This Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a simple and tasty way to enjoy tender, juicy turkey without a lot of fuss. The turkey breast cooks slowly in the slow cooker, soaking up the flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, making every bite full of warmth and comfort. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a flavorful main dish that practically cooks itself.
I really love how easy this recipe is to put together. I just toss the turkey breast into the slow cooker with some garlic, rosemary, thyme, and a few other herbs, then let it do its thing while I go about my day. The smell that fills the kitchen is amazing, and the turkey always comes out moist and delicious, which makes dinner time feel extra special, even on a busy weeknight.
My favorite way to serve this turkey is sliced over a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside some roasted veggies. It also makes great leftovers for sandwiches or salads the next day. If you want to add a little something extra, a simple pan sauce or gravy made from the cooking juices is a nice touch that ties everything together wonderfully.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: I use boneless turkey breast for easy slicing and even cooking. If you can only find bone-in, it works too but may need extra cooking time.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder works in a pinch but use less to avoid bitterness.
Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Sage): Fresh herbs bring bright, lively flavors. If you only have dried, use about one-third the amount because dried herbs are more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor during cooking. You can substitute water if you want a lighter taste, but broth really enhances the dish.
How Do You Make Sure the Turkey Stays Juicy in the Slow Cooker?
One challenge with slow-cooking turkey is avoiding dryness. Here’s how to keep it juicy every time:
- Use broth or water: Pour liquid into the slow cooker to keep the environment moist.
- Cook on low: Slow and low heat helps break down the meat gently without drying it out.
- Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer and take the turkey out as soon as it hits 165°F (74°C).
- Rest before slicing: Let it rest 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute, making your turkey tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – It’s perfect for gently cooking the turkey all day without drying it out.
- Meat thermometer – Helps you check the turkey’s internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Small bowl – For mixing the garlic and herb marinade easily.
- Rubber spatula or spoon – Makes it simple to spread the marinade evenly over the turkey.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For slicing the turkey breast cleanly after it rests.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap fresh herbs for Italian seasoning for a more familiar, all-in-one flavor blend.
- Add sliced onions or carrots under the turkey to infuse sweetness and keep it moist.
- Replace turkey breast with chicken breast to shorten cooking time while keeping the recipe easy.
- Mix in a squeeze of lemon juice or zest with the herbs for a fresh, bright taste.
Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey and Marinade:
- 2 to 3 pounds boneless turkey breast
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes for prep, then 4 to 5 hours cooking time on low in the slow cooker (or 2 to 3 hours on high). After cooking, allow about 10 minutes for the turkey to rest before slicing. So plan for roughly 5 to 6 hours from start to finish if cooking on low, perfect for setting it and forgetting it during the day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Herb Garlic Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and sage. Stir until everything is evenly mixed, creating a fragrant herb garlic marinade.
2. Prepare the Turkey:
Rub the marinade all over the turkey breast, making sure every side is coated well. This brings in lots of flavor as it cooks.
3. Slow Cook the Turkey:
Place the turkey breast in your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth or water around it to keep the turkey moist while cooking. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Remove the turkey breast from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes—it helps keep the juices inside. Then slice it against the grain. Serve on a platter and spoon some of the tasty cooking juices over the top. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs if you like for a lovely presentation.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey Breast for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent dryness.
Can I Make This Turkey Breast in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! You can roast it at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use the same herb marinade and cover loosely with foil while baking to keep it moist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a little broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Substitute Other Herbs in This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to swap rosemary, thyme, and sage with herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley based on your taste preferences. Dried herbs can be used too, just reduce the quantities to about one-third.
