Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast : cooking a turkey breast can seem intimidating, especially if you are hosting a family dinner or a small holiday gathering. But don’t worry! This slow cooker turkey breast recipe makes it very simple to prepare a delicious meal. With the help of a slow cooker, you can enjoy juicy, tender turkey without needing to babysit the oven or stove. Let’s dive into why you will love this recipe.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This slow cooker turkey breast is not only easy to make, but it is also full of flavor. Here are some reasons why this recipe should be on your dinner table:
- Simplicity: You just need to mix a few ingredients, add them to the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
- Juicy and Tender: Slow cooking helps the turkey retain moisture, resulting in a juicy and tender dish. No one wants dry turkey!
- Herb-infused flavor: Using fresh herbs and spices means your turkey will be packed with flavor. Your guests will be asking for the recipe!
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a small holiday gathering, this turkey breast works for any occasion.
- Easy to clean up: Cooking in a slow cooker means fewer pots and pans to wash after dinner!
Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s look at how to prepare this delicious slow cooker turkey breast.
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need for this recipe:
- 1 bone-in turkey breast (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth (or turkey broth)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Now, let’s go through the steps to prepare your slow cooker turkey breast.
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Start by rinsing the turkey breast under cold water. Pat it dry using paper towels. This removes any excess moisture.
- Season the Turkey:
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This will be your seasoning mix.
- Rub the olive oil over the skin of the turkey breast. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over the turkey, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Set Up Your Slow Cooker:
- Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. This adds flavor and helps the turkey stay moist.
- Place the Turkey in the Slow Cooker:
- Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker, skin side up. The broth will help to keep it juicy during cooking.
- Cook the Turkey:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- Rest the Turkey:
- Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and allow the turkey to rest for about 20-30 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it extra tender.
- Carve and Serve:
- Use a sharp knife to carve the turkey breast into slices. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
After you’ve carved your turkey, it’s time for the best part: serving! Here are some tasty ideas on how to serve your turkey breast:
- Classic Dinner Plate: Serve slices of turkey breast with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
- Turkey Sandwiches: Use leftover turkey to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite bread, lettuce, and tomato.
- Tacos: Shred some of the turkey and serve it in soft tortillas with toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a fun twist.
- Turkey Salad: Combine sliced turkey with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of dressing for a light meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Storing leftovers is easy with this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Refrigerate: Place leftover turkey in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: If you won’t eat the leftovers within a few days, you can freeze the turkey. Make sure to freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To enjoy leftover turkey, simply reheat in the microwave or in the oven. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Tips for Preparing Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
To make your turkey breast the best it can be, consider these useful tips:
- Choose the Right Size: Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the turkey breast. A 4-5 pound turkey will usually fit, but measure your slow cooker just to be sure.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that your turkey is cooked perfectly, it’s best to use a meat thermometer. This way, you can avoid undercooking or overcooking.
- Add Vegetables: For extra flavor, consider placing veggies such as carrots, onions, and potatoes around the turkey in the slow cooker.
- Don’t Lift the Lid: Try to avoid opening the lid during cooking. Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes, which increases cooking time.
- Rest the Turkey: Remember to let your turkey rest after cooking. This is when it becomes the most tender.
Variation
While this slow cooker turkey breast recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the seasoning mix for a touch of sweetness.
- Citrus Flavored: Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice over the turkey before cooking for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a subtle smoky taste that elevates the turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
It is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker as it may not reach a safe temperature quickly enough, which can lead to foodborne illness. It’s best to thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator before cooking it.
2. How do I know when the turkey breast is done?
The best way to check if your turkey breast is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
3. Can I use turkey breast without the bone?
Yes, you can use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe. The cooking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on it and check the temperature earlier.
With this slow cooker turkey breast recipe, you’re set for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy. Now you can gather your family around the dinner table and enjoy a dish that is both simple and satisfying! Happy cooking!
