If you are craving a comforting, flavorful, and utterly juicy meal, you will adore this Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe. It transforms a simple turkey breast into a tender and aromatic centerpiece, slowly cooked to perfection with fresh herbs and spices. The crowning glory is the luscious pan sauce that perfectly complements each succulent slice. This recipe melds ease and elegance, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or special occasions without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward magic in your kitchen. Each element in this recipe plays a crucial role: the herbs impart fragrance, the butter adds richness and moisture, and the spices create a warm, savory depth. Together, they build layers of flavor that turn an ordinary turkey breast into something memorable.
- Kosher salt: Essential to draw out and enhance the natural flavors of the turkey
- Paprika: Adds subtle smoky warmth and a beautiful color
- Onion powder: Deepens savory notes with gentle sweetness
- Garlic powder: Boosts aromatic intensity without overpowering
- Black pepper: Introduces a mild kick to balance richness
- Butter (8 tablespoons, divided): Provides moisture and a silky texture, crucial for the pan sauce and inside the skin
- 2-pound boneless, skin-on turkey breast: The star ingredient, tender and perfect for slow cooking
- Fresh thyme (2 sprigs): Infuses the poultry with an earthy herbal note
- 1 head garlic, halved horizontally: Roasts gently in the slow cooker, lending mellow depth
- Yellow onion, quartered: Adds sweetness and moisture beneath the turkey
- White wine (1/2 cup): Enhances the pan drippings with subtle acidity and nuance
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the pan sauce into velvety perfection
How to Make Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Craft the Flavorful Spice Paste
Start by combining kosher salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Melt one tablespoon of butter and stir it into the spices until it forms a thick paste. This paste is your flavor powerhouse that will ensure every bite bursts with deliciousness.
Step 2: Butter, Butter, Butter
Cut four tablespoons of butter into small pieces. Gently pat the turkey breast dry, then carefully push the butter chunks underneath the skin. This secret step keeps the meat incredibly moist and infuses it with buttery richness from within as it cooks.
Step 3: Season the Turkey Breast Thoroughly
Generously cover both sides of the turkey breast with the spice paste, rubbing it deeply into the skin to lock in flavor. This step creates a beautifully seasoned crust that will enhance texture and taste during slow cooking.
Step 4: Layer the Slow Cooker
Place thyme sprigs, halved garlic head, and quartered onion in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in the white wine, which will mingle with vegetable juices to create a delicious cooking liquid. Then set the turkey breast gently on top to start the low and slow magic.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for three to four hours. The turkey will slowly soak in the herbaceous steam and gentle heat, becoming splitting tender. Use a digital thermometer to confirm the internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit for the juiciest and safest result.
Step 6: Prepare for Crispy Skin
Carefully transfer the turkey breast from the slow cooker to an oven-safe baking dish. At this stage, the skin is soft but will be crisped beautifully in the oven, elevating texture and flavor that’s worth the effort.
Step 7: Broil for a Golden Finish
Preheat your oven BROIL setting on high. When ready, place the turkey under the broiler for three to five minutes, watching closely as the skin browns and crisps up into a tantalizing golden crust that’s a perfect contrast to the tender meat beneath.
Step 8: Strain the Drippings
Pour the slow cooker juices through a fine sieve to strain out solids, leaving a rich, flavorful liquid base for your pan sauce. These drippings hold the concentrated essences of your herbs, wine, and turkey.
Step 9: Make the Roux
Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat and melt the remaining butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a smooth roux, which will thicken your sauce without lumps and add a toasty, nutty undertone.
Step 10: Finish the Pan Sauce
Gradually whisk in half the strained turkey drippings, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat, allowing it to thicken gently while stirring. Add the remaining drippings as needed to reach your preferred sauce consistency. This step takes 8 to 10 minutes but yields a decadent sauce worth every second.
Step 11: Slice and Serve
Once the turkey has rested briefly, slice it into generous pieces and ladle your homemade pan sauce over the top. This Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe will instantly turn mealtime into a celebration of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your table and add a fresh bite by garnishing the turkey with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or extra thyme sprigs. A few lemon zest flakes or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and add a pop of freshness.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside classic accompaniments like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or buttered green beans. For a lighter touch, consider a crisp garden salad or a vibrant grain salad that balances the richness and adds texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange slices on a large wooden board with the pan sauce drizzled over and little bowls of cranberry sauce or mustard aioli alongside. This makes your meal feel inviting and interactive. Alternatively, layering slices over a bed of buttery polenta or wild rice transforms dinner into a true feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your turkey, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days, allowing you to savor the flavors again without any loss of juiciness or aroma.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe for longer, slice the turkey, place it with pan sauce in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat slices in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or sauce to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the turkey. Slow reheating helps preserve the tender texture and rich flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed turkey breast for the Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe to ensure even cooking and safe internal temperatures. If using frozen, allow sufficient time to thaw completely in the refrigerator before starting.
What if I don’t have white wine?
You can substitute white wine with low-sodium chicken broth or apple cider vinegar mixed with water. These options still provide acidity and depth but will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Can I add other herbs besides thyme?
Absolutely! Rosemary, sage, or tarragon can be wonderful alternatives or additions, enhancing the herbal notes and creating your own unique twist on this cozy dish.
Is it necessary to broil the turkey at the end?
Broiling is recommended to achieve that irresistible crisp skin, but if you prefer, you can skip it. The turkey will still be tender and flavorful, just without the browned crust.
How do I know when the turkey is done?
The most reliable way is to use a digital meat thermometer; the turkey breast is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe offers a fuss-free way to create a tender, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a special occasion or a comforting weeknight, trying this recipe will reward you with juicy meat and a rich, silky sauce that will quickly become a cherished favorite in your culinary rotation.
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Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Turkey Breast with Pan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe delivers tender, juicy turkey infused with aromatic herbs and a flavorful spice rub. The turkey slow cooks to perfection, then is finished under the broiler for a crispy skin. A rich gravy made from the drippings complements the dish, making it an ideal comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Spice Rub and Turkey
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 pound boneless, skin-on turkey breast
Aromatics and Liquid
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 head of garlic, cut in half horizontally
- 1 yellow onion, cut into quarters
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Paste: Combine kosher salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and mix it with the spices until a paste forms.
- Insert Butter Beneath the Skin: Cut 4 tablespoons of butter into small chunks. Pat the turkey breast dry and carefully push the butter chunks under the skin to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Apply Spice Rub: Rub the spice paste evenly over both sides of the turkey breast, pressing it into the skin for maximum flavor.
- Prepare Slow Cooker Base: Place fresh thyme sprigs, halved garlic head, and quartered onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour white wine over the aromatics, then put the seasoned turkey breast on top.
- Slow Cook the Turkey: Cook on LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring juicy, fully cooked meat.
- Broil to Crisp Skin: Remove the turkey from the slow cooker and transfer to an oven-safe baking dish. Broil on high for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin is browned and crisp.
- Strain Drippings: Pour the slow cooker liquid through a sieve to remove solids, setting aside the clear drippings for gravy preparation.
- Make Gravy Roux: Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons butter and melt it. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Prepare Gravy: Gradually add half of the strained turkey drippings to the roux, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and continue adding the remaining drippings as the gravy thickens, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the turkey breast and serve with the rich, homemade gravy for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For best results, use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches safe internal temperature without overcooking.
- Broiling at the end crisps the skin nicely; keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- White wine adds brightness but can be substituted with chicken broth if preferred.
- Butter under the skin keeps the turkey moist and adds richness.
