This slow cooker turkey breast is juicy and tender, perfect for a family meal. You just season it, pop it in the cooker, and let it work its magic!
Honestly, it’s so easy that I sometimes wonder if I should cook turkey more often! Just set it and forget it, and you’ll be rewarded with a tasty feast.
It’s a hit every time, especially served with mashed potatoes or veggies. I love how it makes my kitchen smell amazing while cooking—just like Thanksgiving! 🦃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: A boneless skin-on turkey breast gives the best flavor and moisture. If you can’t find it, you could use skinless but remember, it might dry out more easily.
Olive Oil: This keeps the turkey juicy and helps the spices stick. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use cooking spray or melted butter instead.
Herbs and Spices: Garlic and onion powders add depth. If you’re out of dried thyme or rosemary, try using Italian seasoning or a bit of sage instead for a similar taste.
Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and flavor. If you need a low-sodium option, look for low-sodium chicken broth, or use vegetable broth for a different twist.
How Do You Ensure Your Turkey Stays Juicy?
The secret to juicy turkey lies in proper seasoning and cooking time. Start by patting the turkey dry to help the skin get crispy. Then, rub it with olive oil for moisture and flavor. The mix of herbs and spices adds taste, so don’t skip this step!
- Place the turkey in the slow cooker, and pour the broth around it, not over it. This retains the seasoning.
- Cooking on low for 4-5 hours is best to keep it juicy. If you’re in a pinch, high heat works too, just keep an eye on the temperature.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes after cooking! This helps the juices redistribute, so every slice is moist.
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds boneless skin-on turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation, plus 4 to 5 hours of cooking on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. After cooking, make sure to let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. So, total time from start to enjoying your meal is around 4 hours and 20 minutes to 5 hours and 10 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey:
Begin by patting the turkey breast dry using paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy and keeps the meat moist.
2. Mix Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and paprika. Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Season the Turkey:
Rub the olive oil all over the turkey breast. Then, take the spice mix and coat the turkey evenly. Make sure to cover all sides for the best flavor!
4. Cook in Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the turkey—not over it—to keep the spices in place and maintain moisture. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
5. Cooking Time:
Set the slow cooker to low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check that the turkey has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest the Turkey:
Once done, carefully remove the turkey from the cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat for extra tenderness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the turkey breast and garnish with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs. Spoon some of the slow cooker juices over the slices for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious, tender slow-cooked turkey!
Can I Use a Frozen Turkey Breast?
It’s best to start with a thawed turkey breast for even cooking. If using a frozen turkey breast, make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge for 1-2 days prior or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for faster thawing.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! To make it in an Instant Pot, follow the same seasoning steps, then add a cup of chicken broth to the pot. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release for the remaining pressure.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to slice it and store it in portions for easy reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Yes! Feel free to add hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions around the turkey. Just cut them into even sizes and add them alongside the turkey to allow them to cook through in the broth.
