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Tender Crock Pot Turkey Breast Roast Easy Recipe for Thanksgiving Dinner

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A simple and hands-off slow cooker turkey breast roast recipe that delivers tender, juicy, and flavorful turkey perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds bone-in or boneless turkey breast
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon kosher salt recommended)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons softened butter

Instructions

  1. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels and trim any large pieces of fat, keeping the skin on.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to make herb butter.
  3. Loosen the skin from the turkey meat carefully and spread half the herb butter under the skin and the rest over the outside of the turkey breast.
  4. Layer the bottom of the crock pot with sliced onion to create a flavor bed.
  5. Place the turkey breast skin side up on top of the onions in the crock pot.
  6. Pour chicken broth and lemon juice around the turkey, avoiding washing off the rub.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, about 20 minutes per pound, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove the turkey breast and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to redistribute juices.
  9. Slice against the grain into thick slices and serve.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches 165°F for safety. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat. For a tighter seal, cover the crock pot lid with foil. Rest the turkey before slicing to keep it moist. Optional additions include smoked paprika, sage, or white wine for extra flavor. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, crock pot turkey, slow cooker turkey, Thanksgiving turkey, easy turkey recipe, tender turkey, holiday turkey