Description
This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare tender, juicy turkey with minimal effort. Seasoned with garlic, lemon zest, and fresh thyme, and slow-cooked alongside vegetables and apple wedges, the turkey develops a wonderful aroma and moist texture. After slow cooking, a quick broil crisps the skin for a perfect presentation. Ideal for a comforting family meal or holiday dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 (4-5 pound) boneless turkey breast OR 1 (6-pound) bone-in turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium lemon, zested and cut into 8 wedges
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 carrots, scrubbed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 red apple, cut into 8 wedges
- 8 sprigs fresh thyme
Liquids and Fat
- 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare and season the turkey: Pat the turkey dry thoroughly. In a bowl, mix kosher salt, ground black pepper, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly all over the turkey breast. Place the lemon wedges inside the slow cooker. Refrigerate the seasoned turkey for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to penetrate, preferably overnight.
- Arrange ingredients and start slow cooking: Place the carrots, celery, apple wedges, fresh thyme sprigs, and lemon wedges into the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the turkey breast on top of the vegetables. Pour the dry white wine or chicken broth carefully around the turkey, avoiding pouring directly over the meat to keep the seasoning intact. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the turkey. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C).
- Rest and crisp the turkey skin: Carefully remove the cooked turkey breast from the slow cooker and allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes. Preheat your oven broiler and place the turkey under the broiler for about 4 minutes to crisp and brown the skin. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Slice and serve: Slice the turkey breast evenly and serve warm. Accompany it with your favorite side dishes and optionally use the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to make a delicious gravy to enhance the meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the turkey overnight in the refrigerator after seasoning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness without overcooking.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken broth with dry white wine or vice versa based on flavor preference.
- You can add other aromatics like rosemary or sage if desired.
- The broiling step is optional but recommended for crispy skin.
- Leftover turkey keeps well and can be used in sandwiches or salads.
