There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of a slow-cooked turkey breast wafting through the house, like a warm hug from Grandma on a chilly day. Imagine succulent, tender slices of turkey, each bite bursting with flavor and paired perfectly with your favorite sides. The best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. With the magic of a slow cooker, you can enjoy this delightful dish while binge-watching your favorite series—no judgment here!
I still remember the first time I made Slow Cooker Turkey Breast. I had invited some friends over for dinner, and my culinary skills were still in their infancy. Armed with nothing but enthusiasm and a slightly questionable recipe from a dusty old cookbook, I threw everything into the slow cooker. To my surprise (and sheer delight), it transformed into a feast fit for kings! Perfect for Thanksgiving or just because it’s Tuesday, this dish has become my go-to for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can set it and forget it while enjoying your day.
- The flavor profile is rich and savory; it’s a dish that will impress everyone at the table.
- Visually appealing, this turkey breast is golden brown and inviting, sure to catch anyone’s eye.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or turn into sandwiches for lunch the next day.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Turkey Breast: Look for a six to eight-pound turkey breast for optimal tenderness; boneless allows for easy slicing.
- Chicken Broth: A good quality broth enhances flavor; consider low sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
- Onion Powder: This adds depth without overwhelming flavors; adjust depending on your taste preference.
- Garlic Powder: For that aromatic kick; fresh garlic works too if you prefer a more intense flavor.
- Dried Thyme: Adds an herby essence that complements the turkey beautifully.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper is best; it brings out all the flavors in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by spraying your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Season That Turkey
Gently pat your turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps in achieving that golden-brown skin we all love! Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and pepper generously over both sides of the turkey.
Step 3: Add Liquids
Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. This keeps the turkey moist while cooking and adds fantastic flavor as it cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook It
Carefully place your seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker on top of the broth. Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it work its magic for about six to eight hours. If you’re in a rush (who isn’t?), you can set it on high for about four hours.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
After cooking time is up, use a meat thermometer to check if it’s reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t yet reached that glorious number, give it another half hour in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once done, remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for about ten minutes before slicing. This juicy bird deserves some time to relax before being devoured! Transfer slices onto plates alongside your favorite sides—mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce are highly recommended!
Now you’ve got yourself a Slow Cooker Turkey Breast that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make! Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just another Tuesday night dinner, enjoy this flavorful meal effortlessly prepared right in your kitchen!
You Must Know
- This delicious slow cooker turkey breast recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
- With tender, juicy meat and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
- Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) make for amazing sandwiches!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve that perfect slow cooker turkey breast, start by seasoning your turkey well. Sear it in a pan for flavor, then nestle it into the slow cooker with broth and herbs. Set your cooker to low, and walk away while it does its magic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your slow cooker turkey breast! Swap out the herbs based on your preferences or add a splash of apple cider for sweetness. You can also toss in vegetables like carrots and potatoes for an all-in-one meal.
Storing & Reheating
For storing, keep any leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, slice it and warm gently in a skillet or microwave with a little broth to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always allow your turkey to rest after cooking; this ensures the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
- Don’t skip the searing step, as it adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; aim for 165°F to avoid dryness.
Sometimes I whip up this slow cooker turkey breast when I want to impress my friends at game night. The aroma fills the house, and they can’t believe how easy it is!
FAQs :
What is the best way to season Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
Seasoning your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is essential for enhancing its flavor. A simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme works wonders. You can also use a marinade or dry rub to infuse more taste into the meat. For added depth, consider using citrus juices, like lemon or orange, which brighten the flavors and keep the turkey moist during cooking.
How long does it take to cook a Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
Cooking time for a Slow Cooker Turkey Breast depends on its size. Generally, a 3 to 5-pound turkey breast takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 4 to 5 hours on high heat. It’s vital to check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Cooking it slowly ensures that the meat stays juicy and tender throughout.
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker?
Cooking a frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker is not recommended due to food safety concerns. The meat may remain in the “danger zone” temperature range for too long, allowing harmful bacteria to grow. It’s best to thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking it in your slow cooker to ensure even cooking and safety.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
When serving Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, consider delicious side dishes that complement its flavors. Classic options include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, or stuffing. For lighter choices, roasted vegetables or a fresh salad work beautifully. These sides enhance the meal experience and make for an inviting table spread during special occasions or family dinners.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Turkey Breast :
In summary, preparing a Slow Cooker Turkey Breast offers convenience and delicious results. Seasoning with herbs and spices elevates flavor while ensuring tenderness through slow cooking methods. Remember to monitor cooking times and internal temperatures for optimal safety and quality. With this guide, you can enjoy a flavorful turkey breast perfect for any gathering or family meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 37 minute
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the rich, tender flavors of this slow cooker turkey breast—perfect for any day of the week or special gatherings. Enjoy effortless cooking and delightful results!
Ingredients
- 6–8 lbs boneless turkey breast
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp freshly cracked pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
- Season the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Generously sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, and pepper over both sides.
- Add Liquids: Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker to keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
- Slow Cook: Place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the broth, cover, and set to low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for about 4 hours.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook an additional half hour.
- Slice and Serve: Allow the turkey to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 3 oz)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider searing the turkey in a pan before placing it in the slow cooker. Customize seasonings by adding herbs like rosemary or sage. Incorporate vegetables such as carrots and potatoes in the slow cooker for a complete meal.



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