Let’s face it, nobody enjoys a dry, flavorless turkey. The thought of spending hours in the kitchen, only to be disappointed by a bland bird, is enough to deter anyone from cooking this classic dish. I’ve certainly been there, and it’s a truly disheartening experience. That’s precisely why I mastered the art of making a boneless turkey breast in the slow cooker. This method is incredibly forgiving, practically foolproof, and my comprehensive tips and tricks will guide you to a perfectly tender, succulent, and flavor-packed turkey every single time. Simply toss it in, let your slow cooker work its magic, and in just a few hours, you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering centerpiece that’s ideal for any occasion.
This ultimate guide provides a step-by-step recipe for preparing a delectable boneless turkey breast in your Crock Pot. It’s surprisingly easy, transforming what many consider a challenging dish into a simple, hands-off process. Slow cooking is, without a doubt, the secret to achieving unbelievably tender and juicy meat, infused with rich flavors that truly stand out. Whether you’re planning a festive Thanksgiving feast, a special holiday gathering, or simply need a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner, this slow cooker turkey breast recipe is your answer to a stress-free and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Turkey Breast Recipe
This slow cooker turkey breast recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy tender, flavorful turkey without the usual fuss. Here’s why this method will quickly become your favorite:
- Effortless, Stress-Free Cooking: Turkey, especially a whole bird, can be incredibly daunting to cook. The slow cooker eliminates all the guesswork and constant attention. There’s no need for basting, monitoring, or adjusting temperatures. Simply set it, forget it, and return to a perfectly cooked, juicy boneless turkey. It’s the ultimate hands-off experience, leaving you free to focus on other aspects of your meal or simply relax.
- Ideal for Smaller Gatherings: If you’re hosting a smaller holiday dinner, a cozy Sunday meal, or preparing a special dinner for your family, a full-sized turkey can be far too much. A turkey breast, cooked in the slow cooker, offers the perfect portion size, ensuring you have enough delicious meat without an overwhelming amount of leftovers (unless you want them!). It’s a smart and economical choice for intimate meals.
- Guaranteed Juiciness – Never Dry: The slow cooker environment is key to this recipe’s success. By cooking low and slow, the turkey breast retains all its natural moisture, resulting in meat that is incredibly tender and juicy. Say goodbye to the dry, overcooked turkey often associated with oven roasting. This method locks in the flavors and juices, delivering succulent slices every time.
- Foolproof Results, Every Time: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is incredibly difficult to mess up. The consistent, gentle heat of the slow cooker prevents common cooking pitfalls, making it a reliable method even if you’ve never cooked turkey before. My family consistently raves about how delicious this turkey is, a testament to its simple yet effective approach.
- Versatile and Flavorful: This recipe provides a fantastic base that can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, creating a rich and aromatic dish that’s delicious on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Ingredients for a Perfect Crock Pot Turkey Breast
Minimal ingredients are needed to achieve maximum flavor and tenderness in your slow cooker turkey breast. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless Turkey Breast: The star of our dish, providing lean and tender meat.
- Broth (Chicken or Vegetable): Essential for creating a moist cooking environment and infusing flavor.
- Onions: Adds a savory depth to the cooking liquid and helps tenderize the turkey.
- Unsalted Butter: Contributes richness and helps keep the turkey moist.
- Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, and Poultry Seasoning: A classic seasoning blend that delivers a warm, savory, and slightly smoky profile.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
Bone-In vs Boneless Turkey Breast: Which is Best?
While this recipe specifically calls for a boneless turkey roast, the slow cooker method is incredibly adaptable and can also work wonderfully for a bone-in turkey breast. Most boneless roasts typically weigh between 2-3 pounds, making them an excellent choice for convenient cooking and portion control. Skin-on turkey is often preferred by many cooks because the fat from the skin renders down during the cooking process, naturally basting the meat and contributing significantly to its tenderness and juiciness. However, it’s worth noting that many boneless turkey breasts are sold with minimal or no skin.
Ultimately, the decision to use a skin-on or skin-off turkey breast, or even a bone-in versus boneless, comes down to personal preference and what is readily available at your grocery store. If you can find a boneless turkey breast with the skin intact, it will add an extra layer of flavor and moisture. Regardless of your choice, the slow cooker’s gentle heat ensures a moist and flavorful result.
