The Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is a game-changer for anyone who wants all the flavors of a traditional roast turkey with none of the stress. Using the slow cooker, this method locks in moisture and infuses the meat with garlicky, buttery goodness. It’s perfect for small family dinners, meal prep, or holiday gatherings when you don’t want to wrestle a full bird. Plus, it frees up your oven for side dishes or dessert! This turkey breast is rubbed with a rich garlic herb butter blend, slow-cooked to juicy perfection, and finished with a quick broil to get that golden, crispy finish. It’s flavorful enough for a festive spread but simple enough for everyday comfort food. Serve it with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables to complete your cozy, satisfying meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 boneless turkey breast (4 to 5 lbs)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Directions:
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Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
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In a small bowl, mix butter, garlic, paprika, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper into a smooth paste.
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Rub olive oil over the turkey breast, then coat it evenly with the garlic herb butter mixture.
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Place the turkey breast into the crockpot and pour chicken broth around the sides.
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Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Optionally, broil the cooked turkey for 4–5 minutes to crisp the skin.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 hours | Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Making Crockpot Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter is a mouthwatering and hassle-free dish that transforms the classic holiday bird into a simple yet flavorful masterpiece. Perfect for both festive gatherings and everyday dinners, this slow cooker method delivers tender, juicy turkey every single time. For those who love the comforting flavors of roast turkey but dread the process of preparing an entire bird, this recipe is a game-changer. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving with a small group or just craving a hearty protein option for a weeknight meal, this dish offers convenience, consistency, and exceptional flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore why this slow-cooked turkey breast recipe is so effective, what makes the garlic herb butter combination special, and how you can elevate this dish for any occasion. We’ll also include helpful tips, variations, and serving ideas to inspire you to try it for your next meal or gathering.
Why Choose Crockpot Turkey Breast?
Convenience Without Compromise
One of the biggest advantages of making turkey breast in a slow cooker is how much easier it is compared to traditional roasting. No need to monitor oven temperatures, baste continuously, or worry about undercooked meat. Simply set it and forget it. The crockpot ensures even heat distribution, resulting in a turkey breast that’s incredibly moist and tender.
Perfect for Small Gatherings
Not everyone hosts a 10-person Thanksgiving dinner. If you’re cooking for two to six people, a full-sized turkey is often too much. A turkey breast is a perfectly portioned alternative that still delivers all the nostalgic flavors of a traditional holiday meal. Plus, it requires far less prep time, making it ideal for intimate gatherings, small family dinners, or weeknight meal prepping.
The Power of Garlic Herb Butter
Flavor Profile That Wows
The magic of this recipe lies in the compound butter made with garlic, herbs, and a touch of paprika. As the butter melts slowly during cooking, it seeps deep into the meat, flavoring every bite with aromatic herbs and savory garlic. The result is a rich, succulent turkey that doesn’t need gravy to be moist or flavorful though a ladle of homemade gravy never hurts!
Customizable to Your Taste
The herb butter can be adapted to suit your preferences. Add sage or marjoram for a more traditional holiday flavor, or include a hint of lemon zest for brightness. For those who like a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick. This flexibility makes it easy to create your own signature variation of the dish.
Key Advantages of the Slow Cooker Method
Retains Moisture
Because the crockpot traps steam, the turkey breast remains incredibly juicy throughout the cooking process. Even lean cuts like turkey breast, which tend to dry out in the oven, stay moist in a slow cooker. This makes it nearly impossible to mess up even for beginner cooks.
Frees Up Oven Space
During the holidays, oven real estate is prime territory. By cooking your turkey breast in the crockpot, you free up the oven for baking pies, roasting vegetables, or preparing sides like stuffing and sweet potato casserole. It’s a practical strategy for multi-course meals.
Hands-Off Cooking
Once you’ve prepped the turkey and placed it in the slow cooker, the machine does the rest. This leaves you with more time to enjoy your day whether that means entertaining guests, focusing on other dishes, or simply relaxing.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Use a Meat Thermometer
While slow cookers are generally foolproof, it’s still wise to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast before serving. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked poultry. Using a thermometer helps avoid overcooking and ensures food safety.
Don’t Skip the Resting Period
Allowing the turkey to rest after cooking is essential. Resting redistributes the juices throughout the meat, resulting in slices that are tender and flavorful. Just a 10-minute rest can make a big difference in texture and taste.
Optional Broiling for Crispy Skin
If you’re someone who loves crispy skin, don’t hesitate to place the cooked turkey breast under the broiler for 4–5 minutes. This gives the skin a golden, crisp finish and adds another layer of flavor and texture.
Ideal Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Classic Holiday Sides
Pair this crockpot turkey breast with stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls for a complete holiday spread. The mild flavor of the turkey makes it a versatile centerpiece for any number of side dishes.
Low-Carb or Keto Options
For a low-carb twist, serve it with roasted Brussels sprouts, cauliflower mash, or a hearty kale salad. The garlic herb butter fits perfectly into a keto-friendly lifestyle, and the turkey provides lean, high-quality protein.
Leftover-Friendly
Leftovers can be repurposed into sandwiches, wraps, soups, or even turkey pot pie. The turkey remains flavorful for days and holds up well in the refrigerator or freezer, making this dish as practical as it is tasty.
Variations and Additions
Bone-In vs. Boneless
While this recipe typically uses a boneless turkey breast for simplicity, you can also use a bone-in breast if desired. The cooking time may increase slightly, but the flavor can be even richer thanks to the bone marrow.
Add Aromatics
To boost the flavor even further, add chopped onions, celery, and carrots to the bottom of the slow cooker. These aromatics not only add depth but can also be used later to make a savory gravy or broth.
Spice It Up
Feel free to experiment with other seasonings or spice blends. Smoked paprika, cumin, or Cajun seasoning can all give the dish a unique flair that matches your personal taste or cultural tradition.
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Nutritional Considerations
Turkey breast is a lean source of protein, low in fat, and packed with essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and zinc. By using olive oil and real butter in moderation, this recipe strikes a balance between richness and healthfulness. For those watching their sodium intake, consider reducing the amount of added salt and using low-sodium chicken broth.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter is more than just an easy dinner option it’s a flavorful, practical solution for modern home cooks. Whether you’re preparing a scaled-down holiday feast or simply want a satisfying protein to anchor your weekday meals, this recipe delivers.
Its tender texture, mouthwatering garlic herb flavor, and hands-off cooking method make it a staple you’ll return to again and again. It’s a recipe that doesn’t just save time it elevates turkey from ordinary to exceptional with very little effort. Pair it with your favorite sides, customize the herbs to suit your taste, and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is convenient.
