why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish without much hassle. Using a slow cooker allows the turkey to cook slowly, making it incredibly tender and juicy. It’s perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals, and is a great alternative to a whole turkey. Plus, it requires minimal prep time!
how to make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients:
- 5-7 pound bone-in turkey breast
- 4 tablespoons ghee or butter
- 1 tablespoon oil of your choice
- 3-4 sprigs fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 lemon or orange, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup water or broth (Instant Pot only)
Directions:
- Rinse and pat the turkey dry.
- Loosen the skin of the turkey breast.
- Place the ghee or butter under the skin of the turkey.
- Rub the oil all over the turkey.
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey.
- Add onion, lemon, and sprigs of fresh herbs to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the prepared turkey on top.
- Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours.
- For Instant Pot: Pour the water or broth into the Instant Pot and add the trivet.
- Add the onion, sliced lemon, and fresh herbs on top of the trivet.
- Place the prepared turkey breast on top of the trivet, breast side up. Make sure the internal temperature for the turkey breast reaches 165° Fahrenheit.
- When done, let the pressure cooker naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
how to serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Serve the turkey breast sliced with a side of your favorite vegetables or mashed potatoes. Adding a drizzle of the cooking juices enhances the flavor. You can also pair it with cranberry sauce or gravy for a festive touch.
how to store Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Let any leftover turkey cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it in individual portions for future meals, just make sure to wrap it tightly.
tips to make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
- For extra moisture, consider brining the turkey ahead of time.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure it is cooked perfectly.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste.
variation
If you want to add a sweet twist, consider using orange slices and adding a bit of honey to the seasoning. You can also try different types of oil, like olive oil or avocado oil, based on your preference.
FAQs
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
It is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey breast in a slow cooker, as it can take too long to reach a safe temperature.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165° Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check.
Can I make this recipe without bone-in turkey breast?
Yes, you can use boneless turkey breast; however, cooking times may vary, so check the internal temperature regularly.
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 each 5-7 pound bone-in turkey breast A whole turkey breast with bones for extra flavor.
- 4 tablespoons ghee or butter Used for added moisture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oil of your choice Choose your preferred cooking oil.
- 3-4 sprigs fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary Enhances flavor; can substitute with dried herbs.
- 1 small onion sliced Adds aromatic flavor to the dish.
- 1 each lemon or orange, sliced Provides citrus flavor; can vary based on preference.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs for added flavor.
- 2 teaspoons salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon pepper Freshly ground pepper preferred.
- 1 cup water or broth (Instant Pot only) Liquid for cooking in Instant Pot.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse and pat the turkey dry.
- Loosen the skin of the turkey breast.
- Place the ghee or butter under the skin of the turkey.
- Rub the oil all over the turkey.
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey.
- Add onion, lemon, and sprigs of fresh herbs to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the prepared turkey on top.
Cooking
- Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours.
- For Instant Pot: Pour the water or broth into the Instant Pot and add the trivet.
- Add the onion, sliced lemon, and fresh herbs on top of the trivet.
- Place the prepared turkey breast on top of the trivet, breast side up. Ensure the internal temperature for the turkey breast reaches 165° Fahrenheit.
- When done, let the pressure cooker naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
