If you are craving a foolproof way to achieve tender, juicy poultry with a burst of savory flavor and the added delight of crispy skin, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Seasoned Rub and Crispy Skin Recipe is a total game-changer. Combining the ease of slow cooking with a perfectly balanced blend of herbs and spices, this recipe delivers a turkey breast that’s richly seasoned, incredibly moist, and finished with a beautiful, golden-brown crust that will make dinner feel like a special occasion every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to bring this dish to life. Each component plays a crucial role: from enriching the flavor profile with herbs and spices to locking in moisture for that tender bite you crave.
- Bone-in turkey breast (6 to 7 lbs): The star of the dish, it provides hearty portions and stays juicy during slow cooking.
- Olive oil (1 Tbsp): Helps create a base layer for spices to cling onto and promotes crisping of the skin later.
- Garlic powder (2 tsp): Adds a warm, fragrant note that complements poultry beautifully.
- Seasoned salt (2 tsp): Enhances overall flavor with a balanced salty and savory kick.
- Paprika (2 tsp): Brings vibrant color and a subtle smoky depth.
- Italian seasoning (2 tsp): Offers a medley of herbs that brightens and layers flavor complexity.
- Black pepper (2 tsp): Lends a gentle heat and aromatic zing.
- Onion powder (2 tsp): Imparts a mellow sweetness with a bit of earthiness.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Seasoned Rub and Crispy Skin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey
Start by patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential because it allows the olive oil and seasonings to adhere better, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Then, brush the turkey with olive oil all over – this not only helps lift the spices but also primes the skin for that coveted crispness later on.
Step 2: Season the Turkey
Mix together the garlic powder, seasoned salt, paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and onion powder in a small bowl. Generously rub this seasoning blend all over the turkey breast, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. Don’t rush this part—massaging the spices deep into the skin and meat will infuse your turkey with bold, even flavor as it cooks low and slow.
Step 3: Cook the Turkey
Place the seasoned turkey breast into your slow cooker with the breast side facing up. Pop the lid on and set the heat to LOW. Let the magic happen over the next 5 to 6 hours. This gentle cooking process locks in moisture and tenderizes the meat until it reaches an internal temperature of 170ºF. Using an instant-read thermometer here is key to achieve perfectly cooked turkey without drying it out.
Step 4: Crisp the Skin
Once your slow cooker has done its job, carefully transfer the turkey to a baking pan. Pop it under the broiler for a few minutes until the skin crisps up gloriously. Keep a close eye during this step to avoid burning. That satisfying crunch is what transforms this dish from comforting to show-stopping.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let your turkey breast rest for a few minutes after broiling to allow the juices to redistribute. Carve into thick, tender slices and prepare for compliments. This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Seasoned Rub and Crispy Skin Recipe is perfect for any gathering, from weeknight dinners to festive feasts.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Seasoned Rub and Crispy Skin Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh, simple garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely sliced green onions can brighten up each plate. A few lemon wedges on the side also add a pop of color and a fresh citrus twist that complements the seasoned rub perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair this turkey with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a vibrant cranberry sauce. Each side brings its own texture and flavor contrast, creating a well-rounded and inviting meal your whole family will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, shred some of the turkey meat and toss it into warm tortillas with a drizzle of honey mustard or a dollop of cranberry chutney for quick, irresistibly tasty wraps. Alternatively, layering slices atop a fresh salad with walnuts and dried cranberries turns leftovers into a delightfully hearty lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your turkey, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Sliced turkey remains tender and flavorful for up to 4 days, perfect for creating quick meals throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to save the turkey for even longer, freeze portions in meal-sized bags or containers. Properly wrapped, frozen turkey breast stays delicious for up to 3 months. Just thaw it safely in the fridge overnight when ready to use.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the turkey slices in a covered dish in the oven at 325ºF or microwave wrapped with a small splash of broth to retain moisture. Avoid high heat to keep the turkey juicy and tender without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead?
Absolutely! While bone-in turkey breast offers more flavor and moisture, a boneless version can work. Just reduce the cooking time slightly and keep a close watch on the internal temperature to prevent overcooking.
Do I need to brine the turkey before cooking?
Brining isn’t necessary for this recipe because the low-and-slow cooking method locks in the turkey’s natural juices, and the seasoned rub adds plenty of flavor. However, if you like extra juicy meat, a simple brine before seasoning can enhance tenderness.
What if I don’t have a broiler? How do I crisp the skin?
If your oven lacks a broiler, you can transfer the turkey to a hot skillet with a bit of oil or use a kitchen torch to carefully crisp the skin. Alternatively, searing the skin in a pan before slow cooking can give a head start on texture.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?
The best way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. When it reaches 170ºF, your turkey is perfectly cooked—juicy and safe to eat.
Can I prepare this recipe for a smaller turkey breast?
Yes! Simply adjust the cooking time to about 4 to 5 hours on LOW for a smaller size, but always check the internal temperature to ensure safety and juiciness.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Seasoned Rub and Crispy Skin Recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your comfort food arsenal. It combines hands-off cooking convenience with deeply satisfying flavor and texture that feels special every time. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a holiday celebration, this recipe will not disappoint—give it a try and prepare to savor the compliments!
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Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Seasoned Rub and Crispy Skin Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful turkey breast that’s effortlessly tender and perfect for family dinners. Seasoned with a blend of garlic, paprika, Italian herbs, and spices, the turkey cooks low and slow in a crockpot to lock in moisture and enhance taste. Finish with a quick broil for irresistibly crispy skin—a perfect combination of convenience and deliciousness.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 1 (6 to 7-lb) bone-in turkey breast, thawed
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
Seasoning Mix
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp seasoned salt
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp pepper
- 2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey: Begin by ensuring your bone-in turkey breast is fully thawed and ready to cook.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Coat the entire turkey breast with olive oil using a brush to help the seasonings adhere and encourage browning.
- Make the Seasoning Blend: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together garlic powder, seasoned salt, paprika, Italian seasoning, pepper, and onion powder for a robust flavor profile.
- Season the Turkey: Rub the seasoning mixture generously over the entire surface of the turkey breast, ensuring even coverage for maximum taste.
- Slow Cook the Turkey: Place the seasoned turkey breast breast-side up in a 6-quart slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW heat for 5 to 6 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 170ºF.
- Crisp the Skin (Optional): Transfer the cooked turkey to a baking pan and place under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp and brown the skin. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the turkey to rest for a few minutes after broiling to redistribute juices, then carve and serve your tender, flavorful turkey breast.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 170ºF.
- Broiling the skin is optional but recommended for a crispy, golden finish.
- Adjust seasonings to taste if you prefer more or less spice.
- Leftover turkey can be used in sandwiches, salads, or soups.
- Make sure the slow cooker is large enough to accommodate a 6 to 7 lb turkey breast comfortably.
