Slow Cooker Turkey Breast – Juicy, Hands-Off, and Full of Flavor

If you’re dreaming of tender, juicy turkey without firing up the oven, this slow cooker turkey breast is your next go-to. Imagine coming home to the aroma of perfectly seasoned poultry cooking low and slow all day—no babysitting, no stress. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners and holiday sides alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless cooking—just prep, set it, and forget it
Consistently juicy results—no dried-out turkey
Flavorful herbs and spices infused throughout
Broil option for golden, crispy skin
Feeds a crowd—8 to 10 servings!

Ingredients

1 (5–7 lb) turkey breast – boneless or bone-in, skin on or off
2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika – adds depth and color
1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary – choose your favorite
1 cup chicken or turkey broth – for moist cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Turkey Breast

Pat dry the turkey with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick and reduces excess moisture.
Rub olive oil or melted butter all over the turkey, ensuring even coating for flavorful results.

Season It Up

In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme or rosemary.
Rub the seasoning mix all over the turkey breast, including sides and (if boneless) the underside for maximum flavor.

Set Up Your Slow Cooker

Pour 1 cup broth into the bottom to keep the turkey moist and prevent burning.
Place the turkey skin-side-up into the slow cooker (if using skin-on; otherwise, place it comfortably in the base).

Low & Slow Cooking

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours. The goal is an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Pro tip: Use an instant-read thermometer around hour 6 for the best timing.

Optional Broil for Crispy Skin

If you used skin-on turkey and want a crisp, golden crust, transfer the finished turkey to a baking sheet and broil for 4–5 minutes until the top browns. Stand close by—broilers work fast!

Rest and Serve

Let the turkey rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing—this redistributes the juices and keeps each slice moist.
Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce.

Side Dish Pairings

Classic mashed potatoes and gravy for that ultimate comfort combo
Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes
Green bean almondine or sauteed Brussels sprouts for color and crunch
Homemade stuffing, cranberry relish, or a simple mixed greens salad

Variations & Expert Tips

Flavor Variations

Citrus twist: Rub under the skin with lemon zest and fresh thyme
Spice up: Add a half teaspoon of cayenne or chipotle powder for subtle heat
Herb garden flavor: Swap dried herbs for fresh rosemary sprigs and sage

Equipment Tips

Use a 7–8 quart slow cooker to fit a larger turkey breast comfortably.
If using a boneless breast, consider placing it on a raised rack or a bed of halved onions—it cooks more evenly.

Timing Tips

Large turkey breasts (7 lb+) may need closer to 8 hours; smaller ones are done around 6.
Always confirm doneness with a meat thermometer, especially with poultry.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days—great for sandwiches or salads.
Freeze: Freeze slices or chunks for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheat: Gently warm in the oven at 300°F for 15–20 minutes, covered, with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is the perfect way to enjoy juicy, flavorful poultry with minimal effort. It’s versatile, reliable, and easily adapts to your taste preferences. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or part of your holiday spread, this recipe consistently delivers that comforting hit with zero fuss.