Experience the ultimate in convenience and flavor with this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe. Perfectly cooked low and slow, it promises a Thanksgiving-worthy turkey that’s unbelievably juicy, tender, and bursting with herby goodness, ideal for holiday gatherings or a memorable weeknight meal.
Effortless Elegance: Your Guide to a Perfect Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Whether you’re planning a smaller holiday dinner and prefer to skip the complexities of roasting a whole turkey, or simply craving a savory and comforting meal for your family on a regular night, this Crock Pot Turkey Breast recipe is your culinary answer. Forget dry, bland turkey; our proven method ensures a consistently moist, tender, and flavorful centerpiece every single time. The carefully selected blend of aromatic herbs and spices creates a rich, irresistible crust and deeply infused meat that will captivate your taste buds. And the best part? You can easily whip up a luscious, homemade gravy from the flavorful pan drippings, elevating this dish to gourmet status with minimal effort.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Turkey Breast? Unveiling the Benefits
Opting for a slow cooker turkey breast offers a multitude of advantages, making it a favorite for busy cooks and flavor enthusiasts alike:
- Unmatched Moisture and Tenderness: The gentle, consistent heat of a slow cooker creates a moist environment where the turkey breast cooks slowly in its own juices. This technique virtually eliminates the risk of dry turkey, resulting in meat that is incredibly tender and succulent, practically melting in your mouth.
- Hands-Off Convenience: Free up precious oven space, especially during holiday preparations. With minimal prep, you can set your slow cooker and let it work its magic, giving you more time for other dishes or to simply relax.
- Deep Flavor Infusion: Our special herb butter rub penetrates the turkey breast thoroughly as it cooks, infusing every fiber with layers of savory, aromatic goodness. The flavors meld beautifully over hours, creating a truly memorable dish.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: This recipe is perfect for smaller families who don’t need a whole bird, ideal for a comforting weeknight meal, or as a supplementary turkey option for larger holiday gatherings. Its flexibility makes it a kitchen staple.
- Effortless Gravy Creation: The slow cooking process yields an abundance of rich, flavorful drippings. These drippings are the secret ingredient for crafting a quick, easy, and undeniably delicious homemade gravy that perfectly complements the turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Turkey Breast in a Slow Cooker
For optimal results, particularly concerning fit and even cooking within most standard slow cookers, a 3-4 pound boneless turkey breast is recommended. This size ensures that the turkey cooks thoroughly and remains tender within the suggested cooking times. If you choose a bone-in turkey breast, ensure it physically fits your slow cooker, and be prepared to potentially extend the cooking time slightly, as bones can slow down heat penetration.
An oval-shaped slow cooker with a capacity of 6 to 8 quarts is ideal for this recipe. The oval shape is crucial as it accommodates the elongated shape of a turkey breast more effectively than a round slow cooker. Using a smaller unit might prevent the turkey breast from fitting properly, leading to uneven cooking or requiring you to cut the turkey.
Yes, absolutely! Fresh herbs can impart a wonderfully bright and robust flavor to your turkey. When substituting fresh herbs for dried ones, a good general rule is to double the amount. For example, if the recipe calls for ½ teaspoon of dried rosemary, use 1 teaspoon of fresh, finely chopped rosemary. This is because dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor than their fresh counterparts.
This versatile slow cooker turkey breast pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides, making it suitable for both holiday feasts and everyday meals. We suggest classic pairings such as creamy mashed potatoes, glistening maple-glazed carrots, vibrant Italian green beans, a crisp garden salad, a comforting green bean casserole, rich sweet potato casserole, or traditional southern cornbread dressing. Feel free to explore your family’s favorites – the turkey’s mild yet flavorful profile is highly adaptable!
For the most tender and juicy results, cooking on the LOW setting for 5-6 hours is recommended. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on HIGH for 2-3 hours, though the “low and slow” method generally yields a superior texture. Crucially, regardless of the setting, the turkey breast is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to verify doneness. A little extra cooking time on low usually just makes the meat even more tender without drying it out.
