If you’ve ever wished for a fuss-free but incredibly flavorful turkey dinner, let me introduce you to the star of home cooking: the Slow Cooker Turkey Breast. This recipe delivers tender, juicy turkey infused with rich herbs and spices, all effortlessly cooked in your slow cooker. It’s a real game-changer for anyone wanting to enjoy the comfort of a classic roast turkey without the oven babysitting. From the crispy, golden skin to the silky homemade gravy, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast will quickly become your go-to when you want that perfect bird with minimal stress.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and packed with flavor, each playing a vital role in creating a turkey breast that’s juicy, aromatic, and beautifully textured. Simple pantry essentials, fresh veggies, and a few special touches come together to make this dish unforgettable.

Boneless turkey breast with skin (about 2 ½ – 3 pounds): The centerpiece of this recipe, the skin keeps the meat moist and develops amazing texture during broiling.

Chicken broth (low-sodium), 1 cup: Provides moisture and subtle savory notes while cooking.
Celery stalks, 2 (halved): Adds aromatic base flavor and balances richness with gentle earthiness.

Carrots, 2 medium (quartered): Sweetness and color brighten the slow cooker’s flavor base.
Large red onion, 1 (cut into ½” wedges): Brings a mild sharpness that softens as it simmers around the turkey.

Garlic cloves, 4 (whole): Infuses deep, mellow garlic essence throughout the dish.
Melted unsalted butter or olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Ensures rich moisture and helps crisp the skin during broiling.
Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon: A fragrant mix to boost the turkey’s herbal profile.

Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor layer.
Onion powder, ½ teaspoon: Adds concentrated onion sweetness without overpowering.
Garlic powder, ½ teaspoon: Amplifies the fresh garlic with subtle earthiness.

Black pepper, ½ teaspoon: Warmth and gentle heat balance the flavors beautifully.
Paprika, ½ teaspoon: Provides smoky color and a hint of sweetness.
Dried basil, ½ teaspoon: A delicate herb to freshen the overall seasoning.

Brown sugar, 1 tablespoon: Caramelizes slightly on the turkey, adding depth and balance.
Liquid smoke, 1 teaspoon: Gives a subtle, mouthwatering smoky aroma without needing a grill.
Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon: Adds umami complexity that deepens the savory notes.

Unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons (for gravy): For making a silky, flavorful gravy roux.
All-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons (for gravy): Thickens the gravy to the perfect pourable consistency.
Additional chicken broth, 2 cups (for gravy): Base for a luscious gravy to drizzle over every slice.

How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Rub

Start by blending all the rub mixture ingredients—Italian herbs, salt, onion and garlic powders, black pepper, paprika, dried basil, brown sugar, liquid smoke, and Worcestershire sauce—into one aromatic seasoning blend. This simple rub coats your turkey breast with layers of flavor and helps lock in moisture during the slow cooking process.

Step 2: Apply the Rub

Spread the seasoned rub evenly over the skin and all around the turkey breast. Make sure every nook and cranny gets coverage so that each bite bursts with that herbaceous, smoky goodness.

Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker Base

Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker and arrange the halved celery, quartered carrots, red onion wedges, and whole garlic cloves over the broth. These vegetables serve as a natural roasting rack and infuse the turkey with subtle earthy and sweet flavors as it cooks low and slow.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey

Place the turkey breast skin side up on top of this vegetable bed. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F. The gentle heat transforms the meat into incredibly tender, juicy perfection without any fuss.

Step 5: Crisp the Skin

Once slow cooking is complete, transfer the turkey breast onto a foil-lined baking sheet and broil it in your oven for 3 to 5 minutes. This step crisps the skin beautifully, giving you a golden, irresistible surface that contrasts wonderfully with the tender meat beneath.

Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Make Gravy

Let the turkey rest for about 15 minutes so the juices redistribute evenly. Meanwhile, strain the slow cooker drippings into a saucepan. Whisk together butter and flour to create a roux, then slowly add 1 to 2 cups of broth, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’ll have a silky gravy ready to pour over your slices.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary sprinkled on top brighten the presentation and add a burst of fresh aroma. A little extra melted butter brushed on after slicing adds a luscious gleam your guests will love.