How to Cook a Succulent Turkey Breast in a Crock Pot
Preparing a tender and juicy turkey breast in your slow cooker is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect meal:
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Begin by thoroughly patting the boneless turkey breast dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the seasoning adhere much better to the surface of the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Season Generously: Drizzle the turkey breast all over with a light coating of olive oil, which acts as a binder for your spices. Then, generously rub it with a flavorful blend of poultry seasoning, smoked paprika (regular paprika works fine if smoked isn’t available), onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! For an extra aromatic touch, consider adding herbs like dried thyme, oregano, or a touch of Creole seasoning for a zesty kick. Ensure the entire surface is covered.
- Layer the Crock Pot: Create a flavorful base in your slow cooker by placing a layer of thinly sliced onions at the bottom. Pour in the broth over the onions. This foundation serves two purposes: it prevents the turkey from sticking to the bottom of the pot and infuses the meat with incredible flavor as it cooks.
- Add the Turkey: Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast directly on top of the onion and broth mixture in the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover your slow cooker with its lid and cook the turkey breast on the LOW setting for approximately 3–4 hours. The precise cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your turkey breast and the specific model of your slow cooker. To ensure perfect doneness and food safety, always use a reliable meat thermometer. The thickest part of the turkey breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is the absolute best way to guarantee a safe, moist, and delicious turkey, preventing any dryness.
- Optional: Crisp the Skin (if applicable): If your turkey breast comes with skin and you desire a beautiful, golden, and crispy finish, transfer the cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet. Place it under the broiler in your oven for 3–5 minutes, or until the skin achieves a light golden-brown color and desired crispness. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Rest Before Slicing: This step is non-negotiable for juicy turkey! Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and allow it to rest on a cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for 10-15 minutes. Slicing into the turkey too soon will cause all those precious, flavorful juices to escape, leaving you with dry meat. Resting allows the juices to redistribute back into the muscle fibers, ensuring every slice is wonderfully moist and tender.
The Netting Dilemma: To Remove or Not to Remove?
Many boneless turkey breasts, especially those sold as roasts, come encased in a mesh netting. This netting serves a crucial purpose: it holds the turkey breast together, especially if it’s composed of several breast parts pressed into a cohesive loaf shape. If you remove the netting from the turkey before it cooks, it will likely fall apart during the slow cooking process, particularly with brands like Butterball, which are often processed this way.
Traditionally, the netting is removed *after* the roast has been cooked and has had a chance to firm up. However, I often choose to remove this netting prior to cooking. My reason? It allows me to thoroughly rub the spices directly onto the entire surface of the turkey, ensuring maximum flavor penetration. If you decide to remove the netting before cooking and the breast starts to separate, you can easily secure it back together with a few kitchen toothpicks. If you prefer not to go through this extra step, then it’s perfectly fine to leave the netting intact during cooking. Just remember to carefully snip and remove it before slicing and serving.
Boneless Turkey Breast in Crock Pot
By Brandi Crawford
No one wants a dry, boring turkey. This foolproof slow cooker boneless turkey breast recipe guarantees tender, flavorful meat every time. Just set it and forget it for a delicious meal!
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
1x 2x 3x
- 3 pound boneless turkey breast You can also use a bone-in breast.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika is fine.
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 1 cup broth I used chicken
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Then, generously sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper over both sides of the breast. Rub the spices firmly into the meat, ensuring it’s completely coated. Add more spices if desired for stronger flavor.3 pound boneless turkey breast, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning, salt and pepper to taste
- Pour 1 cup of broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange the sliced onions evenly over the broth. Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the onions. Dot the top of the turkey breast with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for added richness.1 cup sliced onions, 1 cup broth, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 3-4 hours. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety and optimal tenderness.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker. Be gentle, as the slow cooking process will make it incredibly tender and it may tend to fall apart easily. Transfer it to a cutting board.
- If your turkey breast has skin and you desire a crispy finish, you have two options: use an air fryer (cook for 3-4 minutes at 400°F) or broil it in the oven (for about 3-5 minutes). Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Before slicing, allow the turkey breast to rest on the cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for at least 15-20 minutes. This essential step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a much juicier and more tender final product.
Notes
Always ensure your turkey breast is fully thawed before placing it in the slow cooker. Cooking frozen turkey in a slow cooker is not recommended for food safety.
