Slow Cooker Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast is a simple, stress-free way to enjoy a tender, juicy turkey dinner any time of year. Perfect for small holiday gatherings or weeknight meals, this recipe yields flavorful turkey with minimal prep and no need to heat up your oven. Let the crockpot do all the work while you enjoy a perfectly cooked main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This turkey breast turns out moist, well-seasoned, and fall-apart tender thanks to low and slow cooking in the crockpot. It’s a great solution when you don’t want to cook a whole bird, and it’s especially handy for smaller households or those looking for easy meal prep. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with traditional sides, slice it for sandwiches, or shred it for soups and casseroles.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless skinless turkey breast
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Garlic, minced
- Onion powder
- Dried thyme
- Dried rosemary
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Chicken or turkey broth
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
directions
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil or melted butter with garlic, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper to form a paste.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker.
- Pour broth into the bottom of the crockpot to keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Optional: For crispy edges, broil the turkey for 5 minutes after slow cooking.
Servings and timing
Serves 6–8 people, depending on the size of the turkey breast.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours on low
Total time: About 6.5–7.5 hours
Variations
- Herb-Butter Coating: Use herb-infused butter instead of oil for extra richness.
- Citrus Flavor: Add lemon zest or orange slices to the crockpot for a bright twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Gravy Base: Use the cooking liquid to make a quick homemade gravy.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
To freeze, slice or shred the turkey and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
No, it’s recommended to fully thaw the turkey breast before slow cooking for food safety.
Do I need to sear the turkey first?
It’s not necessary, but searing can add extra flavor and color. It’s optional.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer—when it reaches 165°F at the thickest part, it’s done.
Can I use a bone-in turkey breast?
Yes, just ensure it fits in your slow cooker and adjust the cooking time as needed (may take a bit longer).
What size turkey breast fits in a standard crockpot?
Most 3–4 pound boneless turkey breasts fit easily in a 6-quart slow cooker.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Yes, you can add carrots, onions, and potatoes around the turkey for a one-pot meal.
How do I make gravy from the drippings?
Strain the cooking liquid, simmer it in a saucepan, and whisk in a cornstarch slurry until thickened.
Does the skin get crispy in the slow cooker?
No, but you can broil the turkey breast for a few minutes after slow cooking to crisp it up.
Can I cook it on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 3–4 hours, but low is recommended for the most tender result.
What should I serve with this turkey breast?
Serve it with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, or your favorite roasted veggies.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast is a fuss-free way to enjoy a delicious turkey dinner without the hassle of a full roast. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a relaxed holiday meal or an easy weeknight dinner. Just season, set it, and let your slow cooker do the magic.
Slow Cooker Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This slow cooker boneless turkey breast is juicy, tender, and full of flavor. It’s the easiest way to cook turkey without the stress—just season, set it, and forget it! Perfect for small holiday gatherings or a simple, comforting meal any time of year.
Ingredients
-
1 (3-4 lb) boneless skinless turkey breast (thawed if frozen)
-
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon onion powder
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
-
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
-
1/2 teaspoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
-
1/2 cup chicken broth
-
Optional: Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary sprigs) for extra flavor
Instructions
-
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
-
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil (or melted butter) with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
-
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast.
-
Place the turkey in the slow cooker and pour chicken broth into the bottom of the crock. Add fresh herbs if using.
-
Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
-
Remove the turkey, let rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
-
Optional: Broil for 3–5 minutes after slow cooking to crisp up the top.
Notes
-
For extra moisture, baste the turkey with juices once or twice during cooking.
-
To make a quick gravy, strain the juices and simmer with a cornstarch slurry until thickened.
-
Leftovers make great sandwiches or turkey salad!
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *