Experience the ultimate in cozy, hands-off cooking with our Maple-Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast. This recipe transforms a humble 3-pound turkey breast into a moist, flavorful centerpiece without breaking a sweat—and, most importantly, without tying up your oven.
Ingredients
- 1 (3-pound) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
Begin by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels—this little step will help the skin crisp up later on. In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, maple syrup, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this sweet-savory mixture generously all over the turkey breast, making sure to get into all the nooks under the skin.
Next, pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. Gently place the turkey breast inside, skin side up, so it rests above the liquid on the bottom. Cover and cook on Low for about 5–6 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast reads 165°F (74°C). If you have time, occasionally spoon the juices over the turkey breast as it cooks for even more flavor.
For an extra-crisp finish, place the turkey breast on a baking sheet or in a shallow pan. Slide it under the broiler for around 3–4 minutes, watching closely so the skin turns golden brown without burning.
Let the turkey breast rest for 10 minutes before slicing to preserve its juiciness. Serve with your favorite sides and a drizzle of those delicious slow cooker juices.
This comforting turkey breast recipe is perfect for small holiday gatherings or a stress-free Sunday dinner. It’s a go-to for meal preppers seeking lean protein throughout the week and a great option for anyone looking to cut down on oven use. Add extra herbs or substitute honey for the maple syrup based on your preference—either way, you’ll end up with a tender turkey dish that’s fit for family, friends, or the everyday cook seeking something special. Enjoy!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
