Imagine the aroma of a perfectly cooked turkey filling your home, with none of the usual kitchen chaos. This slow cooker turkey breast recipe offers just that a delicious, juicy centerpiece for your holiday table that practically cooks itself. No fuss, no basting, just tender, flavorful turkey every time. Let’s walk you through how to achieve this culinary delight, ensuring a festive and relaxed holiday meal.
Effortless Elegance with Your Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker for your turkey breast not only frees up oven space but also ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful. Infused with the essence of garlic, lemon, and herbs, this turkey recipe is both simple and sophisticated. Here’s how to make your holiday gatherings shine with minimal effort.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Slow Cooker Turkey
- Skin Side Up: Always place the turkey skin-side up in the slow cooker. This position helps the skin get a bit more texture from the slow cooker’s gentle heat.
- Herb Rub: Make the most of your herbs by rubbing them directly onto the skin and under it as well, if possible. This enhances the flavor throughout the meat.
- Resting Time: After cooking, let the turkey rest covered for about 15 minutes before slicing. This step helps retain the juices, making each slice extra moist.
- Broth Usage: Use the leftover broth in the slow cooker as a base for a delicious gravy or to keep leftover turkey moist for future meals.
- Slow Cooking Time: Check the internal temperature around the 5-hour mark to avoid overcooking, especially if your slow cooker runs hot.
Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 5-6 hours
- Serving: 6 servings
- Equipment: Slow cooker
This method is ideal for those who prefer spending more time with guests and less time monitoring the oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in turkey breast (about 6-7 pounds), skin-on
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Directions:
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the skin with olive oil and season generously with paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Set the Base: In the slow cooker, place the onion quarters, garlic cloves, and lemon halves.
- Cook: Lay the turkey breast on top of the aromatics, skin-side up. Pour the chicken broth around, not over, the turkey.
- Slow Cook: Cover and set to cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the turkey to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with the juices collected in the slow cooker for added flavor.
A Holiday Hero
This slow cooker turkey breast is your ticket to a stress-free holiday, allowing you to enjoy the festivities as much as your guests do. Juicy, flavorful, and tender, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy to any holiday table.
