If you’re looking for a foolproof way to serve a tender, flavorful turkey breast without the usual hassle, you’re going to love this Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out — the meat stays incredibly juicy and the slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day. It’s the perfect weeknight meal or a simple weekend dinner when you want something comforting but fuss-free.
What makes this Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe stand out is how the vegetables add an aromatic base, keeping the turkey elevated and infusing it with subtle flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to get a bit of veggie goodness right alongside your protein. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how effortlessly the turkey came out perfectly cooked and ready to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, freeing you up for other things.
- Consistently Juicy Turkey: The broth and veggies keep the meat moist and flavorful every time.
- Simple Ingredients: You’ll likely have everything you need right in your pantry and fridge.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a holiday meal, this recipe shines.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe plays a key role in layering flavor and keeping things tender and aromatic. The combination is simple enough to prep quickly but special enough to impress. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters.
- Butter: Using softened butter mixed with spices creates a flavorful rub that keeps the turkey moist and gives the skin a slight richness.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps with moisture retention in the turkey breast.
- Onion powder: Gives a delicate sweetness and an umami boost to the seasoning blend.
- Garlic powder: Adds depth and that familiar savory note that pairs wonderfully with turkey.
- Black pepper: For a subtle bite that cuts through the richness.
- Paprika: A touch of warmth and color that makes the turkey look as good as it tastes.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the slow cooker moist and infuses the veggies and turkey from underneath.
- Celery stalks: These add moisture and a gentle earthiness that pairs perfectly with poultry.
- Carrots: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory turkey and helps create a well-rounded flavor.
- Yellow onion: Sliced into wedges to infuse the broth with a sharp but sweet onion flavor.
- Boneless turkey breast with skin: Skin-on is key for that beautiful crispy finish and juiciness inside.
Variations
I love experimenting with this Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe depending on the season or what’s on hand. Don’t hesitate to make it your own — it’s flexible and forgiving!
- Herb infusion: Sometimes I swap out paprika for fresh rosemary and thyme mixed into the butter rub — it gives a lovely aromatic twist.
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add potatoes, parsnips, or even mushrooms for extra heartiness and flavor depth.
- Spice level: For a little kick, I like sprinkling a pinch of cayenne or smoked chili powder into the butter mix — just enough heat to wake up your taste buds.
- Low sodium option: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt if you’re watching sodium intake — the veggies and spices still pack plenty of flavor.
How to Make Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Prep that flavorful butter rub
Start by mixing your softened butter with kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika in a small bowl. I find softened butter easier to spread evenly and it clings beautifully to the turkey skin, ensuring every bite is seasoned. Use your fingers or a spatula to rub this mixture all over the turkey breast, covering every nook and cranny, which locks in so much flavor during the slow cook.
Step 2: Layer the slow cooker with veggies and broth
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker, then arrange the halved celery stalks, quartered carrots, and sliced onion wedges evenly over the liquid. These veggies act like a delicious flavor bed and create steam that keeps the turkey juicy. Plus, they’re wonderful to serve alongside the meat or as a side dish after cooking.
Step 3: Place turkey breast skin-side up and start cooking
Carefully lay your butter-rubbed turkey breast on top of the vegetable layer, skin side up. This position helps the skin brown beautifully if you decide to finish it under the broiler later. Put the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 5 to 6 hours. It’s important to check that your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe, juicy results. Resist the temptation to lift the lid frequently because that lets heat escape!
Step 4: Optional broil for crispy skin
If you love crispy skin like I do, once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker, place it on a foil-lined baking sheet, and broil it for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin turns golden and crisp. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn — that quick broil adds a nice texture contrast to the tender meat.
Step 5: Rest and slice
Allow your turkey breast to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This little pause lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat so every slice stays juicy and flavorful. Trust me, skipping this step can lead to drier meat and disappointing results, so it’s worth the wait!
Pro Tips for Making Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is fully softened—not melted—to get an evenly spread seasoning crust.
- Internal Temperature Check: Use a reliable meat thermometer for accuracy; it’s the key to perfectly cooked turkey without guesswork.
