Print

Perfect Slow Cooker Herb Butter Turkey Breast – Easy & Juicy

perfect slow cooker herb butter turkey breast - featured image

This foolproof slow cooker turkey breast is incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to a herb butter that bastes the meat from the inside out. Perfect for holidays or any gathering, it frees up your oven and delivers tender, juicy turkey every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (57 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 2 celery stalks, cut into large chunks
  • 2 carrots, cut into large chunks

Instructions

  1. Take the turkey breast out of the fridge about 30 minutes before starting. Pat it completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Mash together with a fork until evenly distributed.
  3. Using your hands, gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast by sliding your fingers between the skin and the meat. Spread about half of the herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin. Spread the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey, including the underside.
  4. Place the quartered onion, celery chunks, and carrot chunks in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth.
  5. Set the turkey breast on top of the vegetables, breast side up. Put the lid on securely.
  6. Cook on low for 4-5 hours for a 5-7 pound turkey breast. Do not cook on high.
  7. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  8. Once the turkey reaches 165°F, carefully remove it from the slow cooker using tongs. Transfer to a cutting board and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 15-20 minutes.
  9. While the turkey rests, pour the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh strainer into a measuring cup or gravy boat. Discard the vegetables.
  10. After resting, carve the turkey breast against the grain into thick slices. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with some of the reserved cooking liquid.

Notes

For best results, ensure the turkey is fully thawed before cooking. Do not add extra broth; the turkey releases its own juices. For a crispier skin, sear the turkey in a hot skillet with oil before placing in the slow cooker. Let the turkey rest after cooking to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, herb butter turkey, juicy turkey, holiday turkey, easy turkey recipe