Perfectly Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast: An Easy Crockpot Recipe for Tender Results Every Time
Discover the ultimate, fool-proof method to prepare an incredibly tender and juicy turkey breast right in your crockpot! This recipe guarantees consistently delicious results, making it ideal for any occasion, from intimate family dinners to holiday feasts.
Why This Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe Is a Must-Try
This crockpot turkey breast recipe stands out as a true game-changer, especially for those times when a whole roasted turkey feels like too much effort or too large for your gathering. Whether you’re planning a smaller Thanksgiving dinner, a cozy holiday meal, or simply seeking an effortless weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Its simplicity is unmatched: a quick rub with aromatic spices and seasonings, a comforting bed of vegetables, and then the magic of slow cooking for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. It’s a “set it and forget it” approach that minimizes stress and maximizes flavor, making it nearly impossible to mess up!
The slow cooker method is, without a doubt, the secret to achieving the juiciest turkey breast imaginable. Unlike oven roasting, which can often dry out the delicate meat, the slow cooker excels at locking in moisture. The sealed environment of the crockpot prevents steam from escaping, ensuring that all the natural juices and added liquids circulate constantly, infusing every fiber of the turkey with incredible tenderness and flavor. This consistent, low-and-slow cooking process breaks down the turkey’s connective tissues gently, resulting in a succulent texture that simply melts in your mouth.
But the goodness doesn’t stop there! This recipe also guides you through crafting a simple yet incredibly flavorful pan gravy using the rich drippings collected in the crockpot. This homemade gravy, brimming with turkey essence and savory notes, is the perfect companion, ready to be poured generously over your tender turkey slices. It adds another layer of comfort and indulgence, elevating your meal from great to truly unforgettable. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this effortlessly delicious slow cooker turkey breast.
Essential Ingredients for Your Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards a perfectly cooked, tender turkey breast. For all precise measurements, detailed quantities, and comprehensive instructions, please refer to the convenient printable recipe card located at the very end of this blog post. This section provides a helpful overview of what you’ll need and offers valuable tips for selecting and preparing each component to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Ingredient Spotlight: Tips for Best Results and Smart Substitutions
TURKEY: The foundation of our succulent dish is the turkey breast itself. It is absolutely crucial to start with a completely thawed turkey breast. Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest and recommended method, allowing ample time for the meat to come to a proper temperature. For this recipe, we successfully used two 1.5-pound boneless turkey breasts, totaling 3 pounds. You can easily adapt this by using a single 3-pound turkey breast if that’s what’s available at your local grocery store. Keep in mind that a single, larger 3-pound breast might require a slightly longer cooking time, potentially up to 6 hours, compared to two smaller breasts. The actual cook time can also vary depending on the specific model and age of your slow cooker, so always treat the suggested times as a guide.
The most reliable way to ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked and safe to eat is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding any bones if using a bone-in cut. The turkey is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This temperature guarantees doneness without overcooking, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. You can also opt for bone-in turkey breast, but be prepared for potentially longer cooking times and ensure the thermometer isn’t touching the bone.
VEGETABLES (Onion, Carrots, Celery, Garlic): These humble vegetables serve multiple vital roles in this recipe. Firstly, they create a natural “rack” at the bottom of the slow cooker, lifting the turkey breast slightly and preventing it from sitting directly in the cooking liquid. This allows for more even heat distribution and helps prevent the bottom of the turkey from becoming soggy. Secondly, as the turkey slowly cooks, these aromatics infuse the drippings with a rich, savory depth of flavor that becomes the base for our incredible gravy. Feel free to use yellow or white onions. For carrots, cutting them thick ensures they don’t turn to mush during the long cooking process. If you’re looking for variations, leeks, parsnips, or even additional root vegetables like potatoes (cut larger) can be used to add different nuances of flavor to your bed of aromatics.
SEASONINGS (Dried Sage, Sea Salt, Ground Black Pepper): These classic seasonings are the cornerstone of traditional turkey flavor. Dried sage, with its earthy and slightly peppery notes, is a natural pairing for poultry. Sea salt is preferred for its pure taste and ability to enhance all other flavors, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick. Don’t hesitate to customize! You can substitute dried sage with a poultry seasoning blend, or add other complementary herbs like dried thyme, rosemary, or a touch of marjoram. Adjust salt and pepper to your personal preference, remembering that the gravy will also be seasoned later. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to your rub.
UNSALTED BUTTER: Melted unsalted butter is crucial for creating a rich, flavorful crust on the turkey breast and helping the seasonings adhere beautifully. As it cooks, the butter contributes to the overall moisture of the meat and aids in achieving that desired golden-brown finish once the turkey is broiled. Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the total sodium content of the dish. If you only have salted butter, you may want to slightly reduce the amount of added sea salt in the seasoning blend.