This recipe, prepared with a 3-4 pound turkey breast, will generously serve 4-6 people. The exact number of servings can vary based on individual appetite and how thinly you slice the meat. It can often stretch further, especially when accompanied by several hearty side dishes. For our family, it typically provides four ample servings, often with some delicious leftovers.
While the slow cooker method is unique for its tenderness, you can certainly cook turkey in an air fryer for a different, often quicker, result. For specific guidance on air frying turkey, we recommend consulting our dedicated recipe for Air Fryer Turkey Breast Tenderloin, which outlines the best practices for that appliance.
To store leftovers, place the cooked turkey breast in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag. To defrost, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight until fully thawed. To reheat without drying out:
- Saucepan Reheat (Highly Recommended!): Cut leftover slices into bite-sized pieces. Add them to a small saucepan with any remaining gravy and a splash of chicken stock. Heat gently over low heat until simmering and warmed through.
- Oven Reheat: Place turkey slices in a foil packet with a splash of water or chicken stock. Seal the foil tightly and bake in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) until just warmed through.
These methods help maintain the turkey’s succulent texture and rich flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Your Succulent Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Crafting this flavorful turkey breast requires a thoughtfully chosen blend of simple yet powerful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is important:
- Onions: Sliced medium onions are more than just a flavor enhancer. They create a natural “trivet” at the bottom of the slow cooker, gently lifting the turkey to prevent it from stewing and allowing its savory juices to collect. They also infuse the turkey with a subtle sweetness and form the foundational flavor for an exceptional gravy.
- Boneless Turkey Breast: This recipe is specifically designed for a 3-4 pound boneless turkey breast, often labeled as a “turkey breast roast” in stores. This cut offers consistent texture and ease of carving. While a bone-in breast can be used, ensure it fits your slow cooker and note that cooking times may vary due to the bone.
- Unsalted Butter, Softened: The heart of our aromatic herb rub. Using unsalted butter allows you to precisely control the overall sodium content of your dish. If only salted butter is available, simply reduce the amount of added kosher salt in the recipe by about ¼ teaspoon per stick of butter used.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These fundamental seasonings deliver a deep, savory, umami base that beautifully complements poultry. They are crucial for building a rich flavor profile throughout the turkey.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the turkey. Kosher salt provides a clean, briny flavor and a coarser texture, while freshly ground black pepper adds a warm, pungent kick, balancing all the other flavors.
- Dried Parsley Flakes: Primarily adds a vibrant touch of color to the herb rub, making the turkey visually appealing. It also contributes a very mild, fresh herbaceous note.
- Dried Rosemary, Ground Sage, & Dried Thyme: This classic trio forms the quintessential poultry seasoning blend. We specify them individually to allow for precise flavor balancing. However, for convenience, you could substitute an equal amount of good quality store-bought poultry seasoning if desired.
- Unsalted Chicken Stock (Optional, for Gravy): An important backup! Some turkey breasts release abundant drippings, making extra stock unnecessary for gravy. However, if your drippings don’t reach the required 2 cups, unsalted chicken stock is perfect for topping it up, ensuring your gravy is rich and plentiful without being overly salty.
- All-Purpose Flour: This acts as the thickening agent for our rich gravy, forming a smooth roux when combined with butter, which ensures a silky, lump-free sauce.
How to Make a Crock Pot Turkey Breast: Step-by-Step Perfection
Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful turkey breast with minimal effort, culminating in a delicious meal and homemade gravy.
Step 1: Prepare the Onion Base
Begin by peeling your medium onions and cutting them into substantial wedges. Carefully arrange these onion wedges in a single layer across the bottom of your 6-8 quart slow cooker. These onions will serve as a flavorful bed, lifting the turkey slightly and allowing for excellent juice collection, which is vital for your gravy.
Step 2: Dry the Turkey Breast
Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the thawed boneless turkey breast dry on all sides. This critical step is essential for allowing the herb butter rub to adhere properly and ensures a more concentrated flavor on the surface of the turkey, and better browning if you choose to broil it later.
Step 3: Prepare the Herb Butter Rub
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, dried parsley flakes, dried rosemary, ground sage, and dried thyme. Mix all these ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated and form a fragrant, spreadable paste. This carefully crafted rub is the secret to the turkey’s signature flavor.
