Name: Crockpot Turkey Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (4 to 6 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast, skin-on; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)

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Table of Contents: Crockpot Turkey Breast

Crockpot Turkey Breast

Tired of spending hours in the kitchen while your turkey dries out or your family watches the clock? This Crockpot Turkey Breast is the game-changer you’ve been waiting for. Tender, golden, and bursting with aromatic herbs and savory depth, this recipe transforms your slow cooker into your best friend — especially when you’re short on time or oven space. It’s the perfect healthy turkey dinner that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a Sunday family dinner, or an easy weeknight meal, this slow cooker turkey recipe simplifies holiday cooking without sacrificing tradition.

Introduction: Crockpot Turkey Breast

There’s something magical about a Crockpot Turkey Breast — it’s the kind of dish that lets you savor the flavors of a holiday feast without the stress. Instead of hovering over a scorching hot oven, basting every 30 minutes, you can set this down and walk away. The slow cooker gently coaxes out moisture, infusing the meat with layers of garlic, herbs, and broth, resulting in a juicy, tender turkey breast that practically melts on the fork. And because it only requires a handful of pantry essentials, it’s an easy Thanksgiving meal that even beginner cooks can master with confidence.

What makes this recipe truly special? It’s both healthy and comforting — a rare combo in holiday cooking. Without the need for heavy sauces or deep-frying, this healthy turkey dinner keeps things balanced yet deeply flavorful. Plus, the built-in broth and vegetables create a simple pan sauce, making it a one-pot wonder. From cozy winter dinners to Easter brunches, this slow cooker turkey recipe is your back-pocket solution for delicious, fuss-free meals that bring people together.

Alternate Names & Variations

This versatile recipe goes by many names in home kitchens across the U.S. and beyond. You might have heard it called:
– Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
– Herb-Roasted Turkey in Crock Pot
– Garlic & Thyme Turkey Breast
– Easy Slow-Cooked Turkey for Thanksgiving
– One-Pot Turkey Breast with Veggies

For a slightly different spin, consider slow cooker turkey breast with apples and cider (great for fall!) or a lemon-herb version with extra zest and fresh thyme. Looking for something smokier? Swap paprika for smoked paprika. Want it gluten-free? This recipe already is — just verify your Worcestershire sauce label. With so many options, it’s the ultimate slow cooker turkey recipe for customization and holiday joy.

Ingredients: Crockpot Turkey Breast

– 1 (4–6 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast (skin-on recommended for best browning post-slow cooking)
– 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted, melted)
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (adds a golden color)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried sage (optional, for extra holiday flavor)

– ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup unsalted chicken or turkey broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds depth of flavor)
– ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 medium carrot, chopped

For garnish: Fresh parsley, thyme sprigs, or cranberry sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the turkey breast: Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. This is essential for better seasoning adhesion. Make sure it’s trimmed of excess fat.

2. Create the seasoning paste: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, sage (if using), lemon zest, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and fragrant.

3. Coat the turkey: Generously rub the herb-butter mixture all over the turkey breast — under the skin (if present), on top, and on the sides. Yes, it’s messy — that’s how you know it’s flavorful.

4. Layer the aromatics: Place the sliced onion, chopped celery, and carrot in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in the broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to combine.

5. Add the turkey: Place the turkey breast on top of the vegetables, skin-side up if applicable. This elevates it slightly, helping with even heat circulation.

6. Cook on LOW: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, depending on the weight of your turkey breast (see FAQs for timing). Do not open the lid during cooking — let the steam do its work.

7. Optional broil (for browning): For a crispy, golden skin, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and broil on high for 3–5 minutes at the end. Watch closely to prevent burning.

8. Rest and serve: Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Stir the juices from the slow cooker and serve as a simple gravy or sauce.

Chef Tip: Save the veggies! Puree them with the broth to make an instant holiday gravy — no flour needed.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep takes just 15 minutes. The Crockpot Turkey Breast cooks low and slow for 6–8 hours, with a total time of around 7–9 hours. This recipe serves 4–6 people and is an excellent source of lean protein and heart-healthy fats. Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, depending on cut size and bone-in vs. boneless. It’s naturally low in carbs and sugar, high in protein, and free from gluten when using certified broth and tamari-based Worcestershire.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Crockpot Turkey Breast stands out because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort — a rare feat in home cooking. The secret lies in layering: the herb-butter rub creates a flavorful crust, while the slow cooker’s moist environment ensures tenderness without basting. The veggies aren’t just for show — they infuse the broth, making it a savory base for gravy or mashed potatoes.

