Tired of dry, bland turkey? Imagine a succulent, perfectly seasoned turkey breast that practically cooks itself, leaving you with more time to enjoy your day. Our incredibly easy crockpot turkey breast recipe promises just that: a consistently moist and flavorful main course with minimal effort, perfect for any occasion from a busy weeknight to a small holiday gathering.
This slow cooker method is a game-changer, ensuring your turkey breast comes out tender every single time. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to prepare a delicious and healthy meal that will impress everyone at your table!
Why This Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe is a Must-Try
This isn’t just another turkey recipe; it’s a culinary triumph in simplicity and flavor. Here’s why our crockpot turkey breast stands out:
- Effortless Perfection: The beauty of a slow cooker means true set-it-and-forget-it convenience. Prep takes mere minutes, and then your crockpot does all the heavy lifting, freeing up your time for other tasks or simply relaxing.
- Unmatched Moisture & Tenderness: Slow cooking at a low temperature is the secret weapon against dry turkey. The gentle, consistent heat locks in juices, resulting in a turkey breast that is unbelievably moist, tender, and fall-apart delicious.
- Versatile Flavor Profile: Our balanced seasoning blend creates a universally appealing flavor, but it’s also incredibly adaptable. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or spices, making this crockpot turkey breast a versatile foundation for countless meals.
Ingredients for Your Perfect Crockpot Turkey Breast
Crafting a truly flavorful and moist crockpot turkey breast starts with understanding your ingredients. Here’s a deeper dive into what you’ll need:
Boneless Turkey Breast (3-4 lb)
Opt for a boneless, skinless turkey breast for ease of preparation and cooking. A 3-4 pound breast is ideal for most slow cookers and serves about 6 people. If your turkey breast is frozen, ensure it is fully thawed in the refrigerator before beginning this recipe to ensure even cooking and food safety.
Chicken Broth (1/2 cup)
Chicken broth adds essential moisture to the bottom of the crockpot, preventing the turkey from drying out and creating a flavorful base for any potential pan drippings. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake; adjust the added salt in the seasoning mix accordingly.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
Olive oil acts as a binder for our seasoning blend, helping it adhere to the turkey breast. It also contributes a subtle richness and helps achieve a beautiful golden hue on the surface of the turkey as it cooks.
Seasoning Blend: Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Dried Parsley, Salt, Black Pepper
This classic combination forms the backbone of our delicious crockpot turkey breast. Garlic powder and onion powder provide aromatic depth, while paprika adds a touch of warmth and color. Dried parsley brightens the flavor profile, and of course, salt and black pepper are crucial for enhancing all the other flavors. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your personal preference, or add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
Step-by-Step Overview: How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast
1. Prepare Your Turkey Breast for Slow Cooking
Begin by gently patting your boneless turkey breast dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the seasoning adhere better and can contribute to a slightly crisper exterior, even in a slow cooker. Remove any excess fat if desired.
2. Seasoning the Perfect Crockpot Turkey Breast
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a thick paste. This ensures an even distribution of flavor. Next, generously rub this aromatic seasoning mixture all over the entire surface of the turkey breast, making sure to cover every crevice for maximum flavor penetration.
3. Setting Up Your Slow Cooker for Success
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. This liquid base is vital for creating a moist environment and preventing the turkey from sticking. Carefully place your seasoned turkey breast directly into the crockpot, ensuring it sits comfortably without touching the sides too much.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time can vary based on the size of your turkey breast and the specific model of your slow cooker. The most important indicator of doneness is the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the turkey breast reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Resting and Slicing Your Moist Turkey Breast
Once the turkey breast has reached the correct internal temperature, carefully remove it from the crockpot. Transfer it to a cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period is absolutely essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a supremely moist and tender result. After resting, slice the crockpot turkey breast against the grain and serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.
Crockpot Turkey Breast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast.
- Pour chicken broth into the bottom of your crockpot.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast from the crockpot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
Tips & Variations for Your Crockpot Turkey Breast
This crockpot turkey breast recipe is incredibly forgiving and versatile. Here are some tips and variations to make it truly your own:
- Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and a complete meal, add chopped root vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to the bottom of the crockpot along with the chicken broth. They’ll cook down and absorb the turkey’s juices, creating a delicious side dish.
- Herb Boost: Elevate the flavor profile by adding fresh or dried herbs. A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme tucked around the turkey breast during cooking will infuse it with wonderful aromatic notes. Sage is another excellent choice, especially for a more traditional holiday flavor.
- Gravy from Drippings: Don’t let those flavorful pan drippings go to waste! After removing the turkey, you can easily make a simple gravy. Skim off any excess fat, then whisk in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) into the hot drippings in the crockpot. Simmer until thickened, seasoning to taste.
- Avoid Frozen Turkey: For the best results and food safety, always use a fully thawed turkey breast. Cooking a frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking and potentially dangerous temperatures.
- Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your seasoning mix.
- Storage and Leftovers: Leftover crockpot turkey breast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. It’s fantastic for sandwiches, salads, or even in a hearty soup. If you’re looking for another quick and creamy weeknight delight, you might enjoy our Ultimate One Pot Ditalini Pasta: Your Quick & Creamy Weeknight Italian Delight.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Turkey Breast
This moist and flavorful crockpot turkey breast is a star on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, and a dollop of cranberry sauce. It’s also excellent with roasted asparagus, sweet potato casserole, or a fresh garden salad. For a fun dipping experience with your turkey, consider making our Cane’s Sauce Recipe: How to Make the Famous Dipping Sauce.
Beyond the main meal, leftovers are incredibly versatile. Slice it thinly for delicious turkey sandwiches, shred it for tacos or quesadillas, or dice it into a vibrant turkey salad. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Say goodbye to dry, bland turkey forever! This incredibly easy and delicious crockpot turkey breast recipe is a testament to the power of slow cooking. With minimal hands-on time, you can achieve a consistently moist, tender, and flavorful main course that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a small gathering, or simply want a healthy and satisfying meal prep option, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and transform your perception of turkey!
Can I use a bone-in turkey breast?
Yes, you can use a bone-in turkey breast, but it might take a bit longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165u00b0F (74u00b0C).
Do I need to add liquid to the crockpot?
Yes, adding a small amount of liquid like chicken broth helps keep the turkey moist and prevents it from drying out in the slow cooker.
How do I store leftover crockpot turkey breast?
Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the turkey?
Absolutely! You can place chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot for added flavor and a complete meal.