Step 4: Apply the Herb Butter Rub
Generously rub the entire surface of the turkey breast with the prepared herb butter mixture. Ensure an even coating, reaching into any crevices or under loose skin (if applicable). This layer of butter and herbs will lock in moisture and infuse every bite with savory goodness, creating a rich flavor profile.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Carefully place the herb-rubbed turkey breast into the slow cooker, ensuring it rests skin side up on top of the onion bed. Secure the lid tightly. Cook on the LOW setting for 5-6 hours. Alternatively, for a faster cook, set it to HIGH for 2-3 hours. Remember, low and slow cooking yields the most tender results.
Step 6: Verify Doneness and Rest the Turkey
The turkey breast is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Always confirm this by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. Don’t be concerned if it cooks slightly longer than anticipated; the slow cooker’s moist environment helps prevent drying. For an optional golden, appealing skin, you can transfer the cooked turkey to an oven-safe dish and broil for a few minutes (watch it very closely!). Before slicing, let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, guaranteeing every slice is incredibly moist and tender.
Step 7: Collect Drippings for Gravy
After removing the cooked turkey breast from the slow cooker, carefully pour all the accumulated drippings (excluding the onion wedges) into a 2-cup liquid measuring cup. If you prefer a lighter gravy, you can use a fat separator or simply spoon off any excess fat from the surface of the drippings.
Step 8: Adjust Drippings Volume
If the turkey drippings alone do not yield a full 2 cups, simply add enough unsalted chicken stock to the measuring cup until you reach the 2-cup mark. This ensures you have the precise volume of flavorful liquid required to create a rich and perfectly proportioned gravy.
Step 9: Prepare the Roux for Gravy
In a small skillet or saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Continue to cook this mixture, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. This process creates a “roux,” which is fundamental for thickening the gravy and eliminating any raw flour taste.
Step 10: Whisk in Liquid and Thicken Gravy
Slowly and gradually stream the prepared turkey drippings/chicken stock mixture into the roux while continuously whisking. This constant whisking technique is key to preventing any lumps from forming, ensuring a perfectly smooth gravy. Season the gravy with ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, or adjust to your personal taste preferences. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy begins to simmer and thickens to your desired consistency. Always taste and adjust seasonings one final time if necessary before serving.
Serve the piping hot, homemade gravy immediately alongside your succulent slow cooker turkey breast. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Expert Tips for the Most Succulent Turkey Breast
Achieve consistently perfect results with these handy tips:
- Ensure Proper Fit: Make sure your turkey breast fits comfortably in your slow cooker without being overly crammed. Good air circulation promotes even cooking.
- Trust Your Thermometer: A reliable meat thermometer is your best friend. Cooking times are estimates; internal temperature is the true indicator of doneness (165°F / 74°C).
- Resting is Non-Negotiable: Allow the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a supremely moist and tender final product.
- For Crispy Skin (Optional Broil): While slow cooking doesn’t typically yield crispy skin, you can achieve it! After cooking, transfer the turkey to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2-5 minutes, watching very closely to prevent burning.
- Don’t Waste Drippings: Those flavorful pan drippings are liquid gold! They form the foundation of an incredibly rich and savory homemade gravy.
Creative Ideas for Leftover Slow Cooker Turkey
If you’re fortunate enough to have any leftover slow cooker turkey breast, here are some delicious ways to repurpose it, ensuring no delicious morsel goes to waste:
- Gourmet Sandwiches & Wraps: Create epic sandwiches by layering cold turkey slices with cranberry sauce, stuffing, a touch of mayonnaise, and fresh greens on your favorite bread or wrap.
- Hearty Soups & Stews: Shred or cube the leftover turkey and add it to a comforting turkey noodle soup, a robust chili, or a creamy turkey stew. It adds depth and protein effortlessly.
- Quick Turkey Salad: Chop the turkey and mix it with finely diced celery, red onion, a spoonful of mayo or Greek yogurt, and your preferred seasonings for a light and flavorful lunch.
- Comforting Casseroles: Incorporate the turkey into classic comfort dishes like a creamy turkey tetrazzini, a rich turkey pot pie casserole, or a savory shepherd’s pie for a wholesome family dinner.
