Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Maple Syrup

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Maple Syrup

For a flavorful and easy holiday or weeknight meal.

Turkey breast is a versatile and delicious option for a holiday feast or an everyday dinner. This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Maple Syrup recipe brings together the rich sweetness of maple syrup and the savory goodness of herbs to create a dish that’s moist, tender, and packed with flavor. Unlike cooking a whole turkey, this recipe is less intimidating, perfect for small gatherings, and leaves you with minimal cleanup. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can prepare a show-stopping main course without the stress.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply want a hearty weeknight meal, this dish guarantees juicy turkey with a delightful glaze. Let your slow cooker do the work while you focus on enjoying the moments with your loved ones.

Ingredients

• 1 turkey breast (4-6 pounds, bone-in or boneless)
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup chicken or turkey broth

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: Approximately 4-5 hours 10 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey Breast
   • Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
   • Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Make the Maple Glaze
   • In a small mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and paprika. Whisk until well blended.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
   • Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker with the skin side up.
   • Pour the chicken or turkey broth around the turkey breast to keep it moist during cooking.
   • Brush or spoon the maple glaze over the turkey breast, ensuring it is fully coated.
4. Cook the Turkey Breast
   • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat for 4-5 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
5. Optional: Crisp the Skin
   • For a golden, crispy skin, transfer the cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet. Brush it with additional glaze and broil it in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   • Allow the turkey to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
   • Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce, for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh or high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor; avoid artificial substitutes.
• To enhance the herbaceous flavor, add fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs in the slow cooker.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. They are excellent for sandwiches, soups, or salads.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the elegance of a holiday-worthy glaze. The slow, steady cooking ensures the turkey breast remains moist, while the glaze infuses the meat with layers of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and satisfying.

If you’re searching for an effortless yet impressive centerpiece for your table, this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Maple Syrup is a fantastic choice. The sweet and savory glaze transforms a simple turkey breast into a dish bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for making memories around the dinner table, whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a stress-free cooking experience that delivers delicious results every time!