Tender Turkey Breast Recipe for Perfect Results

Looking to impress your guests with a holiday meal that’s stress-free and delicious? Look no further than this recipe for Foolproof Tender Turkey Breast. Say goodbye to dry, bland turkey breast and hello to juicy, flavorful meat that practically melts in your mouth. This slow cooker method takes all the guesswork out of cooking turkey, giving you amazing results with minimal effort.

I stumbled upon this recipe after years of uninspiring turkey dinners, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The secret lies in the slow cooker’s gentle heat, which works its magic on the turkey breast, turning it into the most tender and succulent dish you’ve ever tasted. The simple blend of spices adds just the right amount of flavor, and a quick finish under the broiler gives you that perfect golden skin everyone loves. Plus, the cooking juices make a mouthwatering gravy that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

No need to stress about holiday cooking anymore – this foolproof recipe has got you covered. Whether you’re hosting a small Thanksgiving dinner or just craving some turkey any time of the year, this method guarantees fantastic results every time. So kick back, relax, and let your slow cooker do all the work while you bask in the compliments on your perfectly tender turkey breast.

Quick Benefits

• Juicy, tasty meat without the hard work
• Easy slow cooker method for tender turkey breast
• Rich and flavorful gravy made from cooking juices
• Reliable cooking times for different turkey breast sizes

Why You’ll Love This Tender Turkey Breast Recipe for Perfect Results Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: This recipe allows you to achieve juicy, tender turkey with minimal effort, perfect for busy days or holiday dinners where you have other dishes to prepare.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and slow cooking process results in flavorful meat that is a hit with everyone, even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Options: You can customize the herb mix to create different flavor profiles, like maple and rosemary for sweetness, or chili powder and cumin for a Southwest twist, making it adaptable to various tastes.
• Foolproof Method: The slow cooker’s low, steady heat ensures the turkey stays moist and tender, eliminating the risk of overcooking, making it a reliable dish to serve to guests.
• Saves Time and Space: By using the slow cooker, you free up oven space and can focus on preparing other side dishes or desserts, making it ideal for holiday meals where timing and space can be a challenge.
• Leftovers Transformation: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover meats like roast chicken or ham, allowing you to create a new and delicious meal with minimal effort.
• Accommodates Dietary Needs: You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a flavorful meal without any restrictions.

Ingredients for Tender Turkey Breast Recipe for Perfect Results

Essentials

• 1 bulb of garlic, split in half across the middle
• 1 onion (yellow, brown, or white), halved with peel left on
• 2 kilograms / 4 pounds turkey breast, bone in or out, skin on (thaw first if frozen)
• 5 sprigs of fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme

Seasoning Mix

• 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Five twists of black pepper grinder
• 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt

Sauce

• 1/4 cup / 35 grams plain flour
• 4 tablespoons / 50 grams butter
• Salt and pepper for seasoning
• Extra chicken stock or water for adjusting sauce consistency

Pro Tips for Tender Turkey Breast Recipe for Perfect Results

Pro Tip 1: Fresh spices make a big difference in flavor, so ensure your dried herbs are new and potent for the best-tasting turkey. Consider replenishing your dried herbs twice a year to ensure optimal flavor for holiday cooking.

Pro Tip 2: For the most tender turkey, resist the urge to rush the cooking process. Always use the LOW setting on your slow cooker to allow the meat to cook gently and retain its natural juices. Cooking it for longer won’t harm the turkey, unlike oven roasting where timing is crucial.

Pro Tip 3: Experiment with different flavor variations by adding ingredients like maple syrup for sweetness, fresh rosemary and orange peel for a holiday twist, or chili powder and cumin for a southwest flavor. These simple changes can offer a variety of tastes while still maintaining the recipe’s ease of preparation.

How to Make Tender Turkey Breast Recipe for Perfect Results

Step 1: Mix the rub

Mix all the rub ingredients in a bowl until they form a slightly wet paste.

Step 2: Coat the turkey

Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, then coat it with the rub, concentrating on the top and sides.

Step 3: Set up the cooker

Arrange garlic, onion, and thyme in the bottom of the slow cooker with cut sides facing down. Position turkey breast on top to elevate it above the base.

Step 4: Cook it slow

Cook on LOW for 6 hours, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165F/75C by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part after about 5 hours.

Step 5: Let it rest

Remove the cooked turkey from the cooker and let it rest for about 20 minutes before crisping the skin.

