Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe

If you love juicy, tender turkey but dread the stress of oven-roasting, this Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe is about to become your new holiday hero—and honestly, your weeknight go-to as well. Imagine perfectly seasoned turkey breast that cooks itself while you go about your day, emerging moist and flavorful with zero fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, keeping the meat incredibly tender, and with a quick broil at the end, you even get that coveted golden, crispy skin. Whether you’re feeding a smaller crowd for Thanksgiving or just craving an easy comfort meal, this Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe ensures effortless, delicious results every time.

Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple, vibrant ingredients that each bring their own special magic—tender turkey, fresh herbs, and aromatic veggies come together to create a feast you’ll crave all year long. Each ingredient is chosen not just for flavor, but for texture, aroma, and the secret something they lend to the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe.

  • Turkey Breast: The star of the show—choose a 4 to 6-pound breast, bone-in or boneless, for juicy, flavorful meat perfect for slicing.
  • Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps lock in moisture while carrying the flavors of herbs and garlic deep into the turkey.
  • Garlic (minced): Gives a savory kick and aromatic depth, making each bite irresistible.
  • Rosemary (fresh or dried): Lends a piney, earthy note that pairs so beautifully with poultry.
  • Thyme (fresh or dried): Brings a lemony, slightly minty flavor that brightens up the turkey.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a touch of color to the finished turkey.
  • Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors—don’t skimp!
  • Chicken or Turkey Broth: Keeps everything moist in the crockpot while adding savory undertones.
  • Onion (quartered): Sweetens and perfumes the turkey, melting into a fragrant bed for cooking.
  • Celery (chunked): Offers classic holiday flavor and helps create a flavorful base for the broth.
  • Carrots (chunked): Add a pop of color and sweetness, perfect for rounding out the aroma and taste.

How to Make Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Turkey and Herbs

Start by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This little trick ensures the outside gets beautifully browned, not soggy. In a small bowl, mix together your olive oil or melted butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper—this herby, savory paste is what gives the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe its signature flavor.

Step 2: Season Every Nook and Cranny

Slather that aromatic mixture all over your turkey breast. For maximum flavor, make sure to carefully loosen the skin (if there’s any) and rub some seasoning underneath, so every bite is just as delicious as the last.

Step 3: Veggie Bed

Arrange the quartered onion, chunky celery, and carrots in the bottom of your slow cooker. These vegetables form a cozy bed that not only flavors the turkey, but also makes the meat even juicier. Pour the chicken or turkey broth all around, which will help keep everything moist and flavorful as it cooks.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Place the seasoned turkey breast, skin side up, right on top of your veggie bed. Cover and let the crockpot work its magic—cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the thickest part of the turkey registers 165°F. Your kitchen is going to smell incredible!

Step 5: Crisp the Skin

For that showstopping finish, carefully transfer the cooked turkey breast onto a baking sheet and slide it under a preheated oven broiler for 4–5 minutes. Watch closely! The skin turns deliciously golden and crisp, making the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe feel extra special.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once your turkey breast is crisp and gorgeous, let it rest for 10 minutes so the juices stay locked in. Then slice and arrange on a platter for a presentation worthy of any feast—enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe

Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle your sliced turkey with additional fresh rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and aroma, or add a little lemon zest for a lively finish. A swirl of the cooking juices right over the top keeps everything moist and extra-flavorful.

Side Dishes

This Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or even a tangy cranberry sauce. Don’t forget some garlicky green beans or a crisp fall salad—the possibilities are endless and all delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, fan slices on a platter lined with roasted vegetables for a burst of color. Stack the turkey atop a bed of wild rice for a stunning centerpiece, or serve leftovers piled high on toasted crusty bread with a dollop of herbed mayo for the world’s best turkey sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once everyone’s had seconds, place any leftover turkey in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours—this helps keep it moist and safe to eat for up to four days. Slice before storing for easy sandwiches or salads later.

Freezing

The Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Let leftovers cool completely, wrap them well, and store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep sliced turkey juicy, add a splash of broth and gently reheat in the microwave or a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through. For best texture, reheat only what you’ll eat to keep the rest as fresh as possible.

FAQs

Can I use a frozen turkey breast for this recipe?

It’s best to fully thaw your turkey breast before cooking to ensure even, safe cooking. If you’re in a pinch, allow extra time in the slow cooker and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I add other vegetables to the crockpot?

Absolutely! Feel free to add potatoes, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes for extra texture and flavor. Just make sure they’re cut into chunks so they cook evenly under your turkey.

Is it possible to make gravy from the crockpot drippings?

Yes, the delicious pan juices are perfect for gravy! Strain the vegetables, then simmer the drippings in a saucepan with a little cornstarch or flour to thicken for a rich, savory sauce.

Can I use boneless turkey breast instead of bone-in?

You sure can—the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe works with either type. Boneless turkey cooks a bit faster and is easier to slice, while bone-in can be even juicier and more flavorful.

Why is it important to broil at the end?

The quick broil gives the skin that gorgeous golden color and satisfying crunch that you just can’t get in a slow cooker alone. It’s the finishing touch that makes this dish extra special!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a stress-free holiday, the Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe is a total game-changer. It delivers big on flavor with minimal effort, and the leftovers are almost as exciting as the main event. Give it a try, and get ready for a new turkey tradition in your home!

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Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe

Crockpot Turkey Breast Recipe


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4.8 from 28 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is a hassle-free way to cook a moist and flavorful turkey dish. With aromatic herbs and vegetables, the turkey turns out tender and juicy every time. Perfect for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Turkey Breast:

  • 1 (4 to 6-pound) bone-in or boneless turkey breast (thawed)

Seasoning Mix:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Additional:

  • 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 onion (quartered)
  • 2 celery stalks (cut into chunks)
  • 2 carrots (cut into chunks)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
  2. Season Turkey: Mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture over turkey.
  3. Assemble Crockpot: Place onion, celery, and carrots in the crockpot. Pour broth over vegetables. Add seasoned turkey on top.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Crisp Skin: For crispy skin, broil turkey for 4–5 minutes after cooking.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Leftovers are versatile for sandwiches, salads, or soups.
  • Enhance broth with a splash of white wine for added flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 ounces
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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