This Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a wonderfully tender and flavorful main dish that’s easy to prepare. The turkey breast slowly cooks with fresh garlic and a mix of herbs, soaking up all the delicious tastes while staying juicy and tender. It’s the kind of meal that smells amazing while it’s cooking and melts in your mouth when you eat it.
I love making this turkey breast when I want something special but without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, and the herbs and garlic give it an extra touch of homey goodness. I usually use fresh rosemary, thyme, and a bit of parsley, but you can mix in whatever herbs you like best or have on hand.
My favorite way to serve this is with simple roasted veggies or a fresh salad on the side, so the turkey remains the star of the meal. It’s perfect for a relaxed family dinner or even for a small gathering. Plus, leftovers make great sandwiches the next day! I always look forward to making this recipe whenever I want that cozy, comforting feel with very little fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: Using boneless, skinless turkey breast ensures quick, even cooking in the slow cooker. If you prefer dark meat, turkey thighs also work well and stay juicy.
Garlic & Fresh Herbs: Fresh garlic and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley add bright flavors. If fresh herbs aren’t available, use 1 tsp dried herbs each but reduce slightly to avoid overpowering the meat.
Chicken Broth: The broth keeps the turkey moist during cooking. If you don’t have chicken broth, water or vegetable broth are good substitutes.
Olive Oil & Butter: Olive oil helps the herb rub stick to the turkey. Butter at the end adds extra richness and a nice golden color when searing, but it’s optional.
How Do You Keep Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Moist and Flavorful?
Slow cooking turkey breast risks drying it out, so here’s how to maintain great moisture and flavor:
- Use chicken broth under the turkey to create steam and keep the meat juicy.
- Rub the turkey thoroughly with oil and herb mix; this flavor layer helps lock in moisture.
- Cook on low heat, not high; slow gentle cooking prevents the meat from drying out.
- Rest the turkey for 10 minutes after cooking to let juices redistribute before slicing.
- Optional: For a golden crust, quickly sear the cooked turkey in a pan with melted butter—it adds flavor and texture without drying the meat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – the best tool for hands-off, even cooking that keeps turkey juicy.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the turkey breast cleanly after cooking.
- Cutting board – protects surfaces and gives a steady place to slice your turkey.
- Small bowl – handy for mixing the garlic and herb rub before applying it.
- Skillet (optional) – for searing the cooked turkey to add a golden crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding lemon zest or juice to the herb mixture for a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Swap turkey breast for chicken breast for a similar but slightly milder flavor.
- Add sliced mushrooms or pearl onions to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.
- Use smoked paprika or chili flakes in the rub if you like a bit of smoky heat.
How to Make Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey and Herb Rub:
- 2 to 3 lb boneless skinless turkey breast
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Cooking:
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter, melted (optional for finishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 4 to 5 hours to cook slowly in your cooker. Then add 10 minutes of resting time before slicing and serving. It’s mostly hands-off, so you can get other things done while the turkey cooks perfectly tender.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Herb Garlic Rub:
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. This fresh herb mixture will give the turkey lots of wonderful flavor.
2. Season the Turkey:
Rub the turkey breast all over with olive oil. Next, rub the garlic-herb mix evenly onto the turkey, pressing it gently so it sticks well to the meat.
3. Place in Slow Cooker and Add Broth:
Put the turkey breast fat side up into your slow cooker. Carefully pour the chicken broth around the turkey, taking care not to wash off the herb rub.
4. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check when the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) internally for safe, tender results.
5. Rest and Optional Sear:
Remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to let the juices settle. If you like, you can sear the turkey in a hot skillet with melted butter for 2-3 minutes on the fat side to get a golden-brown finish.
6. Slice and Serve:
Cut the turkey into slices and spoon some of the cooking juices over the meat for extra flavor. Serve with roasted potatoes, green beans, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your tender, flavorful, and easy slow cooker turkey breast!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey Breast in the Slow Cooker?
It’s best to use fully thawed turkey breast for even cooking. Thaw frozen turkey in the fridge overnight before starting the recipe to ensure it cooks safely and thoroughly.
Can I Cook the Turkey Breast on High Instead of Low?
You can, but cooking on low for 4 to 5 hours yields the most tender, juicy turkey. If using high, cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, but check frequently to avoid drying out the meat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Use Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon each of dried rosemary, thyme, and parsley since dried herbs are more concentrated. Adjust to taste and mix them evenly into the garlic rub.