Side Dishes

Pair your Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with classic sides such as roasted potatoes, buttery green beans, or creamy mashed cauliflower. For something different, try a tangy cranberry relish or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic drizzle, which balance the rich flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, carve thick slices and serve on a wooden board surrounded by whole garlic cloves and colorful veggies from the slow cooker. Or layer slices on warm dinner rolls for gourmet turkey sliders. The juicy meat also makes a fantastic ingredient for hearty sandwiches or salads the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Slow Cooker Turkey Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its juicy texture and flavor for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or second meals.

Freezing

If you want to save some turkey for later, slice and freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers with a bit of gravy or broth to protect moisture. Frozen turkey breast can last for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating

The best way to reheat leftover turkey is gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth in a covered pan to keep it moist. Alternatively, heat in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to avoid drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?

It’s best to thaw the turkey breast completely before slow cooking. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and increase the risk of food safety issues.

How do I know when the Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 165°F in the thickest part of the breast for safe and perfect doneness.

Can I use boneless turkey breast without skin?

You can, but keeping the skin on really helps keep the meat moist and allows for that crispy finish. If you prefer skinless, consider brushing with extra butter to maintain moisture.

Is it possible to cook the turkey breast on high speed?

Cooking on low is recommended for tender, juicy results. High can cook the meat too fast and risk drying it out, so it’s better to be patient and enjoy that low-and-slow magic.

How do I make the gravy thicker if it’s too thin?

Add a bit more flour to your roux or simmer the gravy gently to reduce it down. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply satisfying about coming home to the inviting aroma of Slow Cooker Turkey Breast simmering away, ready to deliver a deliciously tender and flavorful meal without standing over the stove. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth, comfort, and ease together beautifully. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever did turkey any other way!

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 14 reviews

Author: Lila

Total Time: 6 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe delivers juicy, tender turkey infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Cooked low and slow with vegetables in a flavorful broth, the turkey develops deep flavors while remaining moist and succulent. A quick broil finishes off the skin for a crispy texture, and a rich homemade gravy made from drippings perfectly complements this easy-to-make, comforting dish.

Instructions

Mix Rub Mixture: In a small bowl, combine Italian herbs, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, dried basil, brown sugar, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, and melted butter or olive oil. Stir well to form a cohesive rub.
Rub Turkey: Evenly spread the prepared rub mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring all surfaces are coated for maximum flavor penetration.
Prepare Slow Cooker Base: Pour 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the halved celery stalks, quartered carrots, red onion wedges, and whole garlic cloves evenly over the broth.

Add Turkey to Slow Cooker: Place the rubbed turkey breast on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker, skin side facing up to allow the skin to crisp later.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcooking to keep the meat moist.
Broil for Crispy Skin: Once cooked, transfer the turkey breast to a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil it in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin is nicely browned and crispy. Monitor closely to prevent burning.

Baste: During cooking and broiling, brush the turkey occasionally with melted butter or leftover rub mixture to enhance flavor and moisture.
Rest and Slice: Remove the turkey breast from the broiler and let it rest for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender when sliced.
Make Gravy: Strain the drippings and vegetables from the slow cooker into a saucepan over medium heat. In a separate pan, make a roux by melting 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and whisking in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour until smooth and golden. Slowly whisk 1 to 2 cups of turkey or chicken broth into the roux until smooth, then add the strained drippings. Simmer until thickened, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve: Slice the rested turkey breast and serve warm with the flavorful homemade gravy drizzled on top.

Notes

Make sure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F to ensure safe consumption.
Broiling time can vary depending on your oven; watch closely to avoid burning the skin.

You can substitute olive oil for melted butter in the rub if preferred.
Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For best results, use a meat thermometer to monitor the turkey’s doneness.

The vegetables cooked beneath provide aromatic flavor and can be served alongside the turkey or used in gravy.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes

Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker, Broiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (about 6 oz turkey with gravy)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g

Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g

Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g

Fiber: 1.5g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, slow cooked turkey, turkey recipe, easy turkey breast, turkey with gravy, slow cooker recipes