Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Introduction

Preparing a turkey for Thanksgiving can often feel like a daunting task. There are many steps involved, from seasoning to roasting and carving. But this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe completely simplifies the process, offering a quick and effortless way to cook a juicy, flavorful turkey breast. I recently made this recipe for a family gathering, and it was a huge success! The turkey turned out incredibly tender, with a deliciously seasoned crust, all thanks to the slow cooking process. It required very little hands-on time, allowing me to focus on other dishes. The convenience of the slow cooker and the delicious results make this an ideal recipe for any holiday meal or even a weeknight dinner. The turkey was perfectly cooked, and the skin was wonderfully crispy after a quick broil at the end. It was easy, fuss-free, and incredibly flavorful—definitely a keeper!

Ingredients

• 1 (6 to 7-lb) bone-in turkey breast, thawed
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp seasoned salt
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey:
   Start by brushing the turkey breast with olive oil. This helps the seasonings adhere and adds a nice sheen to the cooked skin.
2. Season the Turkey:
   In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, seasoned salt, paprika, Italian seasoning, pepper, and onion powder. Rub this seasoning mixture generously over the entire turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Cook in the Slow Cooker:
   Place the seasoned turkey breast, breast side up, into a 6-quart slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. You know the turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 170ºF, and the juices run clear.
4. Optional: Crisp the Skin:
   If you prefer crispy skin, transfer the cooked turkey breast to a baking pan and pop it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning. The broiling step adds a beautiful golden-brown crispness to the skin.
5. Serve:
   Once the turkey is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 250
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours
• Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve

• With Mashed Potatoes: Serve this turkey breast with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic holiday meal. The turkey’s savory juices make the perfect topping.
• With Gravy: Make a simple turkey gravy by using the drippings from the slow cooker. Serve it alongside the turkey for an extra layer of flavor.
• On a Sandwich: Slice the leftover turkey and use it for sandwiches or wraps. Add cranberry sauce or stuffing for a Thanksgiving-inspired bite.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the turkey with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
• In a Salad: Add slices of turkey to a fresh salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a lighter meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature. The turkey breast should reach 170ºF to be fully cooked.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: If you’re cooking a turkey breast larger than 7 lbs, make sure your slow cooker can accommodate it. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
3. Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you love crispy skin, don’t skip the broiling step! It’s a quick way to add a beautiful golden-brown crust.
4. Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more herbs, try Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick, or use lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
5. Rest the Meat: After cooking, let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Recipe Variations

• Herb-Infused Turkey: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the slow cooker for a more aromatic flavor. You can either place the herbs on top of the turkey or stuff them under the skin.
• Cajun Turkey Breast: For a spicier version, use Cajun seasoning instead of the Italian seasoning. You can also add a little cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Garlic Butter Turkey Breast: Mix softened butter with garlic, parsley, and lemon zest, then rub it under the skin of the turkey before cooking. This will give the turkey an extra rich and flavorful taste.
• Smoky Turkey Breast: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to give the turkey a smoky flavor. This pairs well with a tangy barbecue sauce.
• Sweet and Savory Turkey Breast: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the seasoning mix for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• For Thanksgiving: This slow cooker turkey breast is an excellent option for Thanksgiving. Serve with stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and green beans for a traditional spread.
• For Weeknight Dinners: This turkey breast is a quick and easy dinner option for busy nights. Pair it with simple sides like roasted potatoes or a side salad.
• For Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Use the leftover turkey for sandwiches, salads, or soups throughout the week.
• For Special Occasions: Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a family gathering, this turkey breast is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests.
• With Sides: Complement the turkey with classic sides like macaroni and cheese, mashed cauliflower, or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the turkey’s moisture, store the meat with some of the drippings.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked turkey breast for up to 3 months. Slice the turkey and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container with a little bit of the drippings to keep it moist. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the turkey slices in a pan with some turkey broth or water and heat on low to keep it from drying out.

FAQ Section

1. Can I cook the turkey breast from frozen?
   Yes, you can cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker, but it will take longer. Make sure to check the internal temperature and ensure it reaches 170ºF.
2. Can I use boneless turkey breast?
   Yes, you can use boneless turkey breast. The cooking time will be shorter, so adjust accordingly.
3. How do I know when the turkey is done?
   Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is fully cooked when it reaches 170ºF in the thickest part of the breast.
4. Can I use a different type of seasoning?
   Absolutely! You can use any seasoning combination you prefer, such as Cajun, lemon and rosemary, or a pre-made seasoning mix.
5. Do I need to baste the turkey while cooking?
   No, basting is not necessary with this slow cooker recipe. The turkey will cook in its own juices, keeping it moist.
6. Can I cook the turkey on HIGH?
   Yes, you can cook the turkey on HIGH for about 3-4 hours, but it may dry out slightly compared to the low setting.
7. Can I use a different cooking method?
   If you prefer, you can roast the turkey in the oven. For oven cooking, roast at 350ºF for about 1 ½ to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 170ºF.
8. Can I make gravy with the drippings?
   Yes, the drippings make a delicious base for gravy. Skim off excess fat and use the drippings to make a flavorful gravy.
9. Can I cook a smaller turkey breast?
   Yes, you can cook a smaller turkey breast. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, depending on the size.
10. How do I carve the turkey breast?
    To carve, first remove the bone from the breast and then slice the meat thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is the perfect

solution for a tender, juicy, and flavorful turkey without the hassle. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, this easy recipe guarantees a delicious result. The slow cooking method ensures the turkey stays moist, and the simple seasoning creates a savory crust that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a fuss-free turkey that’s perfect for any occasion!

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