Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a simple and tasty twist on classic turkey. The tender turkey breast slowly cooks with garlic, fresh herbs, and a little bit of seasoning, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. The slow cooker does all the work, making the meat juicy and easy to slice.
I love making this recipe when I want a comforting meal without lots of fuss. The garlic and herbs give the turkey just enough flavor to make it special without overwhelming the natural taste. Plus, cooking it slow and low means it stays moist and melts in your mouth, which is something I always appreciate.
My favorite way to enjoy this turkey is in sandwiches with a little mustard and mayo or alongside some roasted veggies for an easy weeknight dinner. This recipe has quickly become a go-to for me because it’s tasty, simple, and perfect for when I want leftovers that taste great reheated the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: Boneless and skinless turkey breast works best here for even cooking. If you can find a turkey tenderloin, that can work too, but adjust cooking time since tenderloins are smaller.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder can be a quick substitute — about 1 teaspoon instead of fresh cloves.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary bring bright and earthy notes. Dried herbs are fine but use about half the amount because they are more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture to keep the turkey juicy. If you don’t have broth, water with a splash of white wine or a bouillon cube dissolved in water works well too.
Lemon Juice (Optional): A splash right before serving adds freshness and a subtle tang. If you don’t have lemon juice, a little vinegar (like apple cider or white wine) can brighten the dish.
How Do You Keep Turkey Breast Moist and Tender in the Slow Cooker?
Turkey breast can dry out if cooked too long or without enough liquid. Here’s how to keep it juicy:
- Rub the herb and garlic paste all over the meat to infuse flavor and help create a tasty crust after searing.
- Add chicken broth to the slow cooker to provide moisture during the long cooking process.
- Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours rather than high heat to gently cook the turkey and avoid drying it out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F. Overcooking leads to dryness.
- After slow cooking, let the turkey rest for 10 minutes to let juices redistribute.
- Quickly sear the turkey in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side to develop a flavorful crust and nice color.
Following these steps helps create tender, juicy turkey breast that’s full of garlic and herb goodness every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – the star here; it gently cooks the turkey low and slow, making it tender and juicy.
- Small bowl – perfect for mixing the garlic and herb paste evenly before rubbing it on the turkey.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check the turkey’s internal temperature to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for giving the turkey a quick sear after slow cooking for a nice crust and extra flavor.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – you’ll need these for resting and slicing the turkey breast before serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding rosemary and sage instead of thyme for a classic roast turkey flavor, great for holiday meals.
- Mix in some lemon zest with the herb paste for a bright, fresh twist that lightens up the dish.
- Add sliced onions and carrots in the slow cooker beneath the turkey to create a natural bed that adds flavor and a tasty side.
- Swap turkey breast for a boneless chicken breast if you want a quicker cook time with similar herbs and flavors.
How to Make Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless turkey breast
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 4 to 6 hours of slow cooking time. After cooking, allow 10 minutes to rest before slicing. The slow cooker does the work, so you can relax while the turkey becomes tender and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Herb and Garlic Paste:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir well to form a fragrant herb and garlic paste.
2. Prepare the Turkey Breast:
Rub the herb mixture evenly all over the turkey breast, making sure every side is covered with the flavorful paste.
3. Slow Cook the Turkey:
Place the turkey breast in your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around it to keep the meat moist while cooking. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Sear:
Carefully remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. For a delicious crust, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the turkey for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the turkey breast and drizzle with the juices from the slow cooker. Optionally, sprinkle a little lemon juice on top for brightness. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or potatoes.
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 Substitute Other Herbs in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Sage, oregano, or marjoram make great alternatives. Use fresh herbs when possible, but dried can work too—just use half the amount since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Store Leftover Turkey Breast?
Store leftovers 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 Skip the Searing Step?
Yes, you can skip searing if you prefer. The turkey will still be delicious and tender, but searing adds a lovely crust and extra flavor you might enjoy.
