Crockpot Turkey Breast is a delightful and healthy dish that allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of turkey, infused with aromatic herbs and citrus zest, all cooked to perfection. Utilizing a slow cooker makes this recipe not only easy to prepare but also ideal for busy days when you want a hearty meal without the fuss. You simply set it and forget it, allowing the turkey to absorb all the delicious flavors as it cooks gently throughout the day.
Why We Love This Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe
This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe shines for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly convenient. You can throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it to cook, and go about your day. Second, the result is a moist and tender turkey that is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the blend of herbs and the zest of orange. Plus, you get to enjoy the added bonus of homemade gravy, made from the drippings. This means you’ll have a mouthwatering, fuss-free meal that pleases everyone around the table.
Ingredients about Crockpot Turkey Breast
- 4 lb bone-in turkey breast (boneless will work, but cooks more quickly)
- 1 large onion (sliced thick)
- 4 T unsalted butter (melted)
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ T fresh sage (chopped)
- ½ T fresh thyme (chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (freshly minced)
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ T fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (you can use fresh but harder to find)
- 2-3 tsp salt (adjust as desired)
- 2 c drippings from slow cooker (add broth if needed)
- ¼ c butter
- ¼ c flour
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast Directions
Creating your Crockpot Turkey Breast is straightforward and can be broken down into clear steps.
- Preparation of Ingredients: Start by seasoning your turkey breast. Make sure it is properly thawed if it was frozen. Mix together the melted butter, orange zest, sage, thyme, minced garlic, pepper, rosemary, oregano, and salt in a bowl. This mixture will act as a rub for your turkey.
- Add Onions: Slice your large onion into thick pieces and layer them evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker. The onion will provide a flavorful base for the turkey and also help keep it moist while cooking.
- Rub the Turkey: Take the mixture you created and rub it generously over the turkey breast. Ensure that you cover all surfaces to maximize flavor infusion. Place the turkey breast on top of the onion in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cooking: Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. You’ll want to choose the low setting for about 6-8 hours or the high setting for about 3-4 hours. The key here is to cook the turkey low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the meat turns out juicy.
- Check for Doneness: When cooked, the internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
- Crisping the Skin: Though you can enjoy the turkey straight from the slow cooker, many people love a crispy skin. To achieve this, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and place it in a preheated oven set to broil for about 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Making the Gravy: As your turkey rests, it’s time to make the gravy. Begin by transferring the drippings from the slow cooker into a saucepan. If you don’t have enough drippings, feel free to add a bit of broth to reach about 2 cups. Heat this on medium and whisk in the flour combined with a bit of butter until it thickens. Season it with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast
Serving your Crockpot Turkey Breast is a pivotal part of the meal experience. Consider slicing the turkey into thick, generous pieces for a beautiful presentation on your platter. You can arrange the turkey on a serving dish and spoon the homemade gravy over the top.
Accompany your turkey with your choice of sides. Traditional pairings include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. If you’re looking to savor every bite, consider adding cranberry sauce or a citrus salad to complement the turkey’s flavors. Not only do these options enhance your plate, but they also provide a balance to the richness of the turkey.
Don’t forget about garnishing! A sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme over the turkey can elevate its presentation. It adds that pop of color and a finishing touch that will impress your guests.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Turkey Breast
- Choose the Right Turkey: For best results, opt for a bone-in turkey breast. The bone adds flavor and moisture, ensuring a juicy outcome. However, if you choose boneless, adjust your cooking time accordingly.
- Seasoning Matters: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Go generously with the herb rub, and consider letting the seasoned turkey sit for a few hours before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Every slow cooker is different. The sizes and wattages can affect cooking time. Always check the internal temperature for safety and perfect doneness.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the turkey to rest for at least 15-20 minutes after cooking. This step is vital as it allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a tender turkey.
- Use the Right Tools: A reliable meat thermometer is essential for ensuring your turkey is perfectly cooked. Additionally, ensure you use a sturdy, sharp slicing knife for clean cuts.
How to Store Crockpot Turkey Breast
To store any leftover Crockpot Turkey Breast, first, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, you’ll want to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Be sure to separate any gravy into its own container as well.
This turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the turkey. When properly wrapped, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variation of Crockpot Turkey Breast
While the classic recipe is certainly delicious, there are several ways to mix it up!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs according to your preference. For instance, you can add parsley or even basil for a twist.
- Citrus Twist: Want to enhance the citrus flavor? Try adding lemon zest along with the orange or even substituting the orange with another citrus, like grapefruit.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate some red pepper flakes into the herb mixture. This will add a lovely kick to your dish.
- Vegetable Add-ins: You can also throw in chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes into the slow cooker to create a one-pot meal. These vegetables will absorb the flavors and munch beautifully with your turkey.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook a Crockpot Turkey Breast?
The best way to cook a Crockpot Turkey Breast is to rub it with herbs and seasoning, layer it on top of onion slices, and let it cook slowly in the crockpot. The low setting for 6-8 hours yields the juiciest results.
How do I keep the turkey breast moist in the slow cooker?
Ensuring you use a bone-in turkey breast, along with a good rub of butter and herbs, will help keep it moist while cooking. Additionally, the slow cooker retains moisture well, especially when covered.
Can I use a boneless turkey breast?
Yes, a boneless turkey breast can be used, but remember that it cooks more quickly. Adjust your cooking time accordingly, as it will be done in about 3-4 hours on high.
How do I make gravy from the drippings?
To make gravy, transfer the drippings from the slow cooker to a saucepan. Whisk in flour and melted butter until thickened, then season the gravy with salt and pepper to your liking.
What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Turkey Breast?
Crockpot Turkey Breast pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Consider adding cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast to the savory turkey.
Crockpot Turkey Breast
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 4 lb bone-in turkey breast Boneless will work but cooks more quickly.
- 1 large onion (sliced thick) Provides a flavorful base.
- 4 T unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 zest orange
- ½ T fresh sage (chopped)
- ½ T fresh thyme (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (freshly minced)
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ T fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 tsp dried oregano Fresh can be used but harder to find.
- 2-3 tsp salt Adjust as desired.
Gravy Ingredients
- 2 c drippings from slow cooker Add broth if needed.
- ¼ c butter
- ¼ c flour
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the turkey breast, ensuring it is thawed if previously frozen.
- Mix melted butter, orange zest, sage, thyme, garlic, pepper, rosemary, oregano, and salt in a bowl to create a rub.
- Slice the onion into thick pieces and layer them at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Rub the mixture generously over the turkey breast, covering all surfaces.
- Place the turkey breast on top of the onion in the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Final Touches
- If desired, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and broil in a preheated oven for 5-10 minutes for crispy skin.
- Transfer drippings from the slow cooker to a saucepan, adding broth to reach about 2 cups if needed.
- Whisk in flour and butter until thickened, then season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
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