- Broiling Timing: Only broil for a couple of minutes to crisp the skin without drying out the meat underneath.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Resting makes all the difference — juice retention means every slice is juicy and tender.
How to Serve Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves right before serving for a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma. A squeeze of lemon juice over the turkey just before plating can brighten all those rich flavors and make each bite pop. It’s a little touch that feels elegant and fresh.
Side Dishes
My go-to sides with this Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe are classic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up those flavorful juices. A crisp green salad or roasted green beans add a fresh contrast, balancing the plate. Sometimes I even serve it with warm crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the broth and delish veggie goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I’ve arranged the sliced turkey over a bed of the slow-cooked vegetables on a large serving platter. Surrounding it with roasted baby potatoes and garnishing with fresh herbs really makes the dish feel festive and inviting. You can even drizzle some of the slow cooker juices as an impromptu gravy — your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store any leftover turkey and vegetables in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to keep the turkey slices and veggies separate if I’m planning to reheat portions at different times. It keeps everything tasting fresh and makes warming up a breeze.
Freezing
Freezing works great too! I slice the turkey before freezing and pack it with some veggies and a little broth in freezer-safe bags or containers. It defrosts nicely overnight in the fridge, and I’ve found it reheats evenly without drying out.
Reheating
The best way I’ve found to reheat the turkey breast and vegetables is gently in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel or in a low oven (around 300°F) wrapped in foil to keep moisture locked in. Adding a splash of broth before reheating helps maintain that juicy texture you love.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
It’s best to use a fully thawed turkey breast before cooking in the crockpot. Cooking it frozen can result in uneven cooking and may extend the cooking time. Plan to thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
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How do I know when the turkey breast is done?
The most reliable method is to use an instant-read meat thermometer: the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures the turkey is safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
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Can I cook the turkey breast on high instead of low?
You can cook on high, but I recommend low because it yields more tender, evenly cooked meat. Cooking on high might speed things up but risks drying out the turkey if you’re not careful.
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What can I do with the leftover cooking liquid?
The broth and veggie juices are packed with flavor! You can strain them and use as a simple gravy base or add to soups and stews. Freeze leftovers in ice cube trays for easy flavor boosts later.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for stress-free dinners. It’s comforting, reliable, and always a hit with family and friends. I truly believe that once you try it, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to pull off a juicy, flavorful turkey breast without the usual dry results. Just set it and forget it — your slow cooker will do the magic while you relax.
PrintJuicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe ensures a juicy and flavorful turkey every time with minimal effort. The turkey breast is seasoned with a buttery spice mix and slow-cooked alongside aromatic vegetables, resulting in tender meat infused with delicious flavors. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal or special occasion without the hassle of traditional roasting.
Ingredients
Turkey and Seasoning
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 boneless turkey breast with skin (about 2 to 2 ½ pounds)
Vegetables and Broth
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 stalks celery (halved)
- 3 carrots (quartered)
- 1 large yellow onion (sliced into ½” wedges)
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Season the turkey: Evenly spread the butter and spice mixture over the entire surface of the turkey breast, ensuring good coverage for maximum flavor.
- Setup the slow cooker: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker and add the halved celery, quartered carrots, and sliced onion to create a flavorful bed for the turkey.
- Place the turkey: Position the seasoned turkey breast skin side up on top of the vegetables inside the slow cooker.
- Cook the turkey: Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on the low setting for 5 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the meat is safely cooked and tender.
- Optional broiling: If you prefer a crispy and browned skin, transfer the turkey breast to a foil-lined baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest the turkey: Allow the cooked turkey breast to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to retain the juices and serve tender slices.
Notes
- Say goodbye to dry turkey and hello to this juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe! It turns out perfect every single time.
- For a crispy skin finish, use the broil step after slow cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- This recipe is great for meal prepping as the turkey stays moist for several days when refrigerated.
- You can substitute vegetables with your favorites or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 6 oz cooked turkey with some vegetables)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg