Tender, juicy turkey breast made wonderfully effortless in the slow cooker—what could be better? This recipe brings robust herbs, bright citrus, and the melt-in-your-mouth texture you want in a wholesome family meal. Get ready to fill your home with tantalizing aromas and your table with cozy goodness.
Ingredients
- 7-pound bone-in turkey breast, skin on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
Begin by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels; this step ensures crispy, golden skin. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon juice. Rub this fragrant mixture onto every surface of the turkey breast, ensuring you get underneath the skin for maximum flavor.
Place the turkey breast into your slow cooker, skin side up. Pour the chicken or turkey broth around (not over) the turkey, so you don’t wash away that tasty rub. Cover and cook on low heat for about 6 to 7 hours, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F.
For a crispy finish, transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and place under the broiler on high for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving to lock in the juices.
Looking for a gravy? You can carefully skim off the excess fat in the slow cooker juices, whisk a slurry of cornstarch and water into the liquid, and simmer until it thickens to a lush sauce.
Nothing beats the convenience of this hearty, slow-cooked dish. It’s ideal for health-conscious folks who still want big flavor, perfect for a holiday or a simple Sunday dinner.
Feel free to experiment with different herb blends—swap rosemary and thyme for sage, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat. Whether you’re hosting friends or cooking for a small family, this recipe offers succulent turkey with minimal fuss, giving you a lovely centerpiece to share and savor.
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.
