This juicy and tender slow-cooked turkey breast is perfectly seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. The slow cooking method locks in moisture, making it a hassle-free and delicious main dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or a weeknight meal, this turkey breast is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why this slow cooker turkey breast will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just season, set it in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic. The slow cooking process ensures the turkey is wonderfully moist and tender, while the spices give it just the right flavor. Plus, you can enjoy all the benefits of a roasted turkey without the need for constant monitoring in the oven.

This recipe also works great for busy weeknights or when hosting guests, as it makes a large number of servings (8 to 10) and takes minimal prep time. With a bit of optional broiling for crispy skin, you can have a perfectly roasted turkey every time, without the hassle. Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

Ingredients

1 (5 to 7 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast
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 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
1 cup chicken or turkey broth

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil or melted butter.
Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme or rosemary. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the turkey.
Set Up the Slow Cooker: Pour the broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker, skin-side up if using a bone-in cut.
Cook the Turkey: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Optional – Broil for Crispy Skin: For crispy skin, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 4 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve: Let the turkey rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 to 10 servings

Variations

Herb Variations: Swap thyme or rosemary with sage, parsley, or oregano to customize the flavor to your liking.
Citrus Twist: Add a few slices of lemon or orange on top of the turkey before cooking for a refreshing, zesty touch.
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder along with the other spices.
Vegetable Infusion: Place onions, carrots, and celery around the turkey breast in the slow cooker for added flavor and a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat turkey slices in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat it in the slow cooker on low for about 1 hour, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast; the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so be sure to check the internal temperature.

2. What is the best way to check if the turkey is cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The turkey is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I cook the turkey on high instead of low in the slow cooker?

You can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours, but slow cooking on low allows the turkey to become more tender and juicy.

4. How can I make the skin crispy without broiling?

Broiling is the quickest way to get crispy skin, but if you don’t want to broil, you can try cooking it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to dry out and crisp up a bit.

5. Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this recipe?

It’s not recommended to cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker, as it may not cook evenly. Always thaw the turkey in the refrigerator before cooking.

6. Can I make gravy with the broth?

Yes, you can make a simple gravy by straining the broth and thickening it with a bit of flour or cornstarch.

7. Can I cook the turkey overnight?

You can cook the turkey on low for up to 8 hours, so it is possible to start it before bed. However, it’s best to check the turkey’s temperature and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

8. How do I prevent the turkey from drying out?

The slow cooker method helps retain moisture, but you can also add a little extra broth and make sure the turkey stays covered while cooking.

9. Can I cook a smaller turkey breast in the slow cooker?

Yes, if you have a smaller turkey breast, adjust the cooking time accordingly, but it should still work well in the slow cooker.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the turkey ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is a perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. The slow cooking method ensures the turkey comes out tender and juicy, and the blend of herbs and spices provides just the right amount of seasoning. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe will help you create a delicious, no-fuss meal that everyone will enjoy.