Name: Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 3 to 8 lbs turkey breast (boneless or bone-in); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp paprika; 2 tsp dried oregano; 2 tsp dried rosemary; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast provides a succulent and effortless way to enjoy a traditional holiday centerpiece any day of the week. Because the turkey cooks slowly in its own juices, the meat remains incredibly tender without the risk of drying out in the oven. Furthermore, the aromatic blend of herbs and spices creates a savory crust that enhances every bite of this protein-packed meal.

Ingredients & What You’ll Need

Gather these pantry-staple herbs and healthy oils to prepare a flavorful, herb-crusted turkey breast that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.

Turkey breast: Serves as the lean, high-protein foundation; you can use bone-in or boneless varieties.
Olive oil: Acts as the base for the spice paste, helping the herbs adhere to the skin.
Paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and a beautiful golden-red color to the exterior.
Dried oregano and rosemary: Provide classic, earthy Mediterranean notes that pair perfectly with poultry.
Salt and black pepper: Form the essential seasoning base to highlight the natural flavor of the turkey.
Dried thyme: Offers a delicate, floral aroma that is a staple in traditional roasted turkey.
Onion and garlic powder: Deliver a concentrated savory depth to the herb crust.

How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

This method involves a simple hand-rubbed seasoning technique followed by a hands-off cooking process in the slow cooker.

1. Prepare the Turkey and Spice Paste

First, place your turkey breast into the bottom of a 5- to 7-quart slow cooker with the skin side facing up. In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil and all the dried spices to form a thick, fragrant paste. You must ensure the spices are well-combined so that the flavor remains consistent across the entire bird.

2. Season the Bird

Gently loosen the turkey skin with your fingers to create space for the seasoning. Spread a portion of the spice mixture directly under the skin to flavor the meat, and rub the remaining paste over the top. Consequently, this technique ensures the herbs penetrate the meat while also seasoning the skin for maximum flavor.

3. Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to your preferred speed. You should cook the turkey on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. You must use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast.

4. Rest and Finish

After the turkey reaches the safe temperature, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist during slicing. Therefore, you can slice the turkey and serve it immediately for a healthy, keto-friendly dinner.

Tips and Notes

Optional Crispy Skin: For those who prefer a crunchy texture, you can broil the cooked turkey for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown. You should watch it carefully to prevent burning.
Sizing: This recipe is versatile and works for any turkey breast weighing between 3 and 8 pounds.
Liquid Note: You do not need to add extra water to the slow cooker, as the turkey will release enough natural juices to stay tender.
Meal Prep: This turkey slices beautifully when cold, making it an excellent option for low-carb sandwich wraps or salad toppings.

Yield: 6-10 servings

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is the ultimate "set it and forget it" meal. It delivers juicy, herb-roasted results with minimal effort, making it perfect for both holiday gatherings and easy weeknight meal prep.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

3 to 8 lbs turkey breast (boneless or bone-in)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp dried rosemary
2 tsp salt
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Pot: Place the turkey breast skin side up in a 5- to 7-quart slow cooker.
Paste: Mix the olive oil and all spices in a small bowl to form a paste.
Rub: Loosen the skin and rub the spice paste both under and over the skin.
Cook: Set to LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until it reaches 165°F.
Rest: Let the turkey sit for 15 minutes before slicing.
Optional: Broil for 5-7 minutes for crispy skin.

Notes

Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in breasts often stay juicier, but boneless breasts are much easier to slice for meal prep.
Gravy: Save the flavorful drippings from the bottom of the slow cooker to make a keto-friendly gravy using a little xanthan gum.