Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of slow-cooked turkey filling the house — it signals that a special meal is on the way. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a cozy fall weekend, or a family gathering where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is your secret weapon. It delivers tender, juicy, flavorful turkey every time, with minimal effort and maximum reward.

The inspiration for this dish comes from the love of classic roasted turkey, but with a modern, time-saving twist. Instead of juggling oven space or worrying about basting, the slow cooker does all the work for you. It’s perfect for small family dinners, holiday spreads, or meal prepping for the week. You’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors of a traditional roast, enhanced by herbs, garlic, and a touch of butter — all cooked low and slow until perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve ever struggled with dry turkey, this recipe will change the way you cook it forever. The slow cooker locks in moisture, allowing the turkey breast to gently simmer in its own juices and the flavorful broth. It’s simple, fuss-free, and reliable — no thermometer anxiety or constant checking required.

Here’s why readers love it:

• Effortless preparation: Just season, set, and forget it.

• Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for holidays or an easy weeknight meal.

• Consistently tender: The slow-cooking process keeps the meat moist and flavorful.

• Great for leftovers: Use it for sandwiches, salads, or casseroles.

This recipe is a must-try for anyone who wants the taste of oven-roasted turkey without the hassle of cooking a full bird.

Ingredients

• 1 whole turkey breast (4–6 pounds), bone-in or boneless

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon dried sage

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 onion, quartered

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 carrots, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Turkey Breast:
   Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick and ensures a golden, flavorful crust later on.

2. Season Generously:
   In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Rub this mixture all over the turkey breast — under the skin and over the top — for maximum flavor.

3. Prepare the Slow Cooker Base:
   Place the chopped onion, celery, and carrots at the bottom of your slow cooker. These vegetables act as a natural rack and add extra depth to the drippings.

4. Add Garlic and Broth:
   Sprinkle the minced garlic over the vegetables and pour in the chicken broth. The liquid will create steam and keep the turkey juicy as it cooks.

5. Set and Cook:
   Place the turkey breast on top of the vegetables, skin side up. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6–7 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking on low heat helps the turkey stay moist and tender.

6. Optional Crisp Finish:
   For crispy skin, transfer the cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 4–5 minutes until golden and crisp. Watch closely to prevent burning.

7. Rest Before Slicing:
   Let the turkey rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful.

8. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice and serve the turkey with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cranberry sauce. Don’t forget to spoon some of the delicious slow-cooker juices over the top before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6–8

Flavor Profile and Serving Suggestions

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The combination of herbs and butter gives the turkey a rich, savory flavor that feels comforting and classic. The vegetables in the slow cooker soak up the juices, turning into soft, flavorful bites that can be served alongside the meat or blended into a quick gravy.

For a festive meal, pair this turkey with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, or honey-glazed carrots. For a lighter approach, serve it with a fresh cranberry salad or steamed green beans with lemon zest.

Leftovers are equally delicious. You can make turkey sandwiches with cranberry mayo, turkey pot pie, or toss the shredded turkey into soups and casseroles for easy, hearty meals throughout the week.

Tips for Success

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the breast. It should read 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked but not dry.

• Don’t Skip the Butter Rub: It adds moisture, flavor, and a golden finish to the skin.

• Cook on Low Heat: High heat can toughen the meat, while low heat keeps it juicy and tender.

• Rest Before Slicing: Give your turkey at least 10 minutes to rest before cutting — it truly makes a difference in texture.

• Save the Drippings: They’re full of flavor! Use them as a natural gravy or mix them into mashed potatoes for an extra punch of taste.

How to Make a Quick Gravy from the Slow Cooker Drippings

Once your turkey breast is cooked, don’t let those savory juices go to waste. They’re the key to a simple, homemade gravy that elevates the entire meal.

1. Strain the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.

3. Bring the drippings to a simmer, then slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture.

4. Cook until thickened, about 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the gravy over your sliced turkey breast, and you’ll have a complete comfort meal worthy of any celebration.

How to Serve for the Holidays

When it comes to Thanksgiving or Christmas, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast fits perfectly into your holiday menu. It allows you to save precious oven space for side dishes and desserts while still serving an impressive main course.

For presentation, transfer the turkey breast to a large serving platter, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and surround it with roasted vegetables or colorful cranberry sauce. Drizzle a bit of the gravy over the top just before serving for a beautiful finishing touch.

It’s a wonderful option for smaller holiday gatherings or when you don’t need to cook an entire turkey. The simplicity and flavor make it just as festive — without the stress.

Storage, Leftovers & Freezing Tips

Proper storage ensures that none of this delicious turkey goes to waste.

• Refrigerate: Store cooked turkey in airtight containers or wrap it tightly in foil. Keeps well for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Slice and portion the turkey before freezing. Wrap in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Use leftovers for turkey sandwiches, creamy turkey soup, turkey salads, or even turkey tacos — the options are endless.

Why This Recipe Works

This slow cooker turkey breast is designed for real life — easy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. The combination of butter, herbs, and low heat ensures every bite is flavorful and juicy. You don’t need to be an experienced cook to achieve impressive results.

By cooking it in the slow cooker, you eliminate the guesswork and stress that often come with roasting a full turkey. The vegetables not only infuse flavor but also create a built-in side dish or base for gravy. It’s a smart, efficient way to enjoy a traditional turkey dinner without the hours of preparation.

Variations to Try

If you want to give this classic recipe a twist, here are a few easy variations:

• Garlic & Herb Turkey Breast: Increase garlic and add extra fresh thyme and rosemary for a fragrant, classic taste.

• Citrus Herb Turkey Breast: Add a few slices of lemon or orange to the slow cooker for a bright, zesty flavor.

• Smoky Paprika Turkey Breast: Sprinkle smoked paprika and a touch of cayenne for a slightly smoky kick.

• Maple Herb Turkey Breast: Drizzle a tablespoon of maple syrup into the broth for subtle sweetness and caramelized notes.

Each version keeps the same tender, slow-cooked perfection but adds a unique flavor dimension to fit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless turkey breasts cook slightly faster than bone-in, usually around 5 to 6 hours on low. Make sure to check the internal temperature early to prevent overcooking. The flavor will still be delicious and the meat perfectly tender.

Should I cook the turkey breast on high or low?
Cooking on low heat is the key to juicy turkey. While cooking on high may save an hour or two, it can dry out the meat. Low and slow allows the turkey to absorb the flavors and maintain its moisture.

Can I add other seasonings or fresh herbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning blend. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be added for a burst of aroma. You can also add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a hint of spice.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a little broth, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

A tender, juicy turkey breast cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings. Infused with savory herbs, garlic, and a touch of butter, this recipe ensures a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth result every time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 whole turkey breast (4–6 pounds), bone-in or boneless

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon dried sage

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 onion, quartered

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 carrots, chopped

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Instructions

• Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.

• Mix butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Rub all over the turkey breast, under the skin and on top.

• Place chopped onion, celery, and carrots at the bottom of the slow cooker.

• Sprinkle minced garlic over the vegetables and pour in the chicken broth.

• Place turkey breast on top of vegetables, skin side up. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Optional: For crispy skin, transfer turkey to a baking sheet and broil for 4–5 minutes until golden.

• Let the turkey rest 10 minutes before slicing.

• Slice and serve with sides, spooning slow-cooker juices over the top.

Notes

• Check internal temperature to ensure turkey is fully cooked.

• Butter rub adds flavor and moisture.

• Cooking on low ensures tender, juicy meat.

• Resting before slicing keeps meat juicy.

• Save drippings for homemade gravy.

• Boneless turkey breasts cook slightly faster, about 5–6 hours.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–7 hours

Michelle Davis