Introduction to The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is your go-to recipe for tender, flavorful turkey without the fuss. Cooking the turkey breast low and slow in a crockpot ensures it stays moist, succulent, and infused with rich herbs and spices. Perfect for holiday dinners, family meals, or any day you crave perfectly cooked poultry, this recipe takes all the stress out of roasting while delivering juicy, melt-in-your-mouth results every time.
Why You’ll Love This The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Incredibly juicy and tender: Slow cooking locks in moisture, preventing dry turkey.
Hands-off convenience: Set it and forget it—ideal for busy days or entertaining.
Flavorful seasoning: A blend of herbs and spices infuses the turkey with savory goodness.
Versatile meal: Perfect on its own, sliced for sandwiches, or served with your favorite sides.
Easy to prepare: Minimal prep work with simple ingredients.
Consistently great results: Avoids the guesswork of oven roasting for foolproof turkey every time.
Ideal for any occasion: From holiday feasts to casual dinners, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Discover how effortless and delicious turkey can be with this juicy slow cooker turkey breast recipe—your new favorite way to enjoy poultry!
Ingredients for The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Slow cooker turkey breast that’s juicy, aromatic, and incredibly easy to make.
For The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful components.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless turkey breast: The star of the show! Look for a 2 to 3-pound cut for optimal juiciness.
Olive oil: This adds richness and helps the spices stick to the turkey.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the turkey.
Black pepper: A classic seasoning that adds a subtle kick.
Garlic powder: For that aromatic depth that makes everything better.
Onion powder: It complements the garlic and adds a savory note.
Dried thyme: This herb brings a hint of earthiness to the dish.
Dried rosemary: Its piney flavor pairs beautifully with turkey.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the turkey moist and adds flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish and balances the richness.
Fresh parsley: For garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness.
Feel free to get creative!
You can toss in sliced onions and carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
If you’re craving a crispy skin, consider searing the turkey breast in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Creating The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a straightforward process that anyone can master.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Start by rinsing the boneless turkey breast under cold water.
This step is crucial; it helps remove any residual juices and ensures a clean flavor.
After rinsing, pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
Drying it well is key to achieving that perfect texture.
A moist turkey can lead to a soggy result, and nobody wants that!
Step 2: Seasoning the Turkey
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
This blend of spices is what elevates the turkey’s flavor profile.
Once mixed, rub the olive oil over the turkey breast.
Then, generously coat it with your spice mixture.
Make sure every inch is covered; this is where the magic happens!
Step 3: Setting Up the Slow Cooker
Now it’s time to set up your slow cooker.
Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker, making sure it fits snugly.
Pour the low-sodium chicken broth around the turkey, followed by the lemon juice.
This combination keeps the turkey moist and infuses it with flavor as it cooks.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid, sealing in all that goodness.
Step 4: Cooking Time
Cook the turkey on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
The key is to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you smell that savory aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the turkey is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker.
Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy.
When serving, drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the turkey for added flavor.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Your guests will be raving about this dish!
Tips for Success
Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it’s the best way to avoid dry turkey.
For extra flavor, marinate the turkey overnight with the seasoning mix.
Don’t skip the resting time; it’s crucial for juicy slices.
Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
Save the leftover cooking liquid for a delicious gravy or soup base!
Equipment Needed
Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven can work too.
Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking doneness. A simple knife can also help, but it’s less reliable.
Cutting Board: For slicing the turkey. Any sturdy surface will do.
Mixing Bowl: To combine your spices. A plate can work in a pinch.
Variations
Herb-Infused Turkey: Swap out the dried thyme and rosemary for fresh herbs like sage or tarragon for a vibrant twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy flavor boost.
Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey over the turkey breast before cooking for a sweet and savory combination.
Apple Cider Brine: Soak the turkey in apple cider overnight for a subtly sweet and tangy flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower mash instead of traditional sides for a healthier, low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole for a comforting meal.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Wine Pairing: Serve with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Arrange turkey slices on a platter, drizzled with cooking liquid, and garnish with parsley for a beautiful display.
FAQs about The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
While it’s best to use a thawed turkey breast for even cooking, you can use a frozen one. Just increase the cooking time by 1 to 2 hours on low.
What can I do with leftovers from The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even turkey soup. Shred the turkey and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce for a delicious twist!
How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
The turkey is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey breast the night before and let it marinate in the seasoning. Just pop it in the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
What sides pair well with The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully. Don’t forget the gravy made from the cooking liquid!
Final Thoughts
Cooking The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories.
The aroma that fills your kitchen, the smiles around the table, and the satisfaction of serving a dish that everyone loves—these moments are what make cooking worthwhile.
This recipe is a reminder that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.
With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can bring joy to your family and friends.
So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process.
You’ll find that the best meals are often the simplest ones!
A delicious and juicy slow cooker turkey breast recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
2 to 3 pounds boneless turkey breast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Start by rinsing the boneless turkey breast under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
Rub the olive oil over the turkey breast, then evenly coat it with the spice mixture.
Place the seasoned turkey breast in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice around the turkey.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the turkey is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once cooked, remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve the turkey slices with some of the cooking liquid drizzled over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding sliced onions and carrots to the slow cooker along with the turkey.
If you prefer a crispy skin, sear the turkey breast in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side before placing it in the slow cooker.