If there’s one dish that can make any family meal feel like a holiday feast with absolutely minimal effort, it’s this Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe. Succulent, perfectly seasoned turkey breast cooks low and slow to juicy, tender perfection, infused with savory herbs and the cozy flavors of garlic and onion. The best part? Your home will smell incredible, you’ll free up oven space, and you’ll only need a handful of pantry staples to make a show-stopping centerpiece, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, once you try making turkey this way, you might never turn on your oven for turkey again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe keeps things refreshingly simple, celebrating basic ingredients that really let the turkey shine. Each component plays a special part in building that savory depth, juicy texture, and gorgeous golden color.
- Turkey breast (4–5 lb, bone-in or boneless): The star of the show! Bone-in adds richness and moisture, but boneless works if you’re after easier slicing.
- Olive oil or melted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps the seasonings stick and gives the turkey that luxurious, golden exterior.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Absolutely crucial for drawing out the natural flavors and keeping each bite perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat that balances all the herbs.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Lends that irresistible earthy aroma and savoriness everyone craves.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle sweetness and richness in every bite.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Contributes color and a smoky background note that really makes the turkey sing.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Pairs beautifully with poultry for classic herby undertones.
- Dried rosemary (1/2 teaspoon): Adds aromatic, piney freshness that sets turkey apart from the ordinary.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1 cup): Keeps things moist and builds a flavor-packed base for gravy later.
- Onion, quartered (1): Sits at the bottom of the crockpot, infusing gentle sweetness into the turkey.
- Garlic cloves, smashed (4): Tucked under the turkey for that dreamy roasted garlic essence.
How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Turkey
Pat your turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure the seasonings and fat adhere beautifully. This quick step also helps the skin crisp up later under the broiler, giving you that irresistible golden finish.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. This magical mixture is what transforms a simple turkey breast into a savory showstopper, infusing every bite with warmth and flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Turkey
Rub the turkey breast all over with olive oil or melted butter. Then, generously coat every nook and cranny with your seasoning blend. Don’t be shy! This is your chance to add maximum flavor and get that lovely blush of color from the paprika and herbs.
Step 4: Assemble in the Crockpot
Scatter the quartered onion and smashed garlic cloves in the bottom of your crockpot, then pour in the chicken broth. These humble aromatics infuse the turkey with gentle, savory notes as it basks in the slow cooker’s embrace.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Place your seasoned turkey breast on top of the onions and garlic, skin side up if using skin-on turkey. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Try not to peek too often! Keeping the lid on locks in all the moisture, resulting in that unbelievably juicy meat the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe is famous for.
Step 6: (Optional) Broil for Crispy Skin
If you crave that classic golden, crackly skin, transfer the cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely, as it can brown quickly — this finishing touch adds both flavor and eye appeal.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This step allows all those lovely juices to redistribute, so every slice is moist and delicious. Now you’re ready to serve and impress!
How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect presentation, sprinkle the sliced turkey with a handful of freshly chopped parsley or thyme. A few lemon wedges on the side add color and a pop of brightness to the platter. If you’re feeling festive, scatter on some pomegranate seeds for a burst of juicy sweetness.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe shines alongside traditional sides like buttery mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or roasted vegetables. For an everyday meal, try it with steamed green beans, herbed rice, or a simple mixed greens salad. The subtle herb flavors play well with just about anything.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the turkey breast and fanning it out over a bed of sautéed greens or wild rice pilaf. For a modern twist, serve it as sliders with soft rolls and a swipe of mayo or cranberry relish. Leftovers shine in grain bowls, tacos, or tossed with pasta and roasted veggies for lunch the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers from your Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keeping the meat in its cooking juices will help retain that marvelous moisture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save your turkey for another time, slice or shred the cooled meat and freeze in portions, along with a bit of the cooking liquid, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the turkey breast slices in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water until warmed through. This helps prevent the meat from drying out and keeps those savory flavors locked in.
FAQs
Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe?
It’s best to fully thaw your turkey breast before slow cooking to ensure even cooking throughout. Cooking straight from frozen may result in uneven texture and could affect food safety.
What size crockpot works best?
A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for most turkey breasts in the 4 to 5-pound range. If your turkey is larger or you only have a smaller crockpot, make sure there’s room around the meat for air and liquid circulation so it cooks properly.
How do I make gravy with the cooking liquid?
After removing the turkey, strain the liquid and simmer it in a saucepan. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering liquid. Cook until your gravy thickens to your liking—season with a little salt and pepper, and you’re all set!
Is this Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic main dish option for anyone avoiding gluten at holiday gatherings or everyday meals.
Can I cook vegetables with the turkey?
Absolutely! Add carrots, potatoes, or celery under or around the turkey for a built-in side dish. Just be sure there’s enough liquid in the bottom, and remember that very soft veggies may absorb some turkey flavor as they cook.
Final Thoughts
Once you make this Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe, you’ll fall in love with how easy and delicious homemade turkey can be, no matter the occasion. If you’re ready to wow your family and make every meal a little special, give this recipe a try—the slow cooker does all the work, and you get all the flavor and comfort. Enjoy your new favorite way to serve turkey!
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Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a tender and flavorful turkey without much effort. Slow-cooked to juicy perfection, this dish is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices for a delicious meal that’s ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Turkey:
- 1 (4–5 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast, thawed
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Additional:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- Season the Turkey: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the turkey with oil/butter and seasonings.
- Set up Crockpot: Place onion and garlic in the crockpot, pour in broth, then add seasoned turkey on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Crisp the Skin: For crispy skin, broil turkey for 3–5 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Rest the turkey for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Bone-in turkey breast yields juicier results.
- Use cooking liquid to make gravy.
- Leftovers are great for sandwiches or salads.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
