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December 10, 2024
If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free way to prepare turkey breast, look no further than your slow cooker. Slow cooking allows the turkey breast to become tender, juicy, and full of flavor, while also giving you the freedom to go about your day without worrying about constantly checking on the oven. Whether you’re having a small gathering or just want to enjoy turkey without all the fuss, cooking a turkey breast in the slow cooker is the perfect solution.
Why choose a slow cooker?
Using a slow cooker to cook turkey breast offers a number of benefits. First, it allows the turkey to cook slowly at a low temperature, which helps to retain the moisture and tenderness of the meat. Second, it frees up your oven for other dishes or allows you to simply enjoy the convenience of not having to use it at all. Finally, a slow cooker is perfect for those who may be intimidated by cooking a whole turkey, as it takes the guesswork out of timing and ensures a perfectly cooked turkey breast every time.
What you’ll need:
– 1 turkey breast, boneless and skinless
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Seasonings of your choice (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or poultry seasoning)
– Vegetables (optional, such as carrots, onions, or potatoes)
– Slow cooker
– Meat thermometer
With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a delicious turkey breast without all the stress and hassle. Let’s get started!
Preparation and Ingredients for Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
When it comes to cooking a turkey breast in the slow cooker, preparation is key. Here’s what you’ll need and how to get started:
Ingredients:
| 1 turkey breast, bone-in or boneless |
| 2 tablespoons olive oil |
| 1 tablespoon garlic powder |
| 1 tablespoon onion powder |
| 1 tablespoon paprika |
| 1 tablespoon dried thyme |
| 1 tablespoon dried rosemary |
| 1 teaspoon salt |
| 1/2 teaspoon black pepper |
| 1 cup chicken broth |
Preparation:
1. Start by rinsing the turkey breast under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to create a spice rub.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the turkey breast on all sides until nicely seared.
5. Once the turkey breast is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker.
6. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, around the turkey breast.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook the turkey breast on low for 6-8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
8. Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
By following these simple steps and using the right ingredients, you’ll be able to prepare a delicious and tender turkey breast in the slow cooker.
Gather and Measure the Ingredients
Before you start cooking the turkey breast in the slow cooker, gather all the necessary ingredients and measure them out. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 boneless turkey breast (around 2-3 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the gravy)
Having all the ingredients ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Make sure to double-check the measurements to ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your turkey breast.
Prepare the Slow Cooker and Turkey Breast
Before you begin cooking the turkey breast in the slow cooker, it’s important to properly prepare both the cooker and the turkey breast itself.
Step 1: Clean the slow cooker – Thoroughly wash the slow cooker with warm soapy water. Rinse it well and dry it completely before use.
Step 2: Choose the right size – Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to fit the size of your turkey breast. A 4 to 6-quart slow cooker generally works well for a turkey breast up to 6 pounds.
Step 3: Season the turkey breast – Rub your turkey breast with your desired seasonings. Popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage. You can also use a pre-made turkey seasoning blend.
Step 4: Prepare the slow cooker – Place a heat-safe rack or aluminum foil balls at the bottom of the slow cooker to elevate the turkey breast. This helps promote even cooking and prevents the turkey from sitting in its juices.
Step 5: Add liquid – Pour about ½ to 1 cup of liquid into the bottom of the slow cooker. This can be chicken or turkey broth, water, apple cider, or even white wine. The liquid will add moisture and flavor to the turkey breast.
Step 6: Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker – Gently place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the rack or foil balls, ensuring it is sitting above the liquid. If needed, you can also place the breast directly on top of vegetables like carrots, onions, or celery for added flavor.
Step 7: Cover and set the cooking time – Place the lid securely on the slow cooker and set the cooking time and temperature according to the recipe you are following. Slow cooking times for turkey breast can range from 4 to 8 hours on low heat, depending on the size and desired tenderness.
Note: It’s important to follow the recommended cooking times and temperature to ensure the turkey breast is cooked thoroughly and safe to eat.
Now that your slow cooker and turkey breast are prepared, you can start the cooking process. Enjoy a delicious and tender turkey breast prepared with the convenience of a slow cooker!
Cooking Process for Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Slow cookers are an excellent way to cook a turkey breast, as they help retain moisture and offer convenience. Here is a step-by-step process for cooking a delicious turkey breast in a slow cooker:
1. Start by preparing the turkey breast. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs of your choice.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add some oil or butter. Place the turkey breast in the skillet and sear it on all sides until nicely browned. This step is optional but can help enhance the flavor of the turkey.
3. Next, prepare the slow cooker. Place a rack or a layer of vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and celery, at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will elevate the turkey breast and prevent it from sitting in its juices.
4. Carefully transfer the seared turkey breast to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the rack or vegetables.
5. Add some liquid to the slow cooker. You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. The liquid will help create steam and keep the turkey breast moist during the cooking process.
6. Set the slow cooker to the desired cooking temperature. A low temperature, around 160°F (71°C), is recommended for a tender and juicy turkey breast. However, you can also cook it on high for a shorter amount of time.
7. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and let the turkey breast cook for several hours. The cooking time will depend on the size of the turkey breast and the temperature setting. As a general guideline, cook a 2-3 pound turkey breast on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
8. After the cooking time is complete, check the internal temperature of the turkey breast using a meat thermometer. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
9. Once the turkey breast is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and flavorful turkey breast.
10. Serve the slow cooker turkey breast with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Cooking a turkey breast in a slow cooker is a simple and hassle-free method that delivers tender and flavorful results. Give it a try for your next holiday gathering or family meal!
Add the Seasonings and Liquid
After placing the turkey breast in the slow cooker, it’s time to add the seasonings and liquid. This step will infuse the meat with delicious flavors and help keep it moist during the cooking process.
You can use a variety of seasonings to enhance the taste of your turkey breast. Some popular choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, and paprika. Feel free to experiment with the seasonings to create a flavor profile that suits your preferences.
Seasoning Suggestions:
| Seasoning | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon |
Once you’ve added the seasonings, it’s time to pour in the liquid. This will help keep the turkey breast moist while it cooks. The liquid can be water, chicken broth, or even a combination of both. Generally, you’ll want to use enough liquid to partially submerge the turkey breast but not completely cover it.
Cooking the turkey breast in a slow cooker with the right seasonings and liquid will result in a flavorful and tender dish that will be a hit at your next gathering.
Q&A
What ingredients do I need to cook a turkey breast in the slow cooker?
You will need a turkey breast, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and pepper.
How long does it take to cook a turkey breast in the slow cooker?
The cooking time will depend on the size of the turkey breast. As a general guide, it will take about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat.
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker?
No, it is not recommended to cook a frozen turkey breast in the slow cooker. Thaw the turkey breast completely before cooking it in the slow cooker.
What can I do with the leftover juices from cooking the turkey breast?
You can strain the juices and use them to make a delicious gravy to serve with the turkey breast. Alternatively, you can use the juices as a base for a flavorful soup or stew.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the turkey breast?
Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions to the slow cooker along with the turkey breast for added flavor. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
What is the cooking time for turkey breast in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for turkey breast in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size of the turkey breast and the heat setting of your slow cooker. However, generally, it will take around 4-6 hours on the low setting or 2-4 hours on the high setting.
Can I put stuffing inside the turkey breast while cooking it in a slow cooker?
No, it is not recommended to put stuffing inside the turkey breast while cooking it in a slow cooker. Stuffing requires higher heat to cook properly and it may not reach a safe temperature if cooked inside the slow cooker. It is best to cook the stuffing separately.