This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is juicy and tender, making it perfect for any meal! Just season it, pop it into the slow cooker, and let it do its magic while you relax.
And let’s be real, the smell wafting through your home will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” 🍗 I love serving it with some veggies for a cozy dinner—so easy and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: You can use a bone-in or boneless turkey breast for this recipe. Bone-in usually yields a juicier result, but boneless might be more convenient. If turkey isn’t available, chicken breast is a great substitute!
Olive Oil: This is used for rubbing the turkey. You can swap it with melted butter or avocado oil if you prefer. Both will keep the turkey moist and flavorful.
Spices: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika gives the turkey a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work. Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your taste!
Broth: You can use chicken broth or turkey broth to keep it flavorful. Vegetable broth is a good alternative if you need a lighter, plant-based option.
How Do I Ensure My Turkey Is Juicy and Well-Seasoned?
One of the most important parts of this recipe is properly seasoning the turkey and cooking it just right. Here’s how:
- Pat the turkey dry to help the oil and spices stick better.
- Rub olive oil all over the turkey before applying the spice mix. This helps lock in moisture.
- Make sure to use the low and slow method in the slow cooker. Cooking on low for 6-7 hours is key to a juicy turkey.
- Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lb turkey breast, bone-in or boneless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth or turkey broth
- 3 to 4 small yellow potatoes, halved or quartered (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (rosemary, thyme, sage)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. If you cook on LOW, it will take 6 to 7 hours; if you cook on HIGH, it will take 3 to 4 hours. So, total time can range from 3 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes, depending on your choice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasoning:
Start by taking a small bowl and mixing together your salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage. This spice mix will make your turkey delicious!
2. Prepare the Turkey:
Now, pat your turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Rub olive oil all over the turkey, and then sprinkle the spice mix evenly, pressing gently so it sticks well.
3. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker. If you’re using potatoes, go ahead and arrange them around the turkey in the pot.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken or turkey broth around the turkey (but don’t pour it directly on top, as we want to keep all that seasoning intact).
5. Start Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Slice:
Once cooked, carefully take the turkey out of the slow cooker and let it rest on a cutting board for 10-15 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Then, slice it up.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the turkey slices with the cooked potatoes (if you used them), garnish with fresh herbs, and drizzle some of the juices from the slow cooker on top. Enjoy your delicious, tender turkey!
With this straightforward recipe, you’ll create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use a Frozen Turkey Breast?
It’s best to use a thawed turkey breast for this recipe. If you have a frozen turkey breast, thaw it in the fridge for 24-48 hours before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings?
Absolutely! You can customize the spice blend to your liking. If you prefer less heat, reduce or eliminate the smoked paprika. You can also add your favorite herbs, such as oregano or basil, for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the turkey in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist during reheating.
What Should I Serve with the Turkey?
This turkey pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, or a fresh salad. You can also turn leftovers into sandwiches or salads for another delicious meal!