If you’ve ever wished for a perfectly juicy, flavor-packed turkey without the fuss of a whole bird or hours in the oven, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe. This method is a total lifesaver for busy weeknights, smaller holiday gatherings, or any day you’re craving savory turkey and don’t want to heat up the entire kitchen! With a fragrant medley of herbs, buttery olive oil, and tender onions, this dish promises turkey with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Let’s dig into why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I can’t emphasize enough how each ingredient plays a starring role in this Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe, adding layers of warmth, aroma, and that irresistible golden color. These simple pantry staples blend to make turkey breast wonderfully moist and bursting with deliciousness!
- Turkey breast (5–6 lbs, bone-in or boneless): The star of the show! Opt for thawed turkey to ensure even cooking and the juiciest results.
- Olive oil or melted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness, encourages browning, and helps the seasoning cling to every nook and cranny.
- Garlic powder (1 tbsp): Brings a deep, mellow garlicky flavor without overpowering the turkey.
- Onion powder (1 tbsp): Lends subtle sweetness and blends beautifully with the savory spices.
- Paprika (1 tsp): For a gorgeous color and gentle smoky warmth.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Infuses the meat with classic herby freshness.
- Dried rosemary (1 tsp): Gives the turkey that signature aromatic flair—turkey and rosemary are absolute best friends.
- Dried sage (1/2 tsp): A little goes a long way for that unmistakable Thanksgiving aroma.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for pulling out every ounce of savory goodness.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds just the right kick and rounds out the flavors.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1 cup): Keeps the turkey extra juicy and doubles as the base for a mouthwatering gravy.
- Onion, quartered (1): Sits beneath the turkey, flavoring the juices and subtly sweetening every bite.
- Garlic cloves, smashed (3): Roasts underneath to perfume both meat and broth with heavenly garlicky notes.
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Turkey Breast
Start by patting your turkey breast completely dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the skin crisp and ensures your rub sticks beautifully. If your turkey breast has any extra moisture left over from thawing, consider letting it sit uncovered in the fridge for an hour or so—crispier skin awaits!
Step 2: Mix Up Your Seasoning Rub
In a small bowl, mix together your olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper. You’ll end up with a fragrant paste that’s worth swooning over. This rub is key for creating that savory, herbaceous crust on the finished turkey.
Step 3: Rub It All Over
Gently loosen the skin on your turkey where possible and massage that gorgeous seasoning mixture all over—make sure to cover every inch, including under the skin. This is where the flavor magic happens, so take your time to get a nice, even coating!
Step 4: Layer the Crockpot
Arrange the quartered onion and smashed garlic cloves in the bottom of your slow cooker, then pour in the chicken broth. These aromatics infuse the turkey with moisture and flavor while keeping the breast beautifully elevated as it cooks.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Nestle the seasoned turkey breast into your slow cooker, skin-side up. Cover and let it work its magic! Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Check a little early if you’re using boneless turkey breasts; they can reach temperature faster.
Step 6: Optional—Broil for Crispy Skin
If you’re a fan of shatteringly crisp turkey skin (who isn’t?), carefully transfer your cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet and slide it under the broiler for 3–5 minutes. Keep a close eye—things go from golden to too dark in a flash!
Step 7: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Let your turkey rest for about 10 minutes before carving, which helps seal in all those incredible juices. Then slice, serve, and get ready for the most unbelievably satisfying turkey meal—no special occasion required.
How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) right before serving brings brightness and color to your Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe. Add a few lemon wedges on the platter for elegance and a pop of freshness, or drizzle a little of that homemade gravy from the slow cooker juices for extra flavor.
Side Dishes
Classic turkey sides always hit the spot! Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or green bean casserole make dreamy accompaniments. For a comforting, everyday meal, try pairing with a crisp salad or fluffy rice pilaf to soak up the savory juices from your Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn leftovers into epic turkey sandwiches layered with pickled red onions and cranberry mayo, or create a wholesome grain bowl topped with turkey slices, roasted sweet potatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. Don’t forget to use excess turkey breast in salads or wraps for easy lunches the next day—this recipe is endlessly versatile!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe tucked away in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 4 days. Slice what you need and leave the rest whole to retain moisture, then spoon over a bit of cooking liquid to keep the meat from drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, let your turkey breast cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. For best quality, enjoy within 2 months. Frozen turkey makes fabulous meal prep for soups, pastas, or casseroles!
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven, covered with foil and moistened with a spoonful of broth or gravy. This helps keep the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe moist and flavorful, so leftovers taste as fresh as day one.
FAQs
Can I use a frozen turkey breast?
For best results, always thaw your turkey breast completely before cooking. Slow cookers heat gradually, and starting with frozen meat can lead to uneven cooking and food safety concerns. Thaw safely in the fridge for a day or two before making your Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe.
Do I need to baste the turkey during cooking?
Not at all! The beauty of the slow cooker is that it creates a steam-rich, moist cooking environment, so basting isn’t necessary. The meat stays juicy and the flavors develop all on their own.
How do I know when my turkey is cooked through?
The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Your Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe is perfectly cooked when the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F. Avoid guessing—let the thermometer be your guide!
Can I skip the broiling step?
Absolutely! If you don’t mind softer skin, you can serve the turkey straight from the slow cooker. The broiler adds a lovely crisp finish, but it’s totally optional, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more tender skin.
Does this recipe work with boneless turkey breast?
Yes, boneless turkey breasts are a wonderful option and may cook even a little faster. Just check the temperature toward the early end of the cooking range so the meat stays wonderfully moist. The rest of the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe stays the same!
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe is my secret weapon for make-ahead meals and unforgettable holiday gatherings alike. It’s stress-free, always juicy, and bursting with comforting flavors. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new weeknight or special occasion go-to—give it a try and savor the delicious simplicity!
Print
Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is a hassle-free way to enjoy a tender and flavorful turkey dish. With a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, the turkey cooks to perfection in the slow cooker, making it ideal for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Turkey:
- 1 (5–6 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast, thawed if frozen
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- Create the Seasoning Rub: Mix olive oil (or melted butter) with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Season the Turkey: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast.
- Set Up the Crockpot: Place onion and garlic in the crockpot, pour in chicken broth, and set the turkey breast on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Crisp the Skin: For crispy skin, broil the cooked turkey for 3–5 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use the cooking liquid to make a simple gravy with a cornstarch slurry.
- Boneless turkey breasts may cook slightly faster—check temperature early to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz cooked turkey
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
