Effortless Elegance: Herbed Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

Turkey breast is a versatile and lean protein, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. While roasting a whole turkey can be intimidating, using a slow cooker to prepare turkey breast is incredibly simple and yields a moist, flavorful result every time. This herbed slow cooker turkey breast recipe is not only easy to prepare but also infuses the meat with a delightful blend of aromatic herbs, making it a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details!

Why Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?

Before we get into the recipe, let’s explore why using a slow cooker for turkey breast is a fantastic idea:

* **Moisture Retention:** Slow cooking ensures the turkey breast remains incredibly moist and tender. The low and slow cooking process prevents the meat from drying out, which can often happen with roasting.
* **Hands-Off Cooking:** Once you’ve prepped the ingredients and placed them in the slow cooker, you can practically forget about it for several hours. This makes it ideal for busy days when you don’t have time to constantly monitor the oven.
* **Flavor Infusion:** Slow cooking allows the herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the turkey breast, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic dish.
* **Easy Carving:** The slow-cooked turkey breast is so tender that it practically falls apart, making carving a breeze.
* **Consistent Results:** Slow cookers are known for providing consistent cooking temperatures, ensuring that your turkey breast cooks evenly throughout.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious herbed slow cooker turkey breast:

* **Turkey Breast:** 3-5 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast. Boneless is recommended for easier carving, but bone-in can also be used (adjust cooking time accordingly).
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons, for browning the turkey breast (optional but recommended).
* **Fresh Herbs:**
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
* (Dried herbs can be substituted if fresh aren’t available – use 1 teaspoon of each dried herb.)
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced.
* **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped.
* **Chicken Broth:** 1 cup (low sodium preferred).
* **Lemon:** 1 lemon, juiced and zested.
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons, melted.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Optional:**
* Carrots, celery, and potatoes, chopped (for cooking alongside the turkey).
* 1/2 cup white wine.
* Bay leaf.

Equipment Needed

* **Slow Cooker:** A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is recommended.
* **Large Skillet:** For searing the turkey breast (optional).
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables and herbs.
* **Knife:** A sharp knife for preparing the ingredients.
* **Measuring Spoons and Cups:** For accurate ingredient measurement.
* **Citrus Zester and Juicer:** For the lemon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect herbed slow cooker turkey breast:

**Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast**

1. **Pat Dry:** Remove the turkey breast from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help it brown better if you choose to sear it.
2. **Season Generously:** In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage (or dried herbs). Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Rub this herb mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Get under any flaps of meat.

**Step 2: Sear the Turkey Breast (Optional)**

*While searing is optional, it adds a beautiful color and enhances the flavor of the turkey breast.*

1. **Heat Olive Oil:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. **Sear the Turkey Breast:** Carefully place the turkey breast in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. This step is all about adding color; you don’t need to cook the turkey through.
3. **Transfer to Slow Cooker:** Once seared, transfer the turkey breast to the slow cooker.

**Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker**

1. **Add Vegetables (Optional):** If you’re using carrots, celery, and potatoes, place them at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will create a bed for the turkey breast and allow them to cook in the flavorful juices.
2. **Add Onion:** Sprinkle the chopped onion over the vegetables (or directly into the bottom of the slow cooker if not using vegetables).
3. **Pour in Chicken Broth:** Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. You can also add 1/2 cup of white wine for added flavor if desired.
4. **Add Bay Leaf (Optional):** If using, tuck a bay leaf into the slow cooker.

**Step 4: Cook the Turkey Breast**

1. **Place Turkey Breast in Slow Cooker:** Place the seasoned and seared (or un-seared) turkey breast on top of the vegetables (or directly into the broth).
2. **Drizzle with Melted Butter:** Drizzle the melted butter over the turkey breast. This will help keep it moist and add richness.
3. **Cover and Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the turkey breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the breast.

**Step 5: Rest and Carve**

1. **Remove from Slow Cooker:** Once the turkey breast is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Reserve the cooking liquid in the slow cooker – this will be used for gravy.
2. **Rest the Turkey:** Cover the turkey breast loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful turkey.
3. **Carve and Serve:** Carve the turkey breast against the grain into thin slices. Serve immediately.

Making the Gravy

Don’t let those flavorful juices in the slow cooker go to waste! Here’s how to make a simple and delicious gravy:

**Ingredients:**

* Reserved cooking liquid from the slow cooker
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Strain the Liquid:** Strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan, discarding the solids (vegetables, herbs, etc.).
2. **Melt Butter:** In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. **Whisk in Flour:** Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. **Gradually Add Liquid:** Slowly whisk in the strained cooking liquid, a little at a time, until the gravy is smooth and lump-free.
5. **Simmer and Thicken:** Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally.
6. **Season to Taste:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Serve:** Serve the gravy alongside the sliced turkey breast.

Serving Suggestions

This herbed slow cooker turkey breast is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

* **Classic Dinner:** Serve with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and your favorite vegetable side dishes.
* **Sandwiches:** Use the sliced turkey breast to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite toppings.
* **Salads:** Add the turkey breast to salads for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
* **Tacos or Wraps:** Shred the turkey breast and use it as a filling for tacos or wraps.
* **Casseroles:** Incorporate the turkey breast into casseroles for a hearty and satisfying dish.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to customize this recipe to your liking:

* **Bone-In Turkey Breast:** If using a bone-in turkey breast, increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low or 30-60 minutes on high. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
* **Different Herbs:** Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, marjoram, or savory.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a little heat.
* **Bacon:** Lay a few strips of bacon over the turkey breast before cooking for added flavor and moisture.
* **Brown Sugar:** A light coating of brown sugar before cooking will help carmelize the breast and give a sweeter taste.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add other vegetables of your choice to cook alongside the turkey breast, such as sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts.
* **Citrus Variations:** Substitute orange or grapefruit juice for lemon juice for a different citrus flavor profile.
* **Gluten-Free Gravy:** Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy for a gluten-free option.
* **Thickening the Gravy:** You can also thicken the gravy with a slurry of cornstarch and water if you prefer. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk into the gravy during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Doneness:** Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, avoiding the bone. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Dry Brining:** For an even more flavorful and juicy turkey breast, consider dry brining it 12-24 hours before cooking. To dry brine, rub the turkey breast with a mixture of salt, sugar, and your favorite herbs and spices. Then, place it in the refrigerator, uncovered, for the specified time. Rinse off the brine before cooking. A dry brine works better than a wet brine for turkey breast that cooks in a slow cooker.
* **Adjust Salt:** Be mindful of the salt content of your broth. If using regular broth, you may need to reduce or omit the salt in the herb mixture. Taste the gravy before adding any additional salt.
* **Storage:** Leftover turkey breast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or oven. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked turkey breast for up to 2-3 months. Let thaw completely before reheating.
* **Using the Slow Cooker Liner:** To make clean up easier, use a slow cooker liner. Simply discard the liner after you remove the turkey breast and gravy, and you will have a clean slow cooker.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* **Serving Size:** 1 slice (about 4 ounces)
* **Calories:** 200-250
* **Protein:** 30-35 grams
* **Fat:** 5-10 grams
* **Carbohydrates:** 2-5 grams
* **Fiber:** 0-1 gram

Conclusion

This herbed slow cooker turkey breast recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy turkey any time of year. The slow cooker ensures a moist and tender result, while the aromatic herbs infuse the meat with incredible flavor. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a truly effortless and elegant meal! Happy cooking!