If you’re on the hunt for a succulent, tender, and utterly flavorful way to prepare turkey, then this Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Perfectly infused with garlic, thyme, and spices, and slow-cooked to juicy perfection, this dish takes all the fuss out of holiday meals or any special dinner. The slow cooker does all the magic, leaving you with a turkey breast that slices beautifully, stays moist, and boasts crispy skin if you finish it just right. Trust me, once you try this recipe, turkey night will never be the same again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in making the Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe not only flavorful but extraordinarily tender and aromatic. From fresh herbs to pantry spices and essential fats, every component adds depth, color, and texture to this crowd-pleaser.
- 2 kg / 4 lb turkey breast, skin on, bone in or boneless: This is your star ingredient, and keeping the skin on ensures juicy meat and crispy finish.
- 1 head of garlic, cut in half horizontally: Roasting it slowly with the turkey adds a mellow, sweet garlic flavor that permeates the meat.
- 1 onion, unpeeled, cut in half: Adds subtle sweetness and helps create a natural bed for the turkey to rest on while cooking.
- 5 sprigs of thyme (or 2 tsp dried thyme leaves): Fresh thyme infuses an earthy, herbal note that pairs perfectly with poultry.
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor without overpowering.
- 1 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory aroma and taste subtly.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds mild warmth and beautiful color to the rub.
- 2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and helps tenderize the meat.
- 5 grinds of black pepper: Gives just the right kick of spice.
- 1 1/2 – 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the rub become a paste and locks in moisture.
- Chicken stock or broth (or water): Used to keep the turkey moist during cooking and for making flavorful gravy.
- 4 tbsp / 50g butter, 1/4 cup / 35g flour, salt and pepper: For making a rich, smooth gravy to go alongside the turkey slices.
How to Make Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rub
Start by mixing the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and olive oil in a bowl until you have a wet paste. This paste is your aromatic powerhouse that will coat the turkey breast and penetrate deeply to flavor every bite.
Step 2: Prep the Turkey
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels—this helps the rub stick better and ensures crisp skin later. Spread the rub all over the turkey, focusing especially on the sides and top. Don’t be shy here; coating it generously is key for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Arrange the Slow Cooker
Take the cut head of garlic, the onion halves, and thyme sprigs and place them face down at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a natural roasting rack and infuses the turkey from underneath with herbal and savory notes. Then, gently lay the turkey breast on top so it’s slightly elevated.
Step 4: Slow Cook on Low
Set your slow cooker to LOW and cook for about 6 hours. This low-and-slow method ensures the turkey breast stays juicy and perfectly tender. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), checking with a meat thermometer at around 5 hours to avoid overcooking. Patience here pays off immensely.
Step 5: Rest Your Turkey
Remove the turkey breast carefully from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for 20 minutes. Resting is essential because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and luscious when sliced.
Step 6: Crisp the Skin Perfectly
After the resting period, if you want that irresistible crispy skin, place the turkey breast under a hot broiler for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. The result is a beautifully golden, crisp finish that adds texture and flavor contrast to the juicy meat.
Step 7: Make the Gravy
While the turkey rests, use the flavorful liquid left in the slow cooker as a base for your gravy. Melt the butter in a pan, whisk in the flour to make a roux, then slowly stir in the liquid (top it up with chicken stock or broth if needed). Season to taste with salt and pepper, and cook until smooth and thickened. This gravy complements the Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe perfectly.
How to Serve Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped thyme or parsley add a pop of fresh green color and an extra burst of flavor that brightens up the dish. You can also add a few slices of roasted garlic alongside to elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This turkey pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light, crisp salad. For a cozy meal, consider serving it with creamy stuffing or warm dinner rolls—each bite complementing the richly flavored turkey perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the turkey thin and layering it on a platter with colorful garnishes like pomegranate seeds or orange slices for a festive touch. Alternatively, carve thick slices and serve alongside a small bowl of gravy for dipping—perfect for a family-style feast where everyone can dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover turkey tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for next-day sandwiches or quick meals.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked turkey breast slices by layering them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the meat juicy and tender.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers without drying them out, warm turkey slices gently in the oven covered with foil or in a microwave with a splash of chicken broth to retain moisture. Keep the temperature low and slow during reheating to maintain that signature juiciness we love about the Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use boneless turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether bone-in or boneless, the slow cooker method keeps the turkey incredibly moist and flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if your breast is smaller or larger to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Is it necessary to crisp the skin after slow cooking?
Crisping the skin is optional but highly recommended. The slow cooker keeps the skin soft and gentle, but a quick broil gives you that coveted crispy texture that elevates the dish.
Can I prepare this recipe if my turkey breast is frozen?
It’s best to thaw your turkey breast fully before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety. Plan ahead and thaw in the fridge overnight or use cold water thawing methods before starting the recipe.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. When it reads 165°F (75°C), your turkey is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Dried thyme is a great substitute—use about 2 teaspoons to mimic the flavor and aroma of fresh sprigs. Other herbs like rosemary or sage can also work, though they will impart a different yet delicious flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely comforting and satisfying about cooking your turkey slow and low to bring out its best qualities. This Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe is perfect for hands-off cooking that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weekend meal, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—your family and friends will thank you for the juicy, tender turkey magic you bring to the table!
Print
Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, flavorful turkey cooked low and slow to perfection. Using simple herbs, spices, and aromatics, the turkey is infused with mouthwatering savory notes while staying moist and juicy throughout its long cooking time. The slow cooker method ensures easy hands-off preparation, culminating in a deliciously crisped skin and optional homemade gravy for a comforting centerpiece suitable for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Turkey Rub
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp salt
- 5 grinds black pepper
- 1 1/2 – 2 tbsp olive oil
Main Ingredients
- 2 kg / 4 lb turkey breast, skin on, bone in or boneless (if using frozen, thaw it)
- 1 head of garlic, cut in half horizontally
- 1 onion (brown, yellow or white), unpeeled, cut in half
- 5 sprigs thyme (or 2 tsp dried thyme leaves)
- Chicken stock or broth (or water), for topping up liquid
Gravy
- 4 tbsp / 50g butter
- 1/4 cup / 35g flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Rub: In a bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and olive oil to create a wet paste. This mixture will flavor the turkey and form a delicious crust.
- Season the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels. Spread the rub generously all over the turkey, especially on the sides and top, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor.
- Set Up Slow Cooker: Place the halved garlic head, unpeeled onion halves, and thyme sprigs face down in the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful bed for the turkey.
- Slow Cook the Turkey: Position the seasoned turkey breast on top of the aromatics so it is slightly elevated. Cover and cook on LOW setting for 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F (75C) when checked with a thermometer inserted into the thickest part. If possible, check temperature at 5 hours to avoid overcooking.
- Rest the Turkey: Carefully remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 20 minutes. Do not keep it warm in the cooker, as this can dry out the meat. Resting allows juices to redistribute for optimal juiciness.
- Crisp the Skin: To crisp the skin, preheat your oven broiler or a hot skillet. Place the turkey skin-side up and broil or sear briefly until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Make the Gravy: Pour the slow cooker liquids through a sieve into a saucepan, discarding solids. Add butter and melt over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook gently to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in liquid until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve gravy alongside sliced turkey.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey reaches safe internal temperature of 165F (75C).
- Letting the turkey rest before crisping the skin enhances moisture retention.
- If you prefer roasting, you can follow an oven-based turkey breast recipe instead.
- Slow cooking on LOW is crucial to achieving tender, juicy meat; avoid using HIGH setting.
- Adding stock or broth to the slow cooker helps maintain moisture and provides flavorful gravy base.
