This Crock Pot Turkey Breast recipe offers a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy turkey without the need for an oven. Ideal for smaller gatherings or meal prepping, this dish allows you to free up oven space for other side dishes. The slow cooking process ensures a moist and delicious turkey breast every time.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 bone-in turkey breast (approximately 5 pounds), thawed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 onion, halved
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Prepare the Turkey: Ensure the turkey breast is fully thawed. Remove the skin if desired.
Layer Vegetables: Place chopped carrots, celery, and half of the onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over the vegetables.
Season the Turkey: In a bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring even coverage.
Add Butter and Onion: Place the remaining half of the onion and 2 tablespoons of butter inside the cavity of the turkey breast.
Place in Slow Cooker: Position the turkey breast-side down on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and pour over the turkey.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for approximately 5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrients

Per serving (1 serving, approximately 4 oz):

Calories: 380
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 184mg
Sodium: 1285mg
Potassium: 842mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0.2g
Sugars: 0.2g
Protein: 73g
Vitamin A: 81 IU
Vitamin C: 1mg
Calcium: 54mg
Iron: 2mg

The Benefits of Cooking Turkey Breast in a Crock Pot

Using a Crock Pot for turkey breast offers several advantages over traditional roasting or grilling methods. One of the primary benefits is convenience. The Crock Pot allows you to prepare your turkey breast early in the day, set it to cook, and then forget about it until it’s time to serve. There’s no need to monitor the cooking process, making it perfect for busy days or large gatherings.

Another major benefit of using a Crock Pot is that it preserves the moisture in the turkey. Unlike roasting in an oven, where the high heat can cause the meat to dry out, the slow Crock Pot , even temperature ensures the turkey stays tender and juicy throughout. The turkey breast practically falls apart when you slice it, providing the perfect texture for sandwiches, salads, or as the centerpiece of your dinner plate.

Additionally, cooking in a Crock Pot allows the turkey to absorb all the flavors from the seasonings, vegetables, and broth. As the turkey cooks slowly, it soaks in the savory goodness, creating a depth of flavor that’s difficult to achieve with faster cooking methods. The result is a turkey breast that is not only moist but also richly seasoned.

Perfect for Various Occasions

A Crock Pot turkey breast is an incredibly versatile dish, suitable for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, preparing a family dinner, or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe can be easily scaled to meet your needs.

Holidays and Special Occasions: While turkey is typically associated with holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, preparing a turkey breast in a Crock Pot is a great way to enjoy this classic dish without the stress of roasting a whole turkey. It frees up your oven for other dishes and reduces the amount of time spent in the kitchen.
Family Dinners: A turkey breast can easily feed a family, with leftovers perfect for sandwiches or soups the next day. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer turkey but don’t want to deal with a large bird.
Meal Prep: The Crock Pot turkey breast is ideal for meal prepping. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, offering multiple servings for the week. Simply slice it up and incorporate it into salads, wraps, or bowls for easy, nutritious meals.
Casual Gatherings: If you’re hosting a casual dinner or potluck, a slow cooker turkey breast provides an easy solution. It doesn’t require much attention during the cooking process, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the meal or entertaining your guests.

How to Make the Most of Leftovers

One of the biggest advantages of cooking a turkey breast in a slow cooker is the abundance of leftovers. Turkey leftovers can be used in a variety of creative ways, ensuring that no part of the bird goes to waste.

Sandwiches and Wraps: Turkey slices make the perfect filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add a little cranberry sauce, a slice of cheese, and some greens for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Turkey Salad: Shredded turkey can be mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and herbs to create a hearty turkey salad. This makes for an easy lunch option, especially if you’re on the go.
Turkey Soup or Stew: The leftover turkey can also be used in soups or stews. Simply add it to a pot with broth, vegetables, and seasonings for a warming, comforting meal. Leftover turkey stock can also be made by simmering the carcass in water with herbs, making for a flavorful base for future meals.
Turkey Tacos or Quesadillas: For a fun twist, leftover turkey can be used in tacos or quesadillas. Simply heat the turkey with some taco seasoning, add it to tortillas, and top with your favorite fillings for a quick and tasty meal.

Why Choose Turkey Breast Over Other Cuts

While turkey thighs or whole turkeys are often chosen for roasting, turkey breast offers several advantages that make it a preferred choice for some cooks. Turkey breast is leaner than other cuts, such as thighs or drumsticks, making it a healthier option for those looking to reduce fat intake. Additionally, turkey breast is relatively easy to cook and can be roasted, grilled, or slow-cooked with excellent results.

The meat is also incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re preparing a simple roast dinner, a turkey sandwich, or a turkey casserole, the mild flavor of turkey breast pairs well with a variety of seasonings and ingredients. For those who enjoy a leaner meat without sacrificing flavor, turkey breast is an ideal choice.

How to Serve Crock Pot Turkey Breast

Once your slow-cooked turkey breast is ready, there are many ways to serve it. For a traditional meal, pair the turkey with mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy. The rich, savory flavors of the turkey complement these classic sides, making it a well-rounded dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. For a lighter option, serve the turkey with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. The lean protein from the turkey breast makes for a satisfying meal, and the fresh vegetables add a burst of color and nutrients.

Conclusion

The Crock Pot Turkey Breast recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering convenience, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday, a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers a moist, tender turkey breast every time. The slow cooking process enhances the turkey’s flavor, making it a standout dish on any table.

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