Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe

I absolutely love this Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe because it’s the ultimate way to get tender, flavorful turkey without any fuss. When I first tried cooking turkey breast in my slow cooker, I struggled with dryness, but this method changed everything—it locks in moisture while the veggies add a natural sweetness and depth to the whole dish.

This recipe works beautifully for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal that feels special. You’ll find that the turkey turns out juicy every time, and the slow cooker does all the hard work while you go about your day—something I appreciate more than you know!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-off cooking: Simply prep, set your crockpot, and let it work its magic while you focus on other things.
  • Perfectly juicy turkey: The slow cooking method keeps the turkey tender and moist every single time.
  • Flavor-packed veggies included: The carrots, celery, and onions soak up all those savory juices, making a delicious side along with the turkey.
  • Great for any occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday treat, this recipe impresses without needing complicated steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that compliment each other beautifully. A little butter and seasoning take the turkey to the next level, while the broth and fresh vegetables slow cook to create a perfect flavor base.

  • Butter: Softened butter helps the seasoning stick and adds richness to the turkey skin.
  • Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor without overpowering.
  • Onion powder: Adds savory depth so you don’t need fresh onions in the seasoning mix.
  • Garlic powder: Gives a subtle garlic punch without making it too strong.
  • Black pepper: Just enough heat to balance flavors.
  • Paprika: Adds mild smokiness and a beautiful color to the turkey skin.
  • Chicken broth: Keeps the turkey moist and infuses flavor as it cooks with the veggies.
  • Celery stalks: Adds a slight bitterness and fresh aroma that pairs perfectly with turkey.
  • Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances the savory meat wonderfully.
  • Yellow onion: Sliced into wedges so it cooks soft and juicy.
  • Boneless turkey breast with skin: About 2 to 2 ½ pounds is perfect for this recipe, and the skin helps keep the meat succulent.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love to switch things up depending on what I have on hand or the season. Feel free to customize this Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe in ways that suit your taste or dietary needs—you can’t go wrong here!

  • Herb twist: I sometimes add fresh rosemary or thyme under the skin for an herby aroma that fills the house.
  • Spicy kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the butter mix gives the turkey a subtle heat that my family loves.
  • Vegetable swap: I’ve tried parsnips or sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a sweeter side that’s just as comforting.
  • Gluten-free adjustments: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone avoiding gluten.

How to Make Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Create the Flavored Butter Rub

Start by mixing softened butter with kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika in a small bowl. I usually use my hands to spread this mixture evenly all over the turkey breast, especially under the skin if you can—this seals in flavor and moisture. Trust me, don’t skimp on this step; the butter rub is the secret behind that juicy, flavorful bite.

Step 2: Prep the Crockpot with Vegetables and Broth

Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker to keep everything moist and flavorful during cooking. Then add the halved celery stalks, quartered carrots, and sliced onion wedges right on top of the broth as a cozy bed for your turkey. These veggies not only create a flavorful steam but also soak up all the turkey juices, making a delicious side.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Turkey Breast

Place the seasoned turkey breast skin side up on top of the veggies. Put the lid on and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours until the internal temperature hits 165°F—using a meat thermometer is a game changer for perfect doneness. I like to start checking at 5 hours though because overcooking can dry it out; slow cookers vary, so watch closely.

Step 4: Optional Broil for Crispy Skin

If you want that golden, crispy skin like from a roast turkey, transfer the turkey breast to a foil-lined baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 3–5 minutes. Keep a close eye because it browns fast, and nobody wants burnt skin! This step adds a beautiful finishing touch that looks and tastes fantastic.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

After cooking, let your juicy crockpot turkey breast rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This lets the juices redistribute and means your slices will be tender, not dry or crumbly. It’s a simple step but one I never skip! Plus, it’s a great excuse to admire your delicious creation.

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Pro Tips for Making Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe

  • Butter under the skin: Once I learned to spread butter under the skin, the turkey went from average to spectacularly juicy every time.
  • Use a meat thermometer: I always rely on this to avoid overcooking, which can sneak up on you with slow cooker recipes.
  • Layer veggies evenly: Lining the crockpot with veggies creates a natural roasting rack and flavors the broth for tasty drippings.
  • Don’t skip the resting time: I once carved immediately and noticed dry slices, so resting became non-negotiable in my kitchen.