GRAVY INGREDIENTS (Low Sodium Chicken Stock, Apple Cider, All-Purpose Flour): The magic of the gravy comes from combining the concentrated turkey drippings with these additional liquids and a thickening agent. Low sodium chicken stock provides a savory base without making the gravy overly salty, giving you room to season to taste. Apple cider adds a subtle sweetness and a tangy brightness that beautifully complements the rich turkey flavor, lifting the entire gravy profile. If apple cider isn’t available or preferred, you can substitute it with more chicken stock or even a dry white wine for a different flavor dimension. All-purpose flour acts as a thickener, creating a smooth, luscious gravy. For a gluten-free alternative, a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) can be used, added at the end once the gravy has come to a boil, and whisked until thickened.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Turkey Breast
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of preparing this delicious recipe. For a complete printable version, including all precise measurements and comprehensive instructions, simply jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Begin by preparing your slow cooker. Lightly grease the bottom of a 6-7 quart crock pot. Arrange the chopped vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and garlic) in a single, even layer at the bottom. This creates a natural rack for the turkey and adds incredible flavor to the drippings.
- Pat the thawed turkey breast(s) thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for helping the seasoning stick and for achieving better browning later. Set the dried turkey aside.
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in all the dried seasonings (sage, sea salt, and ground black pepper) until well combined. This creates a rich, aromatic basting mixture.
- Generously baste each turkey breast on both sides with the melted seasoned butter. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor. Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast(s) on top of the bed of vegetables in the crock pot.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to the low heat setting. Allow the turkey to cook for 3.5-4 hours. The precise cooking time will depend on your slow cooker and the size of your turkey breast. To confirm doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Begin checking for doneness around the 3 to 3.5-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
- Once the turkey is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot and transfer it to a baking sheet. Allow the turkey to rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. While the turkey rests, make sure to reserve all the delicious drippings from the crock pot – these are essential for making your gravy.
- While the turkey is resting, it’s time to prepare your homemade gravy. Pour the reserved turkey drippings from the crockpot into a medium pot. Add the chicken stock and apple cider to the pot. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium to medium-high heat.
- Maintain a steady boil, whisking occasionally, until the liquid has reduced by approximately half. This reduction process concentrates the flavors and usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Once the liquid has reduced, gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour until no lumps remain and the mixture is smooth. Continue to boil and whisk periodically for about 5-10 minutes, or until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. The flour will thicken the mixture beautifully.
- Taste the gravy and season with additional salt and pepper as needed to perfect the flavor profile.
- While the gravy finishes, position an oven rack in the middle section of your oven and preheat to broil. Transfer the rested turkey breast(s) to the oven and broil for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until the skin crisps up and turns golden brown to your liking. Keep a close eye on it, as broilers can vary in intensity and burn quickly.
- Slice the broiled turkey breast and serve immediately, generously smothered with your homemade pan gravy. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Crockpot Turkey Breast
The most accurate way to determine if your turkey breast is safely cooked is by checking its internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The thickest part of the turkey breast should register 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that the turkey is safe to eat while remaining wonderfully juicy. Avoid overcooking, as this is the primary reason turkey becomes dry. Always insert the thermometer into the deepest part of the meat, being careful not to touch any bones if your turkey breast is bone-in, as bones heat faster than meat.
Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious leftovers. Once the turkey breast has cooled to room temperature (within two hours of cooking), transfer it to an airtight container. You can slice it before storing or keep it as a whole breast, depending on your intended use. Store the turkey in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. If you’ve made gravy, store it separately in its own airtight container.
Reheating turkey can be tricky, as it tends to dry out easily. To maintain its moisture and tenderness, we recommend reheating your turkey breast using a “low and slow” approach. You can gently warm it in your slow cooker set to a low setting, adding a splash of chicken broth or gravy to keep it moist. Alternatively, reheat it in a 300°F (150°C) oven until it is warmed through, again, adding a bit of liquid and covering it loosely with foil. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to zap the moisture out of turkey, leaving it dry and unappetizing. A gentle reheat ensures it tastes just as good as the first time!
No, it is essential to use a completely thawed turkey breast for this slow cooker recipe. Cooking frozen meat in a slow cooker can be unsafe because the meat spends too much time in the “danger zone” (between 40°F and 140°F), where harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly. Always ensure your turkey breast is fully thawed in the refrigerator before placing it in the slow cooker.
