Slow Cooker Turkey Breast (Juicy, Tender & Easy)
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe is the perfect solution when you want tender, flavorful turkey without the stress of roasting a whole bird. Slow cooking keeps the turkey moist and juicy while allowing the herbs, vegetables, and broth to infuse deep, savory flavor.
Ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or even weeknight meals, this easy slow cooker turkey breast delivers classic comfort with minimal preparation and maximum results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Juicy, fall-apart turkey breast
Simple ingredients and hands-off cooking
Perfect for small gatherings or meal prep
No oven required
Great alternative to roasting
Ingredients
1 (3–4 pound) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, cut into chunks
2 stalks celery, cut into chunks
1 cup chicken broth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Turkey Breast
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, making sure the skin and meat are well coated.
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and garlic powder. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire turkey breast for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
Place the quartered onion, carrot chunks, and celery pieces into the bottom of the slow cooker. These vegetables create a flavorful base and help elevate the turkey so it cooks evenly.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables. This adds moisture and helps create a savory cooking liquid that can be spooned over the turkey when serving.
Step 4: Add the Turkey to the Slow Cooker
Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the vegetables, skin side up. Avoid submerging the turkey completely to keep the skin intact and the meat juicy.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Turkey
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:
On low for 6–7 hours
The turkey is done when it becomes tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part.
Step 6: Rest the Turkey
Once fully cooked, remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice the turkey breast against the grain and serve it with the cooked vegetables. Spoon the flavorful juices from the slow cooker over the turkey for extra moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker turkey breast pairs well with:
Mashed potatoes
Green beans or roasted vegetables
Stuffing or rice
Cranberry sauce
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheating: Warm gently with some cooking juices to keep the meat moist
Freezing: Turkey meat can be frozen for up to 2 months
Helpful Tips for Best Results
Use a bone-in turkey breast for more flavor and moisture
Always rest the turkey before slicing
Check temperature early to avoid overcooking
Save the juices for gravy or reheating leftovers
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, juicy turkey with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a small holiday meal or preparing a comforting family dinner, this easy slow cooker method ensures perfect results every time.