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Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
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This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, juicy, and flavorful turkey with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days or special occasions, slow cooking locks in moisture and infuses the meat with savory herbs and aromatic ingredients. Ideal for family dinners, holiday meals, or versatile enough to use in sandwiches and salads.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 fresh skin-on bone-in turkey breast (about 3–4 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 lemon, sliced or zested
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium onion, roughly chopped

Optional Variations

  • Chili flakes or cayenne pepper, to taste (for a spicy twist)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika and 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for an herb-free version)
  • Replace lemon slices with orange slices (for a citrus infusion)
  • Carrots, celery, and potatoes, chopped (for a vegetable medley)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure olive oil and seasonings adhere well. Rub the breast all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, crushed garlic, and the fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, and sage) or your chosen variation.
  2. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the turkey breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step enhances flavor and creates a caramelized crust but can be skipped if short on time.
  3. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the roughly chopped onion and lemon slices on the bottom of the slow cooker to form a fragrant base. Lay the seasoned turkey breast on top, then pour the chicken broth around it to maintain moisture during cooking.
  4. Slow Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours depending on the size of your turkey breast and slow cooker specifics. The gentle heat breaks down meat fibers, ensuring a juicy and tender result. Use a meat thermometer to verify an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the turkey breast and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Resting redistributes the juices throughout the meat, preventing dryness and making slicing easier.

Notes

  • Pat the turkey dry before seasoning to encourage better browning.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Allow the turkey to rest after cooking to lock in moisture.
  • Choosing bone-in turkey breast helps retain more moisture and flavor.
  • Keep the slow cooker lid closed during cooking to maintain consistent temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, tender turkey, juicy turkey, easy turkey recipe, gluten free turkey, holiday turkey, family dinner turkey

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/slow-cooker-turkey-breast/