Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast – Simple & Sensational

Name: Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast – Simple & Sensational
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488176H18M28S
Total time: 6 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 turkey breast (2 kg / 4 lb), skin-on, bone-in or boneless; 1 head garlic, halved; 1 onion, unpeeled and halved; 5 sprigs thyme or 2 tsp dried thyme; 1½ tsp garlic powder; 1½ tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 2 tsp salt; 5 grinds black pepper; 1½ – 2 tbsp olive oil; Strained juices from slow cooker; Chicken stock or water (to make 2 cups liquid); 4 tbsp butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste

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Some recipes feel like a deep breath in the middle of a chaotic day. That’s exactly what this juicy slow cooker turkey breast recipe is. This juicy slow cooker turkey breast is hands-off, low-stress, and still ends up full of flavor and tenderness. You don’t need oven space, fancy gear, or even much effort. Just a few ingredients, a slow cooker, and a little trust in the process.

Juicy slow cooker turkey breast sliced and served with gravy, lemon, and herbs

Why I Love This Recipe

It’s hands-off, juicy, and deeply flavorful. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting while the garlic and thyme infuse every bite. The gravy is rich and homemade, and the skin still crisps up beautifully under the broiler. No stress, no dryness — just reliable, comforting turkey every single time.

What You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

1 turkey breast (about 2 kg or 4 lb), skin on, bone-in or boneless
1 head of garlic, halved
1 onion, unpeeled and halved
5 sprigs fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme

For the Rub

1½ teaspoons garlic powder
1½ teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons salt
5 grinds black pepper
1½ to 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Gravy

Strained juices from the slow cooker
Chicken stock or water (to make up 2 cups liquid total)
4 tablespoons butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Tools

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Small saucepan
Strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Turkey

Pat your turkey breast dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick and the skin crisp up later.
In a bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil into a thick paste.
Rub it all over the top and sides of the turkey.

Prepare the Base

Place the halved garlic, onion, and thyme in the bottom of the slow cooker.
These create an aromatic rack that lifts the turkey and adds flavor as it cooks.

Slow Cook

Set the turkey breast on top of the garlic and onion.
Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, or until the thickest part reaches 165°F (75°C).
Check around hour 5 to avoid overcooking.

Let It Rest

Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
Let it rest for 20 minutes. This locks in moisture and makes carving easier.

Crisp the Skin

Preheat your broiler.
Place the turkey on a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.

Make the Gravy

Strain the cooking juices into a bowl and press on the garlic and onion to release their flavor.
Add broth or water to make 2 cups total.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a smooth paste.
Slowly pour in the liquid while whisking. Simmer until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper.

Juicy slow cooker turkey breast slices with gravy poured on top

Tips for Best Results

Use skin-on turkey for moisture and browning
Don’t cook on HIGH — always use the LOW setting
Check the internal temp instead of relying on time
Elevate the turkey on aromatics to avoid boiling in liquid
Crisping the skin at the end adds flavor and texture
If using a brined turkey, reduce or skip the salt in the rub
This juicy slow cooker turkey breast recipe is forgiving — a little extra cook time won’t ruin it.
To make ahead, cook and refrigerate the turkey, then broil before serving

Cook Times by Weight

1 kg / 2 lb: 4 to 5 hours
2–3 kg / 4–6 lb: 5 to 6 hours
4 kg / 8 lb: 6 to 7 hours
5 kg / 10 lb: 8 to 9 hours

No matter the size, always check the internal temperature of your juicy slow cooker turkey breast before serving.

What to Serve With It

If you’re making this juicy slow cooker turkey breast for a holiday meal, try serving it with:

Mashed potatoes
Buttery herb stuffing side dish
Green beans or roasted carrots
Cranberry sauce
Creamy baked pumpkin risotto for holiday dinners

For a simpler weeknight dinner, go with:

Roasted sweet potatoes
Steamed broccoli or garlic sautéed spinach
Slow cooker chicken taco soup for cozy weeknights for leftovers

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or oven with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Gravy thickens in the fridge — thin with stock or water before reheating.

Leftover Ideas

White turkey enchilada soup
Garlic bread turkey pot pie
Turkey muffulettas
Turkey sandwiches with cranberry mayo

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook turkey breast in the slow cooker?

Yes, and it’s a great method. It keeps the meat juicy without any babysitting.

How to ensure turkey breast is moist?

Use the LOW setting, don’t overcook, and let the turkey rest before slicing.

What is the secret to a moist turkey?

Cook it low and slow, keep the skin on, and check the internal temp instead of guessing.

How long does turkey take to cook in the slow cooker?

For a 2 kg / 4 lb breast, it takes 5 to 6 hours on LOW. Larger ones take longer.

Juicy Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe Card

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Final Thoughts

This juicy slow cooker turkey breast takes the stress out of dinner. Whether it’s for a holiday or a regular Sunday, this juicy slow cooker turkey breast recipe brings all the comfort and flavor you want in a roast. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinner, or meal prep for the week, it always hits the spot.
Give it a try and let me know how it turned out over on Pinterest or Facebook. I’d love to hear what you served it with.