Description
This is a nearly foolproof way to get a perfectly moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful turkey breast every single time. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it method that locks in moisture and infuses the meat with a rich, herbaceous butter rub. Whether you’re planning a stress-free Thanksgiving, a special Sunday dinner, or simply want delicious sliced turkey for sandwiches, this is your new go-to recipe.
Ingredients
- lb. Boneless Turkey Breast
- tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
- Large Yellow Onion, sliced
- teaspoons Kosher Salt
- teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- teaspoon Garlic Powder
- teaspoon Dried Oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- teaspoon Dried Thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- teaspoon Paprika
- teaspoon Turmeric (optional)
- Optional: Fresh Herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Grease the bottom of your slow cooker insert with a small amount of softened butter. Arrange the onion slices in an even layer on the bottom.
- Prep the Turkey: Remove the turkey breast from its packaging and discard any twine or inserts. Pat the entire surface of the turkey completely dry with paper towels.
- Create the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the remaining softened butter with the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, and optional turmeric. Mash with a fork to form a thick paste.
- Season the Turkey: Place the turkey on top of the onions in the slow cooker. If your turkey has skin, gently lift it and spread some rub directly on the meat underneath. Spread the rest of the herb butter all over the top and sides of the turkey.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 4 hours.
- Crisp the Skin (Optional): For a crispy skin, carefully transfer the cooked turkey to a rimmed baking sheet, skin-side up. Broil for 5-10 minutes, watching closely, until the skin is golden brown.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the turkey breast rest on a cutting board for at least 20 minutes before carving. This step is mandatory for a juicy result.
Notes
- The Onion Rack: The onions act as a natural roasting rack, elevating the turkey so it steams in the flavorful juices instead of boiling.
- Dry for Success: Patting the turkey completely dry is essential for the herb butter to adhere properly and for achieving crispy skin if you broil it.
- Season Under the Skin: For maximum flavor, gently lift the skin and spread some of the herb butter directly onto the meat underneath.
- Don’t Lift the Lid! Resist the temptation to open the slow cooker while it’s cooking. This releases crucial heat and moisture, which can dry out the meat.
- Watch the Broiler: If you broil the skin, stay by the oven! It can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Slow Cooker, Holiday
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces
- Calories: 240kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg

