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If you are looking for a comforting and foolproof way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful turkey without all the fuss, let me introduce you to the Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe. This dish perfectly balances the ease of slow cooking with the irresistible appeal of crispy, herb-seasoned skin, creating a meal that’s both hearty and elegant. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for tender turkey that melts in your mouth every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and ensuring a moist, succulent turkey breast. You don’t need a long list of fancy items, just straightforward pantry essentials that work harmoniously to bring out the best in your slow cooker masterpiece.
- Turkey breast (5-7 lbs, bone-in or boneless): The star of the dish, providing hearty, tender meat that absorbs all the wonderful herbs and seasonings.
- Olive oil or melted butter (2 tbsp): Helps lock in moisture and adds richness while aiding the seasoning stick to the skin.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors and helps tenderize the turkey.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a gentle spicy kick to complement the herb seasoning.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses the turkey with savory depth and warmth.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Brings a subtle sweetness and complexity to each bite.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Not only adds a pretty color but a smoky undertone that elevates the flavor profile.
- Dried thyme or rosemary (1 tsp): These classic herbs deliver that comforting, fragrant aroma and herbaceous flavor classic to roast turkey.
- Chicken or turkey broth (1 cup): Keeps the meat moist throughout the slow cooking process and adds savory depth.
How to Make Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Begin by patting your turkey breast dry with paper towels—this step is super important because a dry surface helps you achieve that much-desired crispy skin later on. Next, rub the entire bird with olive oil or melted butter, getting under the skin if you can manage it. This layer moisturizes the meat and acts as a glue for the seasoning blend.
Step 2: Season the Turkey
Mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and your choice of dried thyme or rosemary in a small bowl. Rub this fragrant mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure every inch is generously coated. This seasoning combo creates the signature herbaceous and comforting flavor that makes this Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker
Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the base of your slow cooker. This will help steam the turkey gently as it cooks, locking in moisture and keeping the meat tender. Place the seasoned breast inside the cooker, skin side up to keep the juices where they belong, ready to soak up all that delicious herb flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Turkey
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW. Allow the turkey breast to cook for 5 to 6 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C). The slow and steady cooking guarantees melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s impossible to achieve with a quick roast.
Step 5: Optional Broil for Crispy Skin
If you crave that crispy, golden skin that typically comes with oven roasting, here’s the secret: once the turkey is cooked through, transfer it to a baking sheet and pop it under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye so it browns beautifully without burning. This final step gives the turkey a gorgeous, crisp exterior that contrasts wonderfully with its juicy interior.
Step 6: Serve and Rest
It’s crucial to let your turkey rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This pause allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite incredibly juicy. After resting, carve your turkey breast and get ready to share a plate of homemade heaven!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate both presentation and flavor. Fresh thyme sprigs or a sprinkle of chopped parsley bring a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that echoes the seasoning. Lemon wedges are a lovely addition, too, adding a zesty, fresh contrast that awakens the palate.
Side Dishes
This turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a range of classic and creative sides. Think silky mashed potatoes, fragrant herb stuffing, or roasted root vegetables that soak up the herb-infused juices. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly, while buttery dinner rolls are always a hit for mopping up every last drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive but easy centerpiece, slice the turkey breast and arrange it artfully on a large platter adorned with fresh herbs and colorful roasted veggies. Alternatively, thinly sliced turkey can star in hearty sandwiches or wraps the next day, making this dish versatile beyond the first meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover turkey breast in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping the skin separate can help maintain its crispness before reheating.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe at a later date, slice or cube the meat and freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat your turkey in the oven covered with foil at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist. To revive some crispiness, you can briefly broil the skin on reheated slices, just as you did originally.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Both bone-in and boneless turkey breasts work well here. Bone-in tends to impart extra flavor and helps keep the meat juicy, but boneless cooks faster and is easier to carve. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Why is the broth necessary in the slow cooker?
The broth acts as a gentle steam bath, which keeps the turkey moist and tender throughout the slow cooking process. Without it, the meat could dry out or cook unevenly.
How can I ensure the skin gets crisp if using a slow cooker?
The slow cooker keeps everything juicy but does not brown or crisp the skin. Broiling the turkey for a few minutes at the end is essential—it gives you that beautiful, crispy skin that finishes off the dish perfectly.
Can I prepare this turkey breast in advance?
You can season the turkey breast the night before and keep it wrapped in the fridge to let the flavors deepen. Just bring it to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for a holiday meal?
Definitely! This Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe makes an excellent centerpiece for holidays and special gatherings. It’s flavorful, crowd-pleasing, and frees you up from oven duty during a busy day.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know the magic behind this Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe, I hope you’re inspired to bring this cozy, delicious meal into your kitchen. It’s a shining example of how simple ingredients and a bit of patience can deliver a truly memorable feast. Give it a try and prepare to impress your friends and family with every tender, crispy bite!
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Slow Cooker Herb-Seasoned Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting slow cooker turkey breast recipe offers a tender, juicy centerpiece perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Seasoned with a savory blend of herbs and spices and cooked low and slow in broth, the turkey remains moist and flavorful. For an optional crispy skin, a quick broil finishes the dish beautifully.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 1 (5-7 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Liquids
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and to promote browning later on.
- Apply Fat: Rub the olive oil or melted butter all over the turkey breast, making sure to get some under the skin if possible for added moisture and flavor.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme or rosemary to create an aromatic seasoning blend.
- Season the Turkey: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire turkey breast for balanced flavor throughout.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the base of your slow cooker to keep the turkey moist during cooking.
- Place Turkey in Slow Cooker: Put the seasoned turkey breast inside the slow cooker with the breast-side facing up to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 5-6 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the turkey reads 165°F (74°C), ensuring safe doneness.
- Optional Broil for Crispy Skin: For a golden, crispy exterior, transfer the cooked turkey to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, then slice and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- The broiling step is optional but adds a lovely crispy skin texture.
- You can substitute dried thyme with rosemary or vice versa depending on your preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
- If using a boneless turkey breast, cooking times may be slightly shorter; monitor the internal temperature closely.
