Introduction to Crockpot Turkey Breast
The great struggle of Thanksgiving is how to cook all of that delicious holiday food with limited oven space. This Crockpot Turkey Breast is the answer to your problem! You can cook an absolutely delicious, super juicy turkey breast in the slow cooker with very minimal prep. This is the perfect recipe for a beginner. Turkey can be tricky because it can dry out quite quickly. This crock pot turkey is a set it and forget it recipe that is absolutely foolproof!
Benefits of the Recipe
You don’t just have to enjoy this recipe for the holidays. It is an excellent recipe to use for meal prep. You can use this turkey in place of chicken for various dishes, such as casseroles or soups.
Ingredients for Crockpot Turkey
To make this delicious Crockpot Turkey Breast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4-7 pound turkey breast (boneless or bone in)
- 5 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon each fresh sage, thyme, rosemary (finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon each paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper
- Chicken broth
How to Cook Turkey Breast in a Crockpot
To cook the turkey breast, follow these steps:
- Combine the softened butter with the garlic, fresh, finely chopped herbs, zest, and spices. Set aside.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with a paper towel. Carefully separate the skin from the turkey and rub part of the herb butter under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the top of the turkey breast.
- Place the turkey breast in a 6-8 quart slow cooker. Add 3/4 cup chicken broth to the slow cooker. Do not pour directly on the turkey or you will rinse off the butter mixture.
- Cook the turkey breast on low 6 hours for a 4-5 pound turkey breast. Cook for 8 hours for a 6-8 pound turkey breast. Check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the turkey breast. Cook the turkey breast on low 6 hours for a 4-5 pound turkey breast. Cook for 8 hours for a 6-8 pound turkey breast. Check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Bone-in or Boneless Turkey
This recipe will work for a bone-in or boneless turkey. There are merits to both options. Some people think bone-in meat has better flavor. However, a boneless turkey breast is easier to cut and usually makes a prettier presentation. A bone-in turkey will take a little longer to cook. Use a meat thermometer and when it registers a temperature of 165 degrees F it has finished cooking.
Brining the Turkey Breast
Brining is a process that uses salt water to flavor the meat from the inside out. This process not only adds flavor, but helps prevent the meat from drying out as it cooks. Often times brines add other elements such as sugar, citrus, or herbs. For this recipe, you do not need to brine the turkey breast. This slow cooking method ensures a perfectly juicy turkey every single time.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Turkey
To get the best results, keep the following tips in mind:
- Type of Breast: Skin on turkey breast is recommended because it encases the butter and it cooks right into the meat. However, if you don’t want to use skin on turkey breast this recipe will still work.
- Size of Slow Cooker: Be sure to use a slow cooker that is right for your turkey breast. You want to make sure there is a little room on each side of the breast and that the lid doesn’t directly touch the turkey. This ensures that the outside of the turkey isn’t overdone and dried out before the center is done.
- Thaw: You will want to start with a thawed turkey breast. Be sure you allow time to thaw before you begin.
- Crisp: if you want to crisp the skin just slide it under a broiler in the oven before serving. Watch carefully and remove when it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (6 ounces):
- Calories: 287 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0.7 g
- Protein: 33.3 g
- Fat: 16.7 g
- Cholesterol: 126 mg
- Sodium: 172 mg
- Fiber: 0.2 g
