Slow Cooker Turkey Breast


When it comes to succulent, mouthwatering turkey, most people think of Thanksgiving. However, there’s no need to limit your turkey cravings to just one day a year. With a slow cooker, you can enjoy the rich flavors of turkey any time you want. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to prepare a Slow Cooker Turkey Breast that’s so tender, it practically melts in your mouth.

Ingredients:

For a 4-6 Pound Turkey Breast

  • 1 bone-in turkey breast (4-6 pounds)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4-5 sprigs of fresh thyme
  • 4-5 sprigs of fresh rosemary

Optional Gravy:

  • Drippings from the slow cooker
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried sage.
  2. Prepare the Turkey: Place the turkey breast on a cutting board and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the surface.
  3. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and fresh rosemary in the bottom of your slow cooker. These aromatic ingredients will infuse your turkey with incredible flavor.
  4. Add the Turkey: Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the onion and herb bed.
  5. Pour in the Broth: Gently pour the chicken broth around the turkey breast. This will help keep the turkey moist during the slow cooking process.
  6. Set and Forget: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. You can also cook it on high for 3-4 hours if you’re in a hurry.
  7. Check the Temperature: Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  8. Make the Gravy (Optional): If you want to make gravy, transfer the drippings from the slow cooker to a saucepan. Mix the flour and water in a separate bowl to create a smooth paste, then whisk it into the drippings. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Slice and Serve: Once the turkey is cooked to perfection, remove it from the slow cooker, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into juicy, tender pieces.

Tips:

  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your turkey is cooked to perfection, invest in a good-quality meat thermometer. It’s the best way to avoid overcooking and drying out your turkey.
  • Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for some heat or a dash of paprika for a smoky flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Make sure there’s enough space around the turkey breast in the slow cooker. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
  • Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, add some root vegetables like carrots and potatoes to the slow cooker.
  • Baste for Extra Flavor: If you have the time, baste the turkey breast with the cooking juices every hour for even more flavor.

Variation: Cranberry Glazed Turkey Breast

For a festive twist on this classic slow cooker turkey breast, try a cranberry glaze. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of cranberry sauce, 1/4 cup of orange juice, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon. Simmer until it thickens, then brush it over the turkey breast during the last hour of cooking for a sweet and tangy finish.

 

In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is a game-changer. It brings the delightful flavors of Thanksgiving to your table year-round, with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a tender, juicy turkey that’s perfect for family dinners or even a casual get-together with friends. Plus, with the option to add a cranberry glaze, you can easily customize this dish to suit any occasion. So, fire up your slow cooker and savor the simplicity of this incredible turkey recipe. Your taste buds will thank you.