If your turkey breast comes with netting, it typically helps hold the shape, especially if the breast is made from several pieces. While often removed after cooking, I prefer to remove it beforehand to allow spices to adhere directly to the meat. If the breast then starts to fall apart, simply secure it with kitchen toothpicks. If you’d rather not bother, leaving the netting intact during cooking is perfectly fine.
Nutrition
Calories: 266kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 42g
Fat: 10g
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Mastering the Art of Seasoning Your Turkey
The right seasoning blend is essential for transforming a simple turkey breast into a truly memorable dish. My go-to combination includes poultry seasoning, smoked paprika (or regular paprika for a milder flavor), onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend offers a balanced, savory profile that perfectly complements the turkey.
However, feel free to unleash your culinary creativity! Here are some other fantastic spices and seasoning blends you can experiment with:
- Herbs: Dried thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage are classic partners for turkey, imparting a wonderful herbaceous aroma.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, a touch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a good quality Creole seasoning can add an exciting dimension.
- Citrus Zest: Grated lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavor profile significantly, adding a fresh, tangy note.
- Garlic & Onion: Beyond powder, you can use fresh minced garlic and finely chopped shallots or green onions for a more pungent and layered aromatic base.
- Pre-made Blends: Don’t hesitate to use your favorite store-bought turkey rubs or all-purpose seasoning blends. Just ensure they don’t contain excessive salt if you’re adding your own.
Remember, liberal seasoning is key for slow-cooked meats, as the gentle cooking process allows the flavors to truly meld and permeate the meat.
Optimal Cook Time for Tender Turkey
For a typical 2-3 pound boneless turkey breast, the ideal cook time in a slow cooker on the LOW setting is generally 3-4 hours. However, cook times can vary based on several factors, including the exact size and thickness of your turkey breast, and the efficiency of your specific slow cooker model. Some slow cookers run hotter than others, so it’s always best to be vigilant.
The most important rule for cooking any poultry, especially turkey, is to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature. You must cook the turkey breast until the thickest part (without touching any bones, if present) registers at least 165°F (74°C) with a reliable meat thermometer. This is not only crucial for food safety but also for achieving that perfectly tender and juicy texture we’re aiming for. Overcooking, even in a slow cooker, can lead to dry meat, so using a thermometer is your best defense against a disappointing turkey.
Achieving Perfectly Crispy Turkey Skin
While slow cooking excels at producing incredibly tender and juicy meat, it doesn’t typically result in crispy skin. If your boneless turkey breast comes with skin and you desire that delicious, golden-brown crispness, there’s an easy fix! After your turkey breast has finished slow cooking and reached the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), carefully transfer it to a baking sheet.
Place the baking sheet under your oven’s broiler for just a few minutes, typically 3-5 minutes. Keep a very close watch on it, as broiler temperatures can vary, and skin can go from golden to burnt very quickly. Alternatively, you can achieve a similar result in an air fryer set to 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes. This quick burst of high heat will render the fat and crisp up the skin beautifully, adding a delightful textural contrast to your tender turkey.
The Crucial Step: Allowing Your Turkey to Rest
After your turkey breast is perfectly cooked, resist the immediate urge to slice into it! Allowing the turkey breast to rest is a simple yet absolutely critical step for achieving maximum juiciness and tenderness. When meat cooks, its muscle fibers contract, pushing the internal juices towards the center. If you cut into it right away, these juices will simply gush out onto your cutting board, leaving your turkey dry.
Instead, remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and transfer it to a clean cutting board. Loosely tent it with aluminum foil to keep it warm, and let it rest for a minimum of 10-15 minutes (20 minutes is even better for larger cuts). During this resting period, the muscle fibers relax, allowing the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. This ensures that every single slice is succulent, flavorful, and incredibly moist. Don’t skip this step – it truly makes all the difference!
Storage and Reheating Tips for Crock Pot Turkey Breast
Having leftover slow cooker turkey breast is a fantastic bonus, offering quick and easy meal options throughout the week. Proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor.
Once cooled, transfer any leftover turkey breast to an airtight container. It will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for meal prepping and enjoying healthy, protein-rich meals without additional cooking.
How to Reheat Boneless Turkey Breast Without Drying It Out
The biggest challenge with reheating turkey is preventing it from drying out. My favorite methods ensure the meat stays juicy:
- Air Fryer: Place slices of turkey in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for just a few minutes until warmed through, usually 3-5 minutes.