It’s ideal for easy comfort food for family dinners, holiday buffets, or even meal prep for the week. Want to add even more depth? Add a bay leaf to the broth. Hosting a small crowd? Double the recipe in two slow cookers. For a healthy turkey dinner, serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or wild rice. And if you’re short on oven space (hello, holiday chaos!), this slow cooker turkey recipe saves the day without sacrificing taste.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Crockpot Turkey Breast tastes even better the next day! Store cooked turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the broth and veggies separate or mixed, depending on your preference for gravy.

To freeze, slice the turkey and portion with ½ cup of the cooking liquid (to keep it moist). Vacuum-seal or use freezer-safe containers. It will keep for 3 months. Label with the date and “slow cooker turkey breast – healthy leftovers.”

To reheat, place slices in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave in 30-second bursts. For frozen turkey, thaw overnight in the fridge first, then warm gently. Never microwave directly from frozen — texture suffers. Use leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or turkey tetrazzini for a delicious easy Thanksgiving meal remix.

People Also Ask: Crockpot Turkey Breast

How do you cook a turkey breast in a crock pot?

To cook a Crockpot Turkey Breast, start by seasoning the turkey with herbs, garlic, and butter, then place it in a slow cooker layered with broth and chopped vegetables. Cook on low for 6–8 hours depending on weight. The slow, moist heat ensures juicy meat throughout. Do not add extra liquid — the turkey releases its own juices, and the veggies create steam. For best results, dry the turkey skin before seasoning. This method is perfect for a slow cooker turkey recipe that requires no basting and maximizes flavor with minimal effort. It’s the go-to for an easy Thanksgiving meal or healthy turkey dinner.

How long does it take to cook a turkey breast in a slow cooker?

A Crockpot Turkey Breast (4–6 lbs) takes 6 to 8 hours on low. For precise timing, cook approximately 1.5 hours per pound. A 4-lb turkey takes 6 hours; a 6-lb may need 8. Use a meat thermometer: the thickest part should reach 165°F internal temperature. Avoid opening the lid to check — it drops temperature and delays cooking. This timing ensures a healthy turkey dinner that’s moist and flavorful. For faster meals, increase to high, but it can dry out the meat — not recommended. This is why slow cooker turkey recipes favor low and slow for the best results.

Can you put frozen turkey breast in a crock pot?

No, never cook a frozen turkey breast in a crockpot. The extended cooking time on low allows the outer layers to spend too long in the “danger zone” (40°F–140°F), promoting bacterial growth. For food safety, always thaw completely before cooking, ideally in the fridge for 24 hours. If you’re short on time, use the cold water method (submerged in cold water, changed every 30 minutes — takes ~1 hour per 2 lbs). Once thawed, this Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe delivers a safe, easy Thanksgiving meal. Safety first, flavor always — especially with slow cooker turkey recipes meant for healthy families.

How do you keep turkey breast from drying out in a crock pot?

To keep your Crockpot Turkey Breast juicy, use a bone-in breast with skin (if possible), cook on low, and avoid overcooking. The bone adds flavor and insulation, while the skin locks in moisture (optional broil at end for crispiness). The broth and veggies in the bottom create a steam bath, preventing drying. Don’t remove the lid early — this retains heat and humidity. Basting isn’t needed because the slow cooker self-bastes with condensation. This makes it one of the most forgiving slow cooker turkey recipes for a consistently healthy turkey dinner. For extra insurance, reserve some cooking liquid to sauce the meat before serving.

Conclusion: Crockpot Turkey Breast

If you’ve ever dreamed of serving a Crockpot Turkey Breast that’s juicy, aromatic, and absolutely foolproof — this is it. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, cooking for a weeknight crowd, or treating yourself to a comforting healthy turkey dinner, this recipe delivers every time. No stress. No dry meat. Just rich, homestyle flavor with half the effort.

I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you add extra herbs? Swap in smoked paprika? Broil the skin for that golden glow? Let me know in the comments — and tag us on social with your #CrockpotTurkey win. Here’s to making easy Thanksgiving meals that taste like tradition, without the fuss.