How to Serve Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe

The image shows a dish with several thick slices of cooked chicken placed on top of bright orange carrot pieces and light yellow onion wedges at the bottom. The chicken has a golden brown, slightly crispy skin with visible black pepper seasoning and tender white meat inside. The vegetables are soft and slightly shiny from cooking, arranged in a round dark pot. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the turkey before serving—it brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. A light drizzle of pan juices over the slices ties everything together beautifully and keeps each bite moist.

Side Dishes

My family goes crazy for mashed potatoes or creamy polenta alongside this juicy crockpot turkey breast with vegetables recipe. Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans sautéed with garlic are my go-to greens for a well-rounded, comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arrange thick turkey slices over a bed of the veggies with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges on the side. It makes the plate look festive and invites everyone to dig in. I even use a wooden cutting board to bring a rustic touch to the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover turkey breast slices and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find that keeping some of the cooking juices in the container helps maintain moisture and flavor so the turkey doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

I’ve frozen leftover turkey breast successfully by wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps well for up to 2 months and tastes almost as good as fresh when thawed gently.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming slices gently in the oven wrapped in foil with a splash of broth or pan juices; this helps keep the turkey juicy instead of dry and rubbery. Microwaving works too but I watch it carefully to avoid overheating.

FAQs

  1. Can I use bone-in turkey breast for this Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe?

    Absolutely! Bone-in turkey breast usually takes a bit longer to cook, so adjust your slow cooker time to about 6-7 hours on low. Using a meat thermometer is key to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety and perfect juiciness.

  2. What if I don’t have chicken broth? Can I substitute it?

    You can substitute water with a splash of white wine or vegetable broth for added flavor. Just keep in mind that chicken broth adds savory depth, so if you swap it out, consider adjusting your seasoning accordingly to keep the taste balanced.

  3. Is it okay to cook the turkey breast on high instead of low?

    Cooking on high can work but it risks drying out the turkey because the cooking time shortens and the slow, gentle heat is lost. I recommend sticking to low for the juiciest, most tender results.

  4. How do I know when the turkey breast is done?

    The best way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. When it reads 165°F, your turkey is perfectly cooked and safe to eat. Avoid cutting into it too early to check, as juices may escape and cause dryness.

Final Thoughts

This Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe quickly became a favorite in my kitchen because it’s easy, reliable, and downright delicious. I love how it frees me up while delivering a comforting, impressive meal with minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how wonderfully juicy turkey can be without spending hours in the kitchen—consider this your new go-to for fuss-free family dinners!

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Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe

Juicy Crockpot Turkey Breast with Vegetables Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours
  • Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Crockpot Turkey Breast recipe delivers a juicy and flavorful turkey breast cooked low and slow with aromatic vegetables and a seasoned butter rub. It’s an effortless way to prepare tender turkey with minimal hands-on time, perfect for a comforting family meal or holiday dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Turkey and Butter Rub

  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Vegetables and Broth

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 stalks celery, halved
  • 3 carrots, quartered
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into 1/2 inch wedges
  • 1 boneless turkey breast with skin, about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Butter Rub: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all spices are evenly incorporated into the butter.
  2. Apply the Butter Rub to Turkey: Spread the seasoned butter mixture evenly all over the turkey breast, ensuring the entire surface, especially under the skin if possible, is covered to maximize flavor and moisture.
  3. Prepare Slow Cooker Base: Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker, then add the halved celery, quartered carrots, and sliced onion to create a flavorful bed for the turkey.
  4. Place Turkey in Slow Cooker: Set the turkey breast skin side up on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker, allowing it to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the broth and vegetables.
  5. Cook the Turkey: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 5 to 6 hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which indicates the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  6. Optional Broiling for Crispy Skin: For a browned and crispy skin, transfer the cooked turkey breast to a foil-lined baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy serving.

Notes

  • This method ensures the turkey breast remains juicy and tender, eliminating the dryness commonly experienced with oven roasting.
  • You can vary the spices in the butter rub to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
  • The cooked vegetables can be served alongside the turkey or pureed into a side dish or gravy base.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make great sandwiches or salads.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 6 oz cooked turkey breast with vegetables)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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