SLOW COOKER TURKEY BREAST

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Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

  1. Pat Dry:
    • Use paper towels to pat the turkey breast dry, removing excess moisture for better seasoning adherence.
  2. Season Butter:
    • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Butter the Turkey:
    • Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast with your fingers. Spread half of the butter mixture under the skin and the rest on top of the skin.

Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker

  1. Layer the Bottom:
    • Place the quartered onion, lemon slices, and a sprig of herbs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Add Turkey:
    • Place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the onions and lemons.
  3. Pour Broth:
    • Add the broth around the turkey breast (not over it) to keep the meat moist.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey

  1. Set and Forget:
    • Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, depending on the size of the turkey breast.
    • The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
  2. Optional Broiling:
    • For crispy skin, transfer the turkey breast to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Grav

  1. Strain the Drippings:
    • Pour the drippings from the slow cooker into a saucepan, discarding solids like onions and lemon.
  2. Create a Roux:
    • In the saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add Drippings:
    • Gradually whisk in the strained drippings until smooth. Simmer for 5 minutes, adding broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Carve the Turkey:
    • Slice the turkey breast and arrange on a serving platter.
  2. Drizzle with Gravy:
    • Serve with the prepared gravy on the side or drizzled over the meat.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Herbs: They elevate the flavor but dried herbs work well in a pinch.
  • Don’t Skip the Broth: It ensures the turkey stays moist during cooking.
  • Check Temperature Early: To avoid overcooking, start checking the turkey’s temperature 30 minutes before the end of the estimated cooking time.
  • Rest Before Slicing: Let the turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to retain juices.

Variations

  • Cajun Style: Replace herbs with Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
  • Citrus-Infused: Add orange slices along with the lemon for a sweet, citrusy aroma.
  • Garlic-Lemon Butter: Add extra lemon juice and zest to the butter mixture for a tangy twist.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store turkey in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or microwave until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast is a foolproof way to achieve tender, juicy turkey with minimal effort. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce for the ultimate comfort meal.

Give it a try and enjoy the taste of a perfectly cooked turkey with none of the stress!

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