Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

Introduction

Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast is the epitome of ease and flavor, offering a juicy, tender turkey that practically cooks itself. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or holiday meals, this recipe takes the stress out of cooking, ensuring your turkey is tender and full of flavor without the need for constant attention. The slow cooking method allows the turkey to absorb all the delicious seasonings, resulting in a flavorful, incredibly moist dish.

I remember the first time I made this for a family holiday gathering, and everyone was blown away by how perfectly tender and juicy the turkey turned out. With minimal prep time, you’ll be able to enjoy a mouthwatering turkey that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether paired with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or a fresh salad, this dish is always the star of the show.

The best part? You don’t need to babysit the turkey as it cooks. Set it in the crockpot, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you focus on other tasks or relax with family. It’s the perfect choice for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive holiday meals, ensuring you get all the delicious flavors without the stress.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Holiday meals (like Thanksgiving or Christmas)
• Family gatherings
• Meal prepping
• Busy cooks or beginners in the kitchen

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

Here’s why Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast will become your go-to turkey recipe:

• Tender and Juicy: Cooking the turkey in a Crockpot allows it to remain moist and tender, even without the skin. The slow cooking process locks in all the juices, making every bite delicious.
• Minimal Effort: With just a few simple ingredients and the help of your Crockpot, you can set it and forget it. No need for constant basting or attention.
• Flavorful: The turkey absorbs the rich flavors of the herbs and spices, creating a savory and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Versatile: You can customize the seasoning and add extra ingredients to suit your preferences. The recipe can easily be adapted for different flavor profiles.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The turkey breast can be used in sandwiches, salads, or soups the next day, making it a great choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4-6 hours (depending on Crockpot settings)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories (depends on seasoning and additional ingredients)
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 1g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast:

• 3-4 lb boneless turkey breast (skinless or with skin, based on preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or 1 tablespoon honey for added flavor

Ingredient Highlights

• Boneless Turkey Breast: A boneless turkey breast is ideal for this recipe because it cooks more evenly and can be easily sliced for serving. You can also remove the skin to make the dish lighter, or leave it on for extra flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: A mix of rosemary, thyme, and sage gives the turkey a classic savory flavor. Garlic and onion powder enhance the richness without overpowering the meat.
• Olive Oil or Butter: This adds moisture to the turkey, helping it stay juicy while cooking in the Crockpot.
• Chicken Broth: The broth provides a flavorful base and keeps the turkey from drying out while slow-cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast:

Prepare the Turkey Breast:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your Crockpot with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil or melted butter all over the turkey, then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture into the meat to ensure even coverage.
3. Optional Glaze: If desired, rub a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or honey over the top of the turkey breast for an extra layer of flavor.

Cook the Turkey:

4. Place in Crockpot: Place the seasoned turkey breast into the Crockpot. Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) around the turkey, but not over the top. This will keep the turkey moist while it cooks.
5. Cover and Cook: Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set the cooker to low. Cook for 4-6 hours, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. The turkey should be tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Check for Doneness: Check the turkey after about 4 hours to ensure it’s cooking properly. If necessary, continue cooking for another 1-2 hours.

Rest and Serve:

7. Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey is done, remove it from the Crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist turkey.
8. Serve: Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

How to Serve Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Classic Sides: Pair it with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green beans for a traditional holiday meal.
• In Sandwiches: Slice the turkey thinly and serve it in sandwiches or wraps with your favorite condiments.
• As a Main Dish: Serve the turkey with roasted vegetables, salads, or a grain like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
• For Meal Prep: Use leftovers in soups, salads, or as a protein in grain bowls throughout the week.

Additional Tips for Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

Here are some tips to ensure your Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast is perfect every time:

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the turkey is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking turkey can make it dry, so keep an eye on the cooking time and check after 4 hours to avoid it becoming too dry.
• Add Veggies for Extra Flavor: Add onions, carrots, and celery to the broth for added flavor and a side of cooked vegetables.
• Let the Turkey Rest: Allowing the turkey to rest before slicing ensures the juices are retained, keeping the meat moist.
• Store Leftovers: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Use the Broth for Gravy: The broth left in the Crockpot can be used as a base for gravy. Simply thicken it with a little cornstarch or flour.

Recipe Variations for Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast:

• Garlic Herb Turkey Breast: Add fresh minced garlic and additional fresh herbs like parsley and thyme for a more intense flavor.
• Citrus Turkey Breast: Rub the turkey with orange or lemon zest and juice, and add slices of citrus to the Crockpot for a fresh twist.
• Spicy Turkey Breast: Add chili powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Maple Glazed Turkey: Instead of Dijon mustard, rub the turkey with maple syrup for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Apple Cider Turkey: Use apple cider instead of broth for a slightly sweet, fruity flavor.
• Balsamic Glazed Turkey: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the turkey before cooking for a tangy finish.
• Herbed Garlic Butter Turkey: Stuff the turkey breast with garlic butter and fresh herbs before cooking for extra richness.
• Mediterranean Turkey: Use Mediterranean seasonings like oregano, basil, and garlic, and add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for flavor.
• Smoky Turkey Breast: Add smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke for a smoky, barbecue-inspired flavor.
• Crockpot Turkey with Vegetables: Add diced potatoes, carrots, and onions to the Crockpot for a one-pot meal.

Freezing and Storage for Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

• Freezing: This turkey freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Special Equipment for Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast easier:

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker): A slow cooker is essential for this recipe. Ensure it’s large enough to fit the turkey breast comfortably.
• Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures the turkey is cooked to the perfect temperature without overcooking.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the turkey breast easy and ensures clean, even cuts.
• Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board to slice the turkey after it rests.
• Storage Containers: Airtight containers for storing leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast

1. Can I use a bone-in turkey breast instead of boneless?
   Yes, you can use a bone-in turkey breast, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Can I cook this turkey breast on high in the Crockpot?
   Yes, you can cook it on high for about 2-3 hours, but the turkey may not be as tender as when cooked on low.
3. Can I add vegetables to the Crockpot with the turkey?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions for a one-pot meal. Just add them around the turkey and make sure there’s enough liquid to cook everything.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the turkey in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the Crockpot or in the oven before serving.
5. Can I use frozen turkey breast?
   It’s best to thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator before cooking it in the Crockpot to ensure even cooking.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast is the ultimate way to enjoy a tender, juicy turkey with minimal effort. The slow cooking process ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, making it perfect for everything from holiday feasts to casual family dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, you can set it and forget it, allowing your Crockpot to work its magic and deliver a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

This recipe is perfect for those looking for an easy yet flavorful dish that doesn’t require hours of preparation. Whether served with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or a fresh vegetable medley, the Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast is a versatile and stress-free addition to any meal.

I’d love to see your version of this dish! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your cooking creations. Happy cooking!