- Breakfast Hash: Dice the turkey and add it to a hearty breakfast hash with crispy potatoes, sautéed peppers, and onions. Top it with a perfectly fried egg for a satisfying morning meal.
Craving More Delicious Recipes? Explore These Favorites!
If you enjoyed preparing and tasting this slow cooker turkey breast, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:
- The Best Turkey Gravy Recipe: Master the art of rich, savory homemade gravy.
- Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloins: A delicious and quicker alternative for tender turkey cuts.
- Turkey Pot Pie Casserole: The ultimate comfort food, perfect for utilizing any leftover turkey.
- Brown Sugar Glazed Ham: Another fantastic main course, ideal for holidays or special gatherings.
- Crock Pot Mississippi Turkey Breast: A different, tangy, and flavorful slow cooker turkey experience.
- How To Fry A Turkey: (Step-by-Step Photos): For the adventurous home cook seeking ultimate crispy skin and juicy meat.
- Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Bundles: Creative and delicious ways to reinvent your holiday leftovers.
- Sheet Pan Turkey Dinner: A convenient, all-in-one meal solution for easy weeknights.
- Thanksgiving Recipe Roundup: A comprehensive collection of recipes for your festive holiday spread.
Crock Pot Turkey Breast (with Video Guide)
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10 minutes
6 hours
6 hours 10 minutes
6
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 2 medium onions, peeled and cut into wedges
- 3-4 pound boneless turkey breast, thawed
- 4 Tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon ground sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For the Gravy:
- Unsalted chicken stock (only if needed to make 2 cups drippings)
- 4 Tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
- 4 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Peel the 2 medium onions and cut them into wedges. Place them evenly into the bottom of a 6-8 quart slow cooker.
- Pat the 3-4 pound boneless turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres well.
- In a small bowl, stir together the 4 Tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter (softened), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes, ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, ½ teaspoon ground sage, and ½ teaspoon dried thyme until well combined into a paste.
- Generously rub this herb butter mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring an even coating.
- Place the turkey, skin side up, into the slow cooker on top of the onions. Cover and cook for 5-6 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH.
- The turkey is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast. Using a meat thermometer is essential for accuracy. If it cooks longer than the recommended time, it’s generally fine; slow cooking enhances tenderness, though prolonged cooking might make it very fall-apart tender.
- Optional Step for Golden Skin: For a beautiful golden-brown top, carefully transfer the cooked turkey breast onto an oven-safe dish or sheet tray. Broil for a few minutes, watching constantly to prevent burning. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing to serve; this allows the juices to redistribute for maximum moisture.
- To Make the Gravy: Pour the drippings (ensure no onions are included) from the slow cooker into a 2-cup measuring cup. If desired, skim off any fat from the surface.
- If you have less than 2 cups of drippings, add enough unsalted chicken stock to reach the 2-cup mark.
- In a small skillet or saucepan, melt 4 Tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 Tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Slowly stream the drippings/stock mixture into the roux while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Season with ¼ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste).
- Continue to cook, stirring, until the gravy simmers and thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve the homemade gravy immediately with your freshly sliced slow cooker turkey breast.
Video Guide
Recipe Notes & Expert Tips
- Turkey Breast Type: We recommend a 3-4 pound boneless turkey breast for this recipe, sometimes sold as a “turkey breast roast.” Ensure it is thawed completely before beginning.
- Slow Cooker Size: A 6-8 quart oval slow cooker is essential for ensuring the turkey breast fits and cooks evenly.
- Fresh Herb Substitution: If using fresh herbs, double the quantity compared to dried herbs in the recipe for a similar flavor intensity.
- Freezing Leftovers: Cooked turkey breast freezes wonderfully. Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Customizable Sides: This turkey is incredibly versatile. Pair it with any of your favorite holiday or everyday side dishes for a complete meal.
- Crispy Skin: For a golden, crispy skin (which slow cooking typically doesn’t achieve), briefly broil the cooked turkey for 2-5 minutes in the oven, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Main Course
American
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
Per Serving:
- Calories: 705kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 115g
- Fat: 24g
- Sodium: 1385mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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