Slow Cooker Turkey Breast – Looking to enjoy a turkey dish, without the hassle of using an oven? Look no further than this amazing Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe! It offers succulent meat, crispy skin, and a delightful gravy. Everything you would expect from a turkey dish. Imagine the mouthwatering combination of garlic, thyme, onion, and of course the star of the show. The turkey.
I still remember the first time I made this recipe. It was a chilly evening. I craved something comforting but didn’t have the patience for a lengthy roast in the oven. As the tantalizing aroma wafted through my home, my husband walked in. Immediately recognized that smell. His eyes lit up with excitement. And let me tell you about my child’s reaction. It was priceless! One bite and their eyes widened in amazement as they exclaimed “Mom this is incredible!” That’s when I knew this recipe was something special.
What makes this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast truly delightful?
Indulge, in the simplicity of this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe that promises a tender and juicy meal. Unlike traditional methods this dish ensures that every part of your turkey is moist while also giving it that crispy skin we all love. If that wasn’t enticing already the handcrafted gravy, infused with the tastes of garlic, onion and thyme brings an array of flavors that elevate each mouthful into a delightful culinary adventure. It’s more than a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor a gourmet experience, within the confines of your own home.
What You Need To Make This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe?
Turkey Breast: To achieve a juicy outcome and a crispy exterior it’s best to choose skin-on turkey whether bone-in or boneless. If you’re using frozen turkey make sure to thaw it so that its natural flavors and textures are preserved.
Garlic: Instead of mincing or crushing garlic, slicing it horizontally will enhance its essence throughout the cooking process. This results in an infused turkey that pays homage to the flavors of this humble bulb.
Onion: Let’s take the rustic approach! Using an onion not only adds depth to the flavors but also imparts a caramel undertone elevating the overall profile of the dish.
Thyme: While fresh thyme sprigs bring a garden aroma don’t hesitate to use dried thyme leaves if that’s what you have on hand. Their concentrated essence shines through beautifully adding a timeless touch, to the turkey.
The Rub: This is where the magic happens! The combination of garlic powder, onion powder and paprika creates a symphony of flavors. The olive oil acts as the medium, for coating the turkey ensuring that each bite is bursting with deliciousness.
Gravy: For a fuller-bodied gravy it’s recommended to use chicken stock instead of water. The mixture of butter and flour known as roux adds thickness to the gravy. Creates a texture that is incredibly tempting. The perfect balance of salt and pepper, at the end brings all the flavors and aromas together transforming this gravy into a symphony, for your taste buds.
Steps To Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast:
Step 1: Begin with the passion of mixing all the Rub ingredients in a bowl. You’re looking for a consistency akin to a wet paste.
Step 2: Tenderly pat your turkey dry using paper towels, treating it like a canvas as you generously apply the Rub. Give extra love to the side and top.
Step 3: In your slow cooker, lay down the garlic, onion, and thyme as the bed for your turkey breast to rest on.
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Step 4: Cook on LOW for 6 hours (avoid the HIGH setting). Aim for an internal temperature of 165F/75C. Check it around 5 hours, just to be safe.
Step 5: After your turkey’s slow cooker journey, allow it a 20-minute relaxation period.
Crisping that Beautiful Skin:
Step 6: Fire up your grill/broiler to high and position an oven shelf about a foot from the heat.
Step 7: Transfer the turkey to a heatproof dish and broil for 3-5 minutes till you see the skin turning crispy. Keep a watchful eye; it crisps up faster than you’d think!
Gravy Goodness:
Step 8: Follow the steps provided, but remember, it’s the love and care you pour into it that takes it to the next level. Ensure it’s thick but not too thick, and season to your heart’s content.
Tip:
To elevate the richness of your gravy, once you’ve strained the liquid from the slow cooker, squeeze out the softened garlic cloves from their skin and mash them into a paste. Incorporate this garlic paste back into your gravy during the simmering process. This not only thickens the gravy slightly but also intensifies its flavor, adding a subtle, roasted garlic undertone that pairs exquisitely with the turkey. It’s a simple step that can transform your gravy from great to gourmet!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
Of course! Using dried thyme instead of fresh is absolutely fine. Although fresh thyme adds a burst of flavor dried thyme can be a substitute.
What if my turkey is frozen?
Not to worry if your turkey is frozen. Just make sure to thaw it completely before you begin cooking.
Is broiling necessary?
Broiling is recommended to achieve that crispy skin finish. However, if you’re pressed for time or prefer a softer skin feel free to skip this step.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 kilograms / 4 pound turkey breast thawed if frozen, with skin, bone-in or boneless
- 1 garlic head sliced horizontally
- 1 onion any of brown, yellow, or white variety, unpeeled and halved
- 5 fresh thyme sprigs or 2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
Rub:
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 5 grinds of fresh black pepper
- Between 1 and 1/2 to 2 tablespoon olive oil
Gravy:
- Chicken stock or broth or even water for topping up the liquid
- 4 tablespoon 50 grams butter
- 1/4 c 35 grams flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients, for the rub until they form a moist paste. Use paper towels to dry off the turkey and apply the rub evenly focusing on the top and sides.
- In your cooker place halved cloves, onion and thyme with their faces down. Then place the turkey breast on top to elevate it.
- Set your slow cooker to LOW heat and let it cook for about 6 hours or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F/75°C.
- Once cooked carefully remove the turkey from the slow cooker. Allow it to rest for approximately 20 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or broiler to high heat. Place the turkey in a dish that can withstand temperatures and broil it for 3 to 5 minutes until its skin becomes crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Pour out all of the liquid from your slow cooker into a jug through a strainer. If you have more than 2 cups of liquid add some chicken broth to make up for it. In a saucepan melt butter. Then add flour to create a paste. Gradually pour in the liquid while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let it simmer until the gravy thickens then season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Serve your turkey with gravy, on the side. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
