Nothing beats the convenience and mouthwatering flavor of a slow cooker turkey breast. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping for a holiday feast, this slow cooker turkey breast recipe always delivers juicy, tender meat that will impress your family and guests.
Using a slow cooker takes the guesswork out of turkey preparation, allowing you to enjoy succulent results without constant monitoring. This recipe is straightforward and foolproof, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks who want a delicious, stress-free meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal hands-on time
- Consistently juicy and tender turkey every time
- Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners
- Simple ingredients you likely already have
- Versatile for pairing with many sides and sauces
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your juicy slow cooker turkey breast. The seasoning blend adds savory richness without overpowering the natural flavor.
- 3 to 4 pounds boneless skin-on turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours on low
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
How to Make The Juiciest Slow Cooker Turkey Breast – Recipe That Always Delivers
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels and rub with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper; rub this seasoning blend evenly all over the turkey breast.
- Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker, then set the seasoned turkey breast on top.
- Pour chicken broth around the turkey (not over the top) to keep the meat moist without washing off the seasoning.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.
- About 15 minutes before the end, brush the turkey breast with melted butter for extra richness and a beautiful shine.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Slice against the grain, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your favorite sides or gravy.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.
- Keep the skin on during cooking to lock in moisture and add flavor; you can remove it after if preferred.
- Let the turkey rest before slicing—this allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
- If your slow cooker runs hot, check the turkey at 3 hours to prevent drying out.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the broth during cooking.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover slow cooker turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced turkey for up to 3 months, wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags.
To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel or in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
It’s best to thaw the turkey breast completely before slow cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven cooking and longer cook times.
Do I need to baste the turkey during cooking?
Basting isn’t necessary with this slow cooker recipe because the enclosed environment keeps the turkey moist. Brushing with melted butter near the end enhances flavor and appearance.
Can I use boneless skinless turkey breast instead?
You can use boneless skinless turkey breast, but the skin helps keep the meat juicy. Without it, consider adding extra broth or covering the turkey with foil to retain moisture.
What sides pair well with slow cooker turkey breast?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, and cranberry sauce complement this turkey perfectly, making for a well-rounded meal.
