Imagine the tantalizing aroma of a perfectly seasoned turkey breast, slowly cooking in your crockpot, infusing your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.
With just a few simple ingredients, like garlic and onion powder, you’ll transform an ordinary turkey breast into a succulent masterpiece.
As the hours pass, the meat becomes tender and juicy, ready to pair with your favorite sides.
Want to discover the secret to this effortless culinary delight?
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Crockpot or slow cooker
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Measuring cup
- 1 Measuring spoon set
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless turkey breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking the Turkey Breast Crockpot recipe, follow this timeline:
- Reading Instructions:
- Time: 5 minutes
- Activity: Read through the entire recipe to familiarize yourself with the steps and ingredients.
- Preparation:
- Total Prep Time: 15 minutes
- 0-5 minutes: Gather all necessary equipment (Crockpot, mixing bowl, measuring cup, measuring spoon set, knife, cutting board) and ingredients (turkey breast, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, chicken broth, olive oil, butter).
- 5-10 minutes: Rinse and pat dry the turkey breast.
- 10-12 minutes: Combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme in a mixing bowl.
- 12-15 minutes: Rub the spice mixture over the turkey breast.
- Crockpot Setup:
- Time: 5 minutes
- 15-17 minutes: Pour chicken broth into the crockpot.
- 17-18 minutes: Place the turkey breast in the crockpot.
- 18-20 minutes: Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the turkey.
- Cooking:
- Total Cook Time: 6 hours
- 20 minutes – 6 hours and 20 minutes: Set the crockpot to low and cook the turkey breast. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to maintain temperature and moisture.
- Resting:
- Time: 10 minutes
- 6 hours and 20 minutes – 6 hours and 30 minutes: Carefully remove the cooked turkey breast from the crockpot and let it rest before slicing.
- Optional Crisping:
- Time: 5-10 minutes (if desired)
- If a crispy skin is preferred, broil the turkey breast in the oven for a few minutes after resting.
- Serving:
- Time: 5 minutes
- 6 hours and 30 minutes – 6 hours and 35 minutes: Slice the turkey breast and serve with your choice of sides.
This timeline guarantees efficient preparation and cooking, allowing you to manage your time effectively and enjoy a delicious meal.
Recipe Instructions
Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast.
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the crockpot.
Place the turkey breast in the crockpot.
Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the turkey breast.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve the turkey breast with your choice of sides.
Serving Tips
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the savory turkey breast for a classic comfort meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add depth and color to your plate with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce offers a sweet contrast that complements the turkey’s flavors.
- Green Beans Almondine: This side dish adds a touch of elegance with its crunchy almonds and buttery green beans.
- Stuffing: Incorporating stuffing adds a hearty, flavorful component that absorbs the juices from the turkey.
Storage
Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing
To freeze turkey breast, let it cool completely.
Then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in an airtight container.
Label with the date and use within three months.
Reheating
To reheat crockpot turkey breast, slice it and place in a baking dish with some broth.
Cover with foil and heat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
The Turkey Breast Crockpot recipe is a simple and convenient way to prepare a delicious main course.
With just 15 minutes of prep time and the ease of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a flavorful and tender turkey breast.
The combination of spices and the addition of chicken broth guarantee a moist and savory dish.
Remember to let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
This recipe serves six people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Consider pairing it with your favorite sides or adding vegetables to the crockpot for a complete meal.
For a crispy skin, you can broil the turkey briefly in the oven after it finishes cooking in the crockpot.
Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this American cuisine classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Turkey Breast Instead of Boneless?
You can use bone-in turkey breast, but adjust the cook time. Bones add flavor and moisture, enhancing the dish. Make certain it fits your crockpot and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, juicy perfection.
Is It Possible to Cook on High Heat for a Shorter Time?
Yes, you can cook on high heat for a shorter time. Aim for 3-4 hours, ensuring the turkey breast reaches 165°F internally. This method intensifies flavors, but be cautious to avoid drying out the meat.
What Can I Substitute for Dried Thyme?
You can swap dried thyme with a mix of dried herbs like oregano or marjoram. These herbs bring a similar earthy, slightly minty flavor. Just use them sparingly to avoid overpowering your turkey’s natural taste.
How Do I Adjust the Recipe for a Larger Turkey Breast?
To adjust for a larger turkey breast, increase the seasoning proportions and cooking time proportionally. Confirm the internal temperature hits 165°F. You might need extra broth for moisture and consider a larger crockpot for even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe With Turkey Thighs Instead of Breast?
Absolutely, you can swap turkey thighs for the breast. They’ll offer a richer flavor and juiciness. Adjust cook time to guarantee tenderness, and maybe add a splash more broth for moisture. Your taste buds will thank you!
Turkey Breast Crockpot
Equipment
- 1 CrockPot or slow cooker
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless turkey breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the crockpot.
- Place the turkey breast in the crockpot.
- Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the turkey breast.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the turkey breast with your choice of sides.
Notes
