How to Cook Moist, Juicy Boneless Turkey Breast in a Crockpot

Cooking boneless turkey breast in a slow cooker or crockpot is an easy, foolproof method for getting tender, juicy meat infused with flavor. The gentle, moist heat of the crockpot prevents the lean turkey breast from drying out, while also breaking down the proteins for tenderness. With just a few simple prep steps and ingredients, you can make the most flavorful and delicious crockpot turkey breast ever.

Benefits of Crockpot Turkey Breast

There are many advantages to using a crockpot for cooking boneless turkey breast

• Requires minimal prep time – no lengthy brining or thawing needed
• Guarantees moist, tender meat without fail or drying out
• Allows the turkey to baste in its own juices for fantastic flavor
• Cooks unattended while you focus on sides and other tasks
• Provides leftovers for casseroles, soups, sandwiches, and more
• Frees up oven space for other dishes during busy holidays
• Infuses spices and aromatics into the turkey as it cooks

With these benefits, it’s easy to see why slow cooker turkey breast is perfect for both small holiday meals and easy weeknight dinners

Picking the Right Turkey Breast

When selecting a turkey breast for the crockpot you have a few options

• Boneless or bone-in: Boneless cooks quicker; allow 6+ hours for bone-in
• Skin-on or skinless: Skin-on has more flavor; crisp skin at end
• Single breast or double breast: Double needs more time; adjust accordingly
• Brined or unbrined: Brined is more flavorful; use less salt if brined

For best results, choose a 2-3 lb boneless, skin-on, unbrined turkey breast. Figure about 1 pound of meat per person.

Step-by-Step Crockpot Turkey Breast

Follow these simple steps for juicy crockpot success:

1. Prep the Crockpot: Grease crock and add aromatics like onions, carrots, garlic.

2. Pat Turkey Dry and Coat in Rub: Make a rub by mixing butter, herbs, salt, pepper. Pat turkey dry so rub sticks.

3. Cook on Low 4-6 Hours: Place coated turkey in crockpot on top of aromatics. Cook covered on LOW 4-6 hours until 165°F.

4. Rest, Carve, and Crisp Skin: Let turkey rest 15 minutes before slicing. Broil skin-side up 2-5 minutes to crisp.

5. Make Gravy: Use flavorful pan drippings to easily make gravy.

That’s all there is to it! Follow timing guidelines based on breast size and use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Delicious Seasoning and Flavor Variations

While a simple salt and pepper rub works fine, get creative with spices, herbs, and aromatics.

Spice and Herb Ideas:

• Rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano, paprika, cumin, chili powder, jerk seasoning

Aromatics:

• Lemons, garlic, onion, celery, carrots, broth or wine

Flavor Profiles:

• Italian – basil, oregano, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes
• Mexican – cumin, chili powder, lime, cilantro
• Moroccan – cumin, cinnamon, curry, apricot jam
• Greek – lemon, oregano, parsley, garlic

Mix and match flavors to suit your taste or complement other dishes. Turkey takes on flavors easily.

Tips for the Best Results

Follow these handy tips for moist, flavorful crockpot turkey breast:

• Grease crockpot well to prevent sticking

• Pat turkey dry so rub adheres and flavors penetrate

• Resist opening crockpot; trapped steam keeps turkey moist

• Use meat thermometer; cook to 165°F

• Let rest 15 minutes before slicing for juicy meat

• Add broth or wine to cook if breast seems dry

• Cook stuffing separately; unsafe to stuff poultry in crockpot

• Adjust cook times based on breast size; less time for boneless

With minimal effort, you’ll enjoy fantastic turkey breast any night of the week thanks to your crockpot!

Perfect Pairings and Leftover Ideas

For easy sides, try pairing crockpot turkey breast with:

• Mashed or roasted potatoes
• Green beans, Brussels sprouts, or roasted veggies
• Stuffing or cornbread cooked outside turkey
• Cranberry sauce or gravy from pan drippings

Leftovers are great for casseroles, soups, sandwiches, and more. Be sure to refrigerate within 2 hours and freeze for longer storage.

Common Crockpot Turkey Questions

Can you cook a frozen breast in the crockpot?

No, always fully thaw turkey in the fridge 1-2 days before cooking.

Can I cook turkey breast ahead of time?

Yes, but avoid overcooking. Cook to 150°F then reheat gently to 165°F before serving.

How can I prevent dry turkey breast?

Follow recommended cook times and use meat thermometer for doneness. Add extra broth to the crockpot if needed.

What if my breast is really large?

For extra large 10+ lb turkey breasts, cook up to 8 hours on low until 165°F internal temperature.

Moist, Flavorful Crockpot Turkey Breast Made Easy

Cooking boneless turkey breast in the crockpot makes getting a flavorful, juicy entrée easy any time of year. With minimal hands-on effort, your slow cooker does the work while you focus on sides and other tasks. Follow proper thawing, seasoning, temperature, and resting tips for perfect results. Soon you’ll discover how easy and delicious crockpot turkey breast can be!