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Juicy Slow Cooker Herb Butter Turkey Breast – Easy & Perfect

slow cooker herb butter turkey breast - featured image

This slow cooker herb butter turkey breast is incredibly juicy, flavorful, and practically foolproof. With minimal effort, you get perfectly tender meat every single time, no basting required.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, leaves removed from stems
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (45 pounds)
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
  • ¼ cup white wine (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the herb butter: In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix with a fork until well combined and forms a fragrant paste. Set aside.
  2. Prep the turkey: Remove the turkey breast from packaging and pat completely dry with paper towels. Place on a cutting board.
  3. Apply the herb butter: Using your hands, spread the herb butter all over the turkey breast, including under the skin by gently loosening it with your fingers. Use all the butter.
  4. Prepare the slow cooker: Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker, skin side up.
  5. Cook on low: Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
  6. Check the temperature: After 5 hours, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C). If not done, continue cooking and check every 30 minutes.
  7. Rest the turkey: Carefully remove the turkey from the slow cooker using tongs. Place on a cutting board and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 10-15 minutes.
  8. Carve and serve: After resting, carve the turkey breast against the grain into thick slices. Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the slices. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use fresh herbs and let the butter come to room temperature. Don’t skip the resting step. If you have time, sear the turkey breast in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before adding to the slow cooker for extra flavor. Make extra herb butter to use on rolls or vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, herb butter turkey, juicy turkey breast, easy turkey recipe, Thanksgiving turkey, crockpot turkey