce for a beautiful and hearty meal.
Don’t forget about the delicious broth left in the slow cooker! You can use it as a flavorful gravy by thickening it with a little cornstarch/water mixture or simply spoon it over the turkey for added moisture and taste. This meal is great for leftovers, making it versatile and satisfying even the next day.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
- Choose the right size turkey breast. A 3-6 pound breast fits best in most slow cookers. Make sure it can lay flat in the pot to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t rush the process. The long cooking time on low heat allows the turkey to become tender and juicy. Ensure you resist the temptation to lift the lid frequently, as this lets out heat and can increase cooking time.
- Incorporate your favorite spices. While rosemary and thyme are classics, you can experiment with other seasonings like sage or paprika to personalize the flavor to your liking.
- For a crispy skin finish, consider broiling the turkey breasts for a few minutes in the oven after cooking. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Allow the turkey to rest before slicing. This final step is essential for achieving moist, flavorful pieces. Patience here pays off!
How to Store Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
If there are leftovers from your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, you can store them easily. Let the turkey cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Slice the turkey and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container before freezing it for up to 6 months. Simply thaw the turkey in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy it again.
Variation of Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to put a fun twist on your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Herb-Butter Turkey: Mix softened butter with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Rub this mixture under the skin of the turkey before cooking for an extra rich flavor and moist texture.
- Citrus Turkey: Add slices of lemon or orange to the slow cooker along with your broth and herbs. This adds a refreshing citrusy kick to your turkey.
- Sweet and Savory: Include a tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar in the broth for a sweet contrast that beautifully complements the savory turkey.
- Spicy Turkey: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to bring heat to your dish.
- Stuffed Turkey Breast: For a holiday feel, consider stuffing the turkey breast with a mixture of bread crumbs, vegetables, and seasonings before placing it in the slow cooker.
FAQs Can I use a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
It is recommended to thaw the turkey breast completely before cooking. Cooking frozen meat can lead to uneven cooking and potentially unsafe food temperatures.
How long does it take to cook a turkey breast in a slow cooker?
Typically, a turkey breast will take 6 to 8 hours on low heat or about 4 hours on high heat to reach the proper internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I use turkey breasts that are boneless?
Yes, boneless turkey breasts work well in this recipe, though they may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Is it necessary to brown the turkey first?
While not mandatory, browning the turkey adds flavor and a lovely color to the dish. It is an optional step depending on your preference.
What can I do with the leftovers?
Leftover turkey can be used in various dishes, including sandwiches, salads, or casseroles, providing a wonderful way to reduce waste while creating enjoyable meals.
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Turkey Breast meal, and remember to savor every moment spent with family and friends at the table!
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 piece bone-in or boneless turkey breast (3-6 pounds) Choose the right size turkey breast that fits your slow cooker.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For browning the turkey.
- 1 cup chicken broth Keeping the turkey moist.
- to taste salt and pepper Generously season the turkey.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced Optional, for flavor enhancement.
- to taste Fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme For added aroma and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the turkey breast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Optionally, rub minced garlic under the skin of the turkey for additional flavor.
Cooking
- If your slow cooker has a sauté option, heat the olive oil inside it then brown the turkey on all sides.
- Pour the chicken broth around the turkey in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs over the turkey and add the minced garlic if using.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours.
- Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C), then remove the turkey and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Serving
- Slice the turkey into thick pieces and arrange on a platter.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve alongside your favorite sides.
- Use the broth left in the slow cooker as a flavorful gravy or spoon it over the turkey.
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