Nobody wants to spend hours cooking a turkey only to end up with dry, flavorless meat. I discovered that cooking a boneless turkey breast in the Crockpot is an easy, reliable way to get tender, juicy results with minimal effort. Season, set, and let the slow cooker do the work — in a few hours you’ll have a flavorful turkey that’s perfect for holidays or simple weeknight dinners.
This recipe shows how to prepare a boneless turkey breast in a Crock Pot. Slow cooking locks in moisture and concentrates flavor, producing slices that stay juicy and tender. Use it for Thanksgiving, special dinners, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Turkey Breast Recipe
- Stress-free cooking: The slow cooker does the work — no basting or constant checking. Set it and forget it until it’s time to serve.
- Perfect for smaller gatherings: A turkey breast is ideal when you don’t need a whole bird. It fits well on small holiday tables or for family dinners.
- Juicy, never dry: The Crockpot keeps the meat moist, preventing the overcooking that often happens in the oven.
- Foolproof: This method is forgiving, so even first-time turkey cooks can get great results.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Turkey Breast
- Boneless turkey breast (about 2–3 pounds)
- 1 cup broth (chicken or turkey)
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika (or regular), poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper
Bone-In vs Boneless Turkey Breast
This recipe is written for a boneless turkey roast but will work with a bone-in breast as well. Boneless roasts often come in the 2–3 pound range. If the breast has skin, leaving it on helps baste the meat while cooking, adding flavor and moisture. Some boneless breasts come with little or no skin — choose according to availability and preference.
How to Cook a Turkey Breast in a Crock Pot
Full measurements and a printable recipe card are included below. Key steps:
- Prep the turkey: Pat the boneless breast dry so seasoning adheres well.
- Season generously: Rub the turkey with olive oil and a mix of poultry seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Optional herbs: thyme, oregano, or Creole seasoning.
- Layer the Crockpot: Pour broth into the slow cooker and add sliced onions to keep the turkey from sticking and to build flavor.
- Add the turkey: Place the seasoned breast on top of the onions and broth. Dot with butter if desired.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours, until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Optional crisping: If the breast has skin and you want it browned, transfer to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes, or air fry for a few minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Rest before slicing: Let the turkey rest 10–20 minutes before slicing to retain juices and keep slices moist.
Do You Remove the Net From the Turkey?
Netting holds some boneless breasts together, especially those formed from multiple pieces. Removing it before cooking can make it harder to keep the roast intact, but it does let seasonings penetrate better. If you remove the net and the breast starts to fall apart, you can secure it with toothpicks. If you prefer not to fuss with that, leave the net on and remove it after cooking.
Slow Cooker Crockpot Boneless Turkey Breast
Brandi Crawford
Pin Recipe
Equipment
-
Slow Cooker
-
Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
- 3 pound boneless turkey breast You can also use a bone-in breast.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika works too.
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 1 cup broth Chicken broth recommended.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
-
Pat the turkey breast dry. Combine and rub the spices over both sides so the breast is evenly seasoned.
-
Pour broth into the slow cooker and add the sliced onions. Place the seasoned turkey on top and dot with butter.
-
Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
-
Carefully remove the turkey from the slow cooker — it will be tender and may fall apart.
-
For crispy skin, air fry for 3–4 minutes at 400°F or broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes until golden.
-
Allow the turkey to rest 10–20 minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Nutrition figures are estimates provided for convenience and may vary depending on exact ingredients used. For precise values, calculate using the specific brands and amounts you use.
How to Season
A simple and effective seasoning blend is poultry seasoning, smoked paprika (or regular), onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add thyme, oregano, or a Creole seasoning for extra flavor.
Cook Time/How Long to Cook
Cook on Low for 3–4 hours, or until the thickest part of the breast reaches at least 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure safe, juicy results.
How to Get Crispy Skin
To crisp skin, place the cooked turkey on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until browned, or use an air fryer for a short blast at high heat.
Allow the Turkey Breast to Rest
Let the turkey rest 10–20 minutes before slicing so the juices settle back into the meat. Slicing too soon will cause the juices to run out and the meat to dry.
How to Store Crock Pot Turkey Breast
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
How to Reheat Boneless Turkey Breast
Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F or in the air fryer until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth while reheating helps maintain moisture.
How to Freeze Boneless Turkey Breast
Freeze sliced, diced, or shredded turkey in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thawed leftovers are great for salads, soups, casseroles, or sandwiches.
More Turkey Recipes
Try other turkey preparations to vary your meals, including smoked, roasted, air-fried, or slow-cooked wings and legs. Leftover turkey also works well in chilis, nachos, and soups.
Pair With These Side Dishes
Serve this turkey with classic sides like mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, scalloped corn, mashed sweet potatoes, collard greens, roasted okra, or a homemade cranberry sauce. A simple gravy made from pan drippings or a quick turkey gravy will complete the meal.
For a roasted alternative, try a boneless turkey breast roast prepared in the oven.