If you’re longing for a meal that brings comfort, flavor, and that irresistible crispiness on top, you’ve got to try this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe. It combines the ease of slow cooking with the delightful crunch you expect from a perfectly roasted turkey skin. Tender, juicy meat infused with herbs and spices simmers gently while the final broil step adds that golden, crispy finish that will wow your family and guests alike. This recipe is the perfect way to transform a humble turkey breast into a feast worth savoring any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with simple, well-chosen ingredients. In this recipe, each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, tenderness, and that beautiful golden skin we all crave.
- Turkey breast (5-7 lb): Choose bone-in or boneless depending on your preference; bone-in adds extra flavor and juiciness.
- Olive oil or melted butter (2 tbsp): Used to keep the skin moist and help achieve a crispy finish when broiled.
- Salt (1 tsp): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the turkey.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Brings aromatic warmth to the turkey.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Complements the garlic and spices with subtle sweetness.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds color and a gentle smoky flavor for complexity.
- Dried thyme or rosemary (1 tsp): Your choice of herb adds earthiness that pairs beautifully with poultry.
- Chicken or turkey broth (1 cup): Keeps the turkey moist during slow cooking and infuses savory notes.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey
Start by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels; this is important to ensure the skin crisps up nicely later. Rub the olive oil or melted butter all over the turkey, including underneath the skin if you can lift it gently. This step locks in moisture and helps the seasonings stick.
Step 2: Season Generously
Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and your choice of dried thyme or rosemary in a bowl. Take this fragrant seasoning blend and coat the turkey breast evenly, covering every nook and cranny for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker
Pour a cup of chicken or turkey broth into the base of your slow cooker. Place the seasoned turkey breast inside with the breast-side facing up. The broth will add moisture and a rich background flavor to the meat as it cooks low and slow.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. Slow, gentle heat allows the turkey to become incredibly tender and juicy while the seasonings meld with the meat beautifully. You’ll want to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 5: Achieve Crispy Skin
This is the moment that makes this slow cooker recipe truly special. Carefully transfer the turkey breast to a baking sheet. Broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin turns a gorgeous golden brown and crisps up enticingly. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn—just the right amount of heat gives you that perfect crunch.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once the skin is beautifully crisped, let the turkey rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period redistributes the juices, making every slice juicy and tender. Then carve and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can brighten the dish visually and add a fresh, herbal contrast. A few wedges of lemon on the side can be squeezed over just before eating, lifting the rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This flavorful turkey breast pairs wonderfully with a range of classic sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad bring balance and variety. For a Thanksgiving or holiday feast, consider traditional stuffing or cranberry sauce to complement the savory herbs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family dinner, carve the turkey directly at the table to showcase the crispy skin and juicy meat. For a special occasion, arrange slices on a platter with garnishes and sides artfully placed around it. You can even serve thick turkey slices on toasted bread with mustard aioli for a delicious gourmet sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cooked turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure to keep the turkey skin separate or re-crisp it before serving again to maintain texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, slice the turkey first, then freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Properly wrapped turkey can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat turkey slices gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) covered with foil to keep them moist. To revive the crispy skin, briefly broil or place under a hot grill for a few minutes just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Both bone-in and boneless turkey breasts work well. Bone-in adds extra flavor and moisture, but boneless is easier to carve and faster to cook.
What if I don’t have dried herbs like thyme or rosemary?
No worries! You can substitute with fresh herbs, just double the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Or try other dried herbs you love, like sage or oregano.
How do I ensure the skin gets crispy after slow cooking?
The key is the broiling step at the end. Make sure to pat the skin dry before oiling and rubbing spices on it. Then, a few minutes under a hot broiler crisps and browns it perfectly.
Can I cook the turkey breast on HIGH in the slow cooker?
While you can, cooking on LOW is recommended for tender, juicy meat. High heat may cook the turkey faster but can risk drying it out.
Is it okay to cook the turkey breast with the lid slightly ajar for crisper skin?
In a slow cooker, it’s best to keep the lid fully closed during cooking to maintain moisture. The crispy skin is best achieved after cooking when you broil the turkey in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe has become a beloved favorite of mine, combining the ease of slow cooking with that show-stopping crispy finish. It’s a perfect centerpiece that feels special but comes together with very little fuss. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a hearty, comforting meal, this recipe promises juicy, flavorful turkey with a crispy skin that’s hard to beat. Give it a try and make it a new family classic!
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Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Crispy Skin Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This slow cooker turkey breast recipe offers a comforting and flavorful feast perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals. The turkey is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, slow-cooked to tender perfection, and finished under the broiler for a crispy, golden skin.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 1 (5-7 lb) bone-in or boneless turkey breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Liquid
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is crucial to help the skin crisp up later. Rub the olive oil or melted butter all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin where you can for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Season the Turkey: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and your choice between dried thyme or rosemary. Evenly rub this seasoning blend all over the turkey breast to ensure a well-seasoned bird.
- Add Broth and Place in Slow Cooker: Pour the chicken or turkey broth into the base of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned turkey breast inside the slow cooker breast-side up to allow even cooking.
- Slow Cook the Turkey: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C), ensuring the turkey is fully cooked and juicy.
- Broil for Crispy Skin: To achieve a golden, crispy skin, transfer the cooked turkey breast onto a baking sheet and place it under the broiler in your oven. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully until the skin is browned and crisped to your liking.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the turkey breast to rest for 10 to 15 minutes after broiling. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moist slices. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Broiling time may vary depending on your oven; watch carefully to avoid burning the skin.
- You can substitute dried thyme with rosemary based on your flavor preference.
- Use bone-in or boneless turkey breast based on availability or desired texture.
- Resting the turkey after cooking is essential to maintain moisture and tenderness.
