Print

Tender Overnight Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe with Herb Butter

slow cooker turkey breast - featured image

A simple, hands-off slow cooker recipe for tender, juicy turkey breast infused with flavorful herb butter. Perfect for easy holiday meals or any stress-free dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds turkey breast, skin-on or skinless
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon kosher salt)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken or turkey broth (240 ml)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub the surface with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Spread the herb butter evenly over the entire turkey breast, including under the skin if possible.
  4. Pour 1 cup of chicken or turkey broth into the bottom of the slow cooker.
  5. Place the turkey breast on a rack inside the slow cooker or directly in the broth if no rack is available.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and continue cooking if needed.
  8. Remove the turkey breast and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Slice the turkey breast against the grain into ½-inch thick slices and serve with pan juices or gravy.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness. Resting the turkey after cooking is crucial to retain moisture. For crispier skin, broil the turkey for a few minutes after slow cooking. You can add root vegetables under the turkey in the slow cooker for a complete meal. Fresh herbs are preferred, but dried herbs can be used at one-third the amount. Broth keeps the turkey moist and flavorful; a splash of white wine can add depth.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, herb butter turkey, easy holiday turkey, tender turkey breast, crockpot turkey recipe, juicy turkey breast, stress-free turkey