- Oven: Arrange turkey slices in an oven-safe dish with a splash of chicken or turkey broth. Cover tightly with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, typically 10-15 minutes. The broth creates steam, keeping the turkey moist.
- Microwave: For quick individual portions, place turkey slices with a tablespoon of broth in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
Always reheat turkey with a little broth or gravy to infuse moisture and prevent it from becoming tough or dry.
Freezing Boneless Turkey Breast for Future Meals
If you have a larger quantity of turkey you won’t consume within a few days, freezing is an excellent option. The turkey will last beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can freeze it in several ways:
- Sliced: Freeze individual slices for easy portioning.
- Shredded or Diced: Perfect for adding directly to soups, casseroles, or stir-fries without needing further preparation.
To freeze, place the cooled turkey in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Having prepped, frozen turkey on hand is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and spontaneous meal creations, allowing you to easily toss it onto salads, into sandwiches, or incorporate it into a comforting soup!
Explore More Delicious Turkey Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed this slow cooker turkey breast, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic turkey recipes that offer a variety of flavors and cooking methods:
- Smothered Turkey Wings: Rich, comforting, and incredibly tender wings.
- Smothered Turkey Necks: A soulful dish, slow-cooked to perfection.
- Slow Cooker Turkey Wings: Another effortless slow cooker option for juicy wings.
- Juicy Spatchcock Turkey: For when you need a whole turkey that cooks faster and more evenly.
- Cajun Roasted Turkey: A flavorful, spiced whole turkey recipe.
- Air Fryer Turkey Breast: A quick and crispy alternative for turkey breast.
- Baked Turkey Legs: Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a rustic meal.
- Crockpot Slow Cooker Bone-in Turkey Breast: If you prefer bone-in, this recipe has you covered.
- Roasted Bone In Turkey Breast: A classic oven-roasted method for bone-in turkey.
- Air Fried Turkey Wings: Crispy wings cooked efficiently in the air fryer.
Creative Leftover Turkey Recipes
Don’t let any of that delicious slow cooker turkey breast go to waste! Leftovers are incredibly versatile and can be transformed into exciting new meals. Here are some creative ideas to repurpose your turkey:
- Leftover Turkey Chili: A hearty and comforting chili, perfect for a cold evening.
- Leftover Turkey Nachos: A fun and easy way to use up turkey for a game day snack or casual dinner.
- Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup: A warm and wholesome soup ideal for chilly weather.
- Turkey Bone Broth Recipe: Maximize flavor and nutrients by making broth from any turkey bones.
- Instant Pot Turkey Breast: If you need another quick turkey breast option for future meals.
- Turkey and Cheese Sliders: Mini sandwiches that are great for parties or a light meal.
- Turkey Sandwiches & Wraps: Classic uses for leftover turkey, paired with your favorite condiments and veggies.
- Turkey Salads: Dice or shred turkey and mix with mayo, celery, and herbs for a delicious turkey salad.
- Turkey Pot Pie: Use leftover turkey in a comforting, creamy pot pie filling.
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Turkey
No turkey meal is complete without a selection of delicious side dishes! This tender slow cooker turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic and comforting sides. Here are some top recommendations to create a truly memorable feast:
- Southern Soul Food Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection – an absolute crowd-pleaser.
- Southern Chicken and Dressing Cornbread Dressing: A savory and moist dressing, full of classic Southern flavors.
- Scalloped Corn: A creamy and slightly sweet corn casserole that’s incredibly comforting.
- Seafood Mac and Cheese: An elevated take on mac and cheese for a truly indulgent meal.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar: Sweet, smooth, and wonderfully spiced – a perfect holiday favorite.
- Southern Collard Greens: Tender, flavorful greens cooked with smoky goodness.
- Smothered Chicken Wings: While turkey is the star, these wings make a great complementary poultry option.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Cranberry Sauce: A homemade, easy cranberry sauce to balance the rich flavors.
- Slow Cooker Crockpot Neck Bones: Another hearty slow-cooked option for a robust meal.
- Roasted Okra: A simple and healthy vegetable side with a lovely texture.
Complete your meal with the perfect gravy! Pair this succulent turkey with my Turkey Gravy From Drippings for the ultimate flavor, or try Yellow Gravy Without Drippings for a simpler option. For a lighter touch, my Keto Low Carb Gravy is a fantastic choice.
For those who prefer oven cooking, check out my Boneless Turkey Breast Roast recipe for a delicious baked version.