When you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free way to prepare turkey, the slow cooker emerges as one of the best options. Cooking a turkey breast in a slow cooker not only saves you time but also locks in flavors, ensuring each bite is moist and tender. This recipe guides you through creating a succulent slow-cooked turkey breast that can impress family and friends.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. You’ll appreciate how effortless it is to put together, requiring minimal active time. The slow cooking method ensures that the turkey remains juicy, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who struggles with dry turkey. Moreover, you can infuse your turkey with aromatic herbs, enhancing its flavor profile while complementing any sides you choose to serve it with. Plus, it’s a great way to have leftovers for sandwiches or salads throughout the week!
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Here is a simple list of the ingredients you will need to create this mouthwatering dish.
- 1 turkey breast (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or sage) for flavor
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Directions
Creating a delicious Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is both simple and enjoyable. Start by prepping your turkey, which is an essential step for ensuring maximum flavor. First, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better and promotes a nice finished texture.
Next, drizzle the olive oil over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly. This step is crucial as it adds a layer of richness and depth of flavor. Now, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the turkey breast. Be generous with the seasonings to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
After seasoning, it’s time to prepare your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker; this will keep the turkey moist throughout the cooking process. Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker, ensuring that it sits snugly in the broth. Top your turkey with fresh herbs, which will infuse additional flavor during the cooking.
Now, cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set your cooker to low and allow it to work its magic for 6 to 8 hours. The slow, gentle heat will cook the turkey evenly, and you’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once it’s cooked to perfection, take the turkey out and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This step is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.
Serve your slow-cooked turkey breast with your choice of sides for a delightful meal that everyone will love.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, the possibilities are nearly endless. You can carve the turkey into thin slices for a classic presentation. Pair it with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. If you’re enjoying this turkey as part of a holiday feast, consider serving it alongside stuffing or cranberry sauce to elevate the festive flavors.
For a weeknight meal, you might enjoy it with simple sides like steamed broccoli or a quinoa salad for a nutritious, balanced dinner. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the flavorful broth over the turkey slices or use it to make a delicious gravy! The juicy turkey, along with the rich broth, makes for an appealing dish that is sure to satisfy.
If you have leftovers, consider making various dishes such as turkey sandwiches, wraps, or salads, giving you a range of meals throughout the week.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
To make the most out of your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, here are a few expert tips:
- Select a high-quality turkey breast: If possible, opt for a fresh turkey breast rather than a frozen one, as it is typically more flavorful and tender.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your turkey is cooked perfectly, invest in a reliable meat thermometer. This tool will give you peace of mind about the turkey’s internal temperature.
- Don’t lift the lid too often: While it’s tempting to check on your turkey, lifting the lid can let out heat and steam, prolonging the cooking time.
- Experiment with herbs: Beyond rosemary and thyme, consider adding herbs like sage or even citrus zest for a unique twist on flavor.
- Sear for additional flavor: If you have a bit more time, consider searing the turkey breast in a pan before placing it in the slow cooker. This extra step can add a delightful depth of flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Properly storing your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is key to maximizing its shelf life. Once the turkey has cooled, slice any leftovers and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep your turkey fresh for up to 3-4 days.
If you find yourself with a lot of leftovers, consider freezing portions of the cooked turkey for future meals. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen turkey can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation of Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
While this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is undoubtedly delicious as is, there are several ways to mix it up. Here are some variations you might consider:
- Flavorful marinades: Try marinating the turkey breast overnight in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. This addition can deepen the flavors significantly.
- Citrus notes: Add slices of orange, lemon, or lime to the slow cooker along with the turkey for a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs well with the savory profile.
- Stuffed turkey breast: For a heartier option, consider stuffing the turkey breast before cooking. A simple bread stuffing with herbs and broth can create a delightful surprise with each slice.
- Spicy kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper onto the turkey before cooking to give it an extra punch.
- Rich gravies: Instead of just broth, you can use stock that includes additional flavors such as mushrooms or herbs to enhance the sauce that gathers in the slow cooker.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook a Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
Cooking a turkey breast in a slow cooker typically takes around 6 to 8 hours on low. Always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker?
It is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey breast directly in a slow cooker because it can take too long for the meat to reach safe temperatures, which may promote bacterial growth.
Should I add water to the slow cooker for turkey breast?
For this recipe, you will add chicken broth, which enhances the flavor. Adding broth instead of water will keep your turkey moist and infuse it with more taste.
Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary or thyme?
Absolutely! Feel free to try herbs such as sage, parsley, or even a blend of herbes de Provence to match your flavor preferences.
What can I do with leftover turkey?
Leftover turkey can be used in salads, sandwiches, wraps, or soups. You can also freeze it for future meals to enjoy later.
With this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe, you can enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with ease, leaving you free to spend more time with family and friends.
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 piece Turkey breast (about 4-5 pounds) Select a high-quality, fresh turkey breast for best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil To coat the turkey breast.
- 2 teaspoons Garlic powder For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Salt To enhance flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper To add a bit of spice.
- 1 cup Chicken broth Keeps the turkey moist during cooking.
- to taste Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or sage) Used to flavor the turkey.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure seasonings stick better.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey breast, coating it evenly.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper generously over the turkey breast.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast snugly into the broth and top with fresh herbs.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low.
- Cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the turkey and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
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