Step 6: Make the skin crispy

Preheat the grill/broiler on high with an oven shelf positioned about 1 foot / 30 cm below the heat. Place the turkey in a heat-safe dish and broil for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, watching closely as it browns quickly.

Step 7: Start the gravy – part one

Transfer the drippings from the cooker to a jug and squeeze the garlic and onion to extract all the juices. If there is less than 2 cups, add additional stock or water to reach the desired amount.

Step 8: Finish the gravy – part two

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour until a paste forms. Gradually whisk in cooking liquid, stirring constantly. Simmer until thickened, then remove from heat while still slightly runny.

Step 9: Serve it up

Adjust seasoning of gravy as needed. Serve hot turkey with gravy on the side.

Storage Tips

Once you have made this delicious slow cooker turkey breast and enjoyed it, storing the leftovers properly is key to maintaining their quality and taste. Allow any leftover turkey breast to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the turkey breast in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it is tightly covered to prevent it from drying out. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to help retain the moisture and tenderness of the turkey.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked turkey breast for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the turkey securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Thaw the frozen turkey breast overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it gently in the oven or microwave. Freezing in smaller portions can make it easier to defrost and use only what you need, helping to preserve the quality of the turkey. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the tender, flavorful slow cooker turkey breast even after the initial serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Foolproof Tender Turkey Breast recipe, you can make various ingredient substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. If you don’t have fresh thyme on hand, you can easily swap it with dried thyme in equal amounts. Similarly, if you prefer a different herb flavor, you can experiment with herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to add a unique touch to your turkey breast.

If you are looking to make this turkey breast recipe dairy-free, you can replace butter with a plant-based alternative like margarine or olive oil. This substitution will still contribute to a rich flavor and help create a golden skin on the turkey. Additionally, if you are aiming for a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to thicken the gravy. Remember to adjust seasoning as needed to ensure the dish retains its delicious taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tender slow cooker turkey breast with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and classic green bean casserole for a comforting holiday meal. Drizzle the rich gravy made from the cooking juices over the turkey and sides for an extra burst of flavor. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.

To switch things up, try using the leftover turkey to make a delicious fried rice dish. Combine the diced turkey with leftover roast chicken, ham, or grilled steak for a flavorful mix. Add in some colorful vegetables and scrambled eggs for a complete meal. The combination of tender turkey and savory fried rice will be a hit with your family, offering a creative way to enjoy holiday leftovers in a new and exciting dish.

FAQs for Tender Turkey Breast Recipe for Perfect Results

Question?

What size turkey breast works best for this slow cooker recipe?

Answer:

This recipe is versatile and can work with any size turkey breast. For a 2-3 pound breast, cook for 4-5 hours on LOW. A 4-5 pound breast needs 5-6 hours on LOW, and for larger 6-7 pound breasts, cook 6-7 hours on LOW. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on your slow cooker and the shape of your turkey breast.

Question?

Can I modify the herb mix for different flavors?

Answer:

Absolutely! You can customize the herb mix to suit different occasions or personal preferences. For a holiday touch, try adding maple syrup, rosemary, or orange peel. For a southwest flavor, incorporate chili powder, cumin, and lime peel. An Italian twist can be achieved with dried basil, oregano, and sun-dried tomato paste in the butter mix.

Question?

How does cooking this turkey breast in a slow cooker compare to oven roasting?

Answer:

Cooking the turkey breast in a slow cooker offers a more relaxed and reliable approach compared to oven roasting. The gentle, low heat of the slow cooker helps retain moisture and flavor, making it less likely to dry out. Unlike oven roasting, where timing is crucial, the slow cooker method allows for more flexibility in cooking time without compromising the quality of the turkey.

Question?

Can I use different meats or leftovers in this slow cooker turkey breast recipe?

Answer:

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with different meats or leftovers. You can experiment with leftover roast chicken, holiday ham, or grilled steak by cutting them into pieces and adding them to the slow cooker. Just ensure all meats are cut into similar sizes for even cooking and flavor incorporation.

Conclusion

In closing, if you’re looking for a stress-free and delicious way to prepare your turkey, look no further than this Foolproof Tender Turkey Breast recipe. With minimal effort, you can achieve tender, flavorful meat that will impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds. The slow cooker method ensures juicy results every time, making it a perfect option for holiday dinners or any time you’re craving a taste of Thanksgiving.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this Foolproof Tender Turkey Breast recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Embrace the ease of slow cooking and savor the delightful flavors that come together effortlessly. With this recipe, you can say goodbye to dry, bland turkey and hello to a new era of tender, flavorful poultry. Happy cooking!