Slow cookers are fantastic for achieving tender, moist meat, but they aren’t designed to crisp up skin. The best way to get that desirable golden, crispy skin on your turkey breast is to finish it under the broiler in your oven. After the turkey is cooked through in the slow cooker and has rested, place it on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the skin reaches your preferred crispiness. Watch it carefully, as broiler temperatures can vary and skin can burn quickly.
If apple cider isn’t readily available, you have a few excellent substitution options for your gravy. You can simply use additional low-sodium chicken stock to maintain a savory profile. Alternatively, a dry white wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio) can add a lovely depth and acidity, or even a small amount of apple juice (for sweetness) mixed with a splash of apple cider vinegar (for tang) can work in a pinch. Adjust to taste.
Delicious Serving Ideas for Crockpot Turkey Breast
This crockpot turkey breast is incredibly versatile and makes a show-stopping centerpiece for any meal. It’s particularly a staple for Thanksgiving and other holiday celebrations. The beauty of cooking your turkey breast in the slow cooker means your oven is freed up for all those delicious holiday sides like sweet potato casserole, crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, and fluffy homemade biscuits! Serve it alongside other classic Thanksgiving accompaniments such as savory green bean casserole, creamy mashed potatoes, sweet corn casserole, cranberry sauce, and a hearty stuffing. The possibilities for a festive spread are truly endless.
Beyond the holidays, this tender turkey breast also shines as an everyday dinner option. Pair it with simple roasted or sautéed vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice for a satisfying and healthy meal. For a lighter touch, a fresh side salad with a vibrant vinaigrette would complement it perfectly. The generous servings often mean you’ll have delicious leftovers, which are fantastic for transforming into new meals. Slice the turkey thin and add it to crisp salads, hearty soups, flavorful wraps, or create comforting dishes like turkey tetrazzini, turkey sandwiches with cranberry sauce, or even a quick turkey hash. Its moist texture ensures that leftovers remain enjoyable and versatile for various culinary creations throughout the week.
More Delightful Turkey & Poultry Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this easy crockpot turkey breast, be sure to explore more of our fantastic turkey and poultry-inspired recipes:
- Creamy Turkey Carbonara
- Hearty Turkey Pot Pie
- Classic Homemade Turkey Gravy
- Savory Turkey Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
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Crockpot Turkey Breast
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 onion skin on, cut in half
- 4 carrots peel on, cut thick
- 4 ribs celery cut in half
- 4-6 cloves garlic
- 3 pounds boneless turkey breast thawed
- 3.5 Tablespoons dried sage
- 1 ½ Tablespoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
Gravy
- 2 cups low sodium chicken stock
- ½ cup apple cider
- 2 Tablespoons all purpose flour
Things You’ll Need
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6 qt Crockpot 6-7 quart
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Saucepan
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Instant read thermometer
Before You Begin
- It’s important to use completely thawed turkey breast for this recipe. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator.
- We used two 1.5-pound turkey breasts, totaling 3 pounds. You can use two 1.5-pound breasts or a single 3-pound breast here depending on what you can find at the store. A single 3-pound breast may take up to 6 hours to cook as opposed to two 1.5-pound breasts. The cook time will also depend on the model and age of your slow cooker. The best way to check for doneness is with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the breast. It’s ready to go when it reaches 165F.
Instructions
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Place the vegetables in the bottom of a lightly greased crock pot to make a full layer.
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Pat the turkey breast dry and set aside.
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Melt the butter and mix in the seasonings. Baste each breast on both sides, then place in the crock pot on top of the vegetables.
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Set crock pot to low and cook for 3.5-4 hours or when an instant read thermometer reaches 165F when inserted into the thickest part of the breast. Check for doneness around 3-3.5 hours.
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Once cooked through, remove the turkey and allow to rest on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes before broiling the skin (reserve the juices from the crock pot for later).
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While the turkey is resting, make your gravy by adding chicken stock and apple cider to a medium pot. Bring to a boil over medium to medium-high heat.
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Keep a boil going, whisking as needed, until the mixture has reduced by about half (about 10 minutes).
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Add in the all-purpose flour, and whisk until there are no lumps. Then, pour the mixture into the crock pot juices. Keep at a boil and whisk periodically until the desired thickness is reached (about 5-10 minutes).
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Season with any salt and pepper as desired.
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Position the oven rack to the middle section and preheat to broil. Allow the skin to crisp up to your preference (about 3-5 minutes).
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Serve with gravy.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Store any leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat your turkey breast in the slow cooker set to low or in a 300F oven until warmed through. You don’t want to zap turkey in the microwave as it tends to dry it out – low and slow is the way to go!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.