Description
Succulent slow cooker turkey breast delivers a mouthwatering centerpiece for family gatherings, promising tender, juicy meat infused with herbal aromatics. Minimal prep and effortless cooking ensure a delightful meal that will impress guests with its rich, homestyle flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4.5 pounds bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
Seasoning Blend:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Aromatic Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, peeled and cut into thick slices
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
Gravy Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth (plus any drippings from the slow cooker)
Instructions
- Create a robust herb-infused butter by thoroughly blending softened butter with aromatic spices including garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until a uniform paste forms.
- Meticulously dry the turkey breast using paper towels, then delicately separate the skin from the meat. Generously distribute half of the herbed butter mixture underneath the skin and smooth the remaining butter across the exterior surface.
- Create a flavorful foundation in the slow cooker by layering sliced onions across the bottom. Carefully position the seasoned turkey breast atop the onion base.
- Securely cover the slow cooker and slow-roast on low temperature for approximately 5-6 hours. Monitor the internal temperature periodically, ensuring it reaches the safe threshold of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee complete cooking.
- For enhanced texture, transfer the cooked turkey to a baking sheet and activate the broiler. Crisp the skin by broiling for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Transform the cooking liquid into a rich gravy by straining the juices and discarding solid remnants. In a saucepan, melt butter and incorporate flour, creating a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in reserved turkey drippings and chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and develops a luxurious consistency.
- Allow the turkey breast to rest for 10 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute. Slice against the grain and serve alongside the freshly prepared gravy, presenting a succulent and aromatic main course.
Notes
- Customize herb butter by swapping dried herbs or adding your favorite spice blends for unique flavor profiles.
- Prevent dryness by monitoring internal temperature carefully and not overcooking the turkey breast.
- Enhance skin crispiness by patting turkey extremely dry before seasoning and using optional broiling step.
- Accommodate dietary restrictions by using gluten-free flour for gravy or replacing butter with olive oil or dairy-free alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 56 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg