If you have been searching for a comforting yet elegantly simple dinner to wow your family or guests, this Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a tender, juicy turkey breast infused with a lavish garlic herb butter, slow-cooked to perfection so that every slice delivers incredible moisture and deep flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just craving a hearty meal, this recipe has a magical way of transforming basic ingredients into a delicious centerpiece that tastes like it took hours of effort but actually requires minimal hands-on time.

The dish is arranged on a white plate with a white marbled surface. The main part is two thick slices of cooked chicken with a light golden brown grilled skin and herbs sprinkled on top. A smooth layer of brown gravy sauce is poured over the chicken, spreading down towards the plate. On the top left of the plate, there are roasted whole baby mushrooms and green asparagus stalks, garnished with finely chopped herbs. A yellow lemon wedge rests near the vegetables. The bottom left corner of the plate has a rough-textured yellow cornbread piece with a golden crust. The colors include shades of golden brown, green, yellow, and creamy white. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, turning a modest turkey breast into a decadent meal with layers of flavor, mouthwatering aroma, and a gorgeous golden crust. Each item plays its part in building perfect texture, balance, and color.

Turkey breast (2.5 – 3 kg / 5-6 lb, skin on, bone in): The star of the dish, providing succulent meat and crispy skin when cooked properly.
Salt (1/2 tsp + 1 1/2 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors and seasons both the turkey and garlic herb butter perfectly.
Black pepper: Adds mild heat and a subtle bite to complement the garlic and herbs.
Brown onion (1, halved): Brings sweet depth and aroma, infusing the slow cooker juices.
Garlic (1 head halved + 4 large cloves minced): The heart of this recipe, delivering pungent richness inside and out.
Fresh herbs (3 sprigs rosemary, 8 sprigs thyme + 1 tbsp each chopped sage, rosemary, thyme, parsley): Fresh herbs create a fragrant herbaceous bouquet that elevates every bite.
Unsalted butter (150 g / 10 tbsp, softened): Acts as a luxurious carrier for garlic and herbs, helping the turkey skin achieve that irresistible golden crisp.
Oil (for drizzling): Used under the broiler to crisp skin perfectly without burning the butter.
Chicken broth or stock (for topping up slow cooker liquid): Keeps the cooking juices plentiful and forms the base for a luscious gravy.
Flour (1/3 cup / 50 g): Thickens the gravy to a silky finish.
Dark soy sauce or gravy colouring (1/2 tsp): Adds color and a subtle umami note to the gravy.

How to Make Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

Start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the finely chopped fresh herbs—sage, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. This herbaceous, creamy butter is what will really seep deep into the turkey breast, infusing each bite with vibrant freshness and savory richness.

Step 2: Loosen the Turkey Skin

Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels, then carefully slide a tablespoon beneath the skin to separate it from the flesh without tearing. This step is key to getting that garlic herb butter right under the skin, allowing the flavors to marinate deeply and the skin to crisp beautifully later.

Step 3: Slather the Butter All Over

Spread about two-thirds of the garlic herb butter evenly underneath the loosened skin, then use the remaining butter to coat the entire surface of the turkey, including the underside. This double application ensures every part of the turkey stays juicy and flavorful.

Step 4: Season and Marinate

Sprinkle the turkey skin liberally with salt and pepper. At this point, if you want to amp up the flavors even more, you can leave the turkey to marinate in the refrigerator for up to two days. This gives the salt time to tenderize the meat and the herbs to fully meld.

Step 5: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place the halved garlic head and onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. Lay the turkey breast on top with the skin facing up, then tuck in whole rosemary and thyme sprigs around and over the turkey. These aromatics infuse the cooking juices with earthy, herbal notes.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Juicy Perfection

Cook the turkey on low for about six hours, checking at four hours to make sure it’s progressing nicely. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) when you insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. This slow cooking method guarantees the meat turns fork-tender and deeply flavorful.

Step 7: Rest the Turkey

Carefully transfer the cooked turkey to a baking tray, reserving all the flavorful cooking juices. Tent the bird loosely with foil and let it rest for 20 minutes. Resting redistributes the juices for a moist, tender slice.

Step 8: Crisp the Skin Under the Broiler

Remove the herb sprigs and drizzle the turkey’s skin with oil—this is crucial to avoid burning the butter during crisping. Set the turkey under a high broiler/grill about 12 inches from the heat source for 5 to 10 minutes, watching closely until the skin bubbles and bronzes to a crispy, golden finish.

Step 9: Prepare the Glorious Gravy

Strain the slow cooker juices through a sieve, pressing onion and garlic to release maximum flavor. If needed, top up the liquid to about 2.5-3 cups with store-bought chicken broth. Skim off about a quarter cup of fat from the surface. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour and cook briefly to form a roux. Gradually add all the juices back, stirring until smooth and thickened. Season with dark soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste, then pour into a gravy jug for serving.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe

A white plate holds eight slices of roasted turkey, arranged in a slightly overlapping row. Each slice has a golden brown, crispy outer crust rubbed with green herbs, and the inside is light beige and juicy. A rich, glossy brown gravy is drizzled over the slices, gathering slightly at the base. Small sprigs of fresh green rosemary and thyme are placed on top and between the slices, adding a fresh touch. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs add a lovely touch for plating and a burst of fresh aroma. A few edible flowers or thin lemon slices also brighten the presentation beautifully without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

This turkey breast pairs perfectly with classic roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a vibrant wild rice salad. Don’t forget a tangy cranberry sauce or a zesty apple chutney to cut through the richness and add a pop of complementary flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the turkey breast and arranging it fan-like on a large platter, layering fresh herb sprigs between pieces. Drizzle warm gravy over the top or serve it on the side to let guests choose. For a festive touch, surrounding the slices with roasted root vegetables and fresh greens creates an inviting, colorful spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap leftover turkey tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for next-day sandwiches or quick reheated meals.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the turkey, slice it first to make thawing and reheating easier. Wrap portions tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Freeze gravy separately in smaller containers to preserve texture.

Reheating

Reheat turkey slices gently in the oven covered with foil or in a microwave on low power to avoid drying out. Warm the gravy on the stove until simmering, then pour over the turkey for that freshly made taste and moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

You absolutely can! Just note that boneless breasts might cook slightly faster, so start checking the internal temperature about 30 minutes earlier to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to loosen the skin before applying the butter?

Yes, loosening the skin allows the garlic herb butter to penetrate directly into the meat, keeping it juicy and adding depth of flavor that you wouldn’t get simply rubbing it on top.

Can I prepare this recipe without fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs provide the best aroma and flavor, dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch. Use about one-third the amount, and add them to the butter mix so they hydrate during cooking.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the breast.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker? Can I oven-roast instead?

This Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe relies on slow, moist cooking, but you can roast the turkey in the oven at 160°C (320°F), loosely covered, for about 2 to 2.5 hours, basting occasionally. Finish under the broiler to crisp the skin as described.

Final Thoughts

If you want a recipe that’s as fuss-free as it is delicious, the Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe is a guaranteed winner in your kitchen. It’s an effortless way to enjoy tender, flavorful turkey with minimal stress and maximum yum. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own special go-to for cozy dinners and festive occasions alike!

Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Turkey Breast Recipe