Description
This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe offers a simple, hands-off way to prepare tender, flavorful turkey with minimal effort. Slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables, apple, lemon, and fresh thyme, and finished with a broil for crisp skin, this dish is perfect for a comforting family meal or holiday dinner.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 (4-5 pound) boneless turkey breast OR 1 (6-pound) bone-in turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium lemon, zested and cut into 8 wedges
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 carrots, scrubbed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 red apple, cut into 8 wedges
- 8 sprigs fresh thyme
Liquids and Butter
- 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Season and Marinate Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, ground black pepper, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Rub this seasoning evenly all over the turkey breast. Place lemon wedges into the slow cooker.
- Marinate: Transfer the seasoned turkey to the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Prepare Slow Cooker Base: Arrange the cut carrots, celery, apple wedges, thyme sprigs, and lemon wedges evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavorful bed for the turkey to rest on while cooking.
- Slow Cook the Turkey: Place the marinated turkey breast on top of the vegetable mixture in the slow cooker. Pour the dry white wine or chicken broth gently around the turkey (avoid pouring directly over the top to keep seasoning in place). Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the turkey. Cover and cook on LOW setting for 4 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey breast reaches 155°F (68°C).
- Rest the Turkey: Carefully remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board or serving platter. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes to let the juices redistribute for a moist result.
- Crisp the Skin (Optional): To achieve a crispy skin, place the rested turkey under the oven broiler for approximately 4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. This step enhances texture and adds an appealing golden finish.
- Serve: Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve with your favorite sides. Use the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to make a delicious gravy if desired.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the turkey overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- The broiling step is optional but recommended for crisp skin.
- If using bone-in turkey breast, cooking time may increase slightly.
- Leftover turkey and cooking liquid can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
