If you’re craving a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s packed with cozy flavors, then you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herb Seasoning and Garlic Onions Recipe. I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and every time it comes out tender, juicy, and so fragrant with herbs and garlic, it feels like a warm hug right on your plate. Whether it’s for a small family dinner or a casual gathering, this slow cooker recipe frees you up to focus on other things while delivering restaurant-quality results. Trust me, it’s fan-freaking-tastic, and I can’t wait to share all the tips that’ll make you a pro at it.

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Why This Recipe Works

Ultimate Tenderness: Slow cooking gently breaks down the turkey breast, resulting in meat that’s juicy and melt-in-your-mouth soft every time.
Flavor Boost from Herbs and Garlic: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and roasted garlic onions infuse the turkey with layers of aromatic, savory goodness.
Hands-Off Cooking: You set it, forget it, and come back to an impressive, flavorful main that’s perfect for busy days or entertaining.
Versatility: This recipe adapts easily to your taste, whether you want to add a spicy kick or make it herb-forward.

Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herb Seasoning and Garlic Onions, turkey breast slow cooker recipe, easy slow cooker turkey, tender turkey breast recipe, herb turkey breast slow cooker - A sliced roasted piece of white meat with a brown outer crust sits on a bed of cooked onion slices, halved roasted garlic, and fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme inside a dark pan. The meat is thick, with a juicy, firm inside that contrasts with its slightly crispy browned edge. The onions look soft and lightly browned, while the garlic reveals golden cloves. The green herbs add a fresh touch around the meat. The background surface is white marble. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This combination of simple spices, fragrant herbs, and fresh aromatics creates a flavor base that’s anything but basic. Each ingredient plays its part in bringing out the best in the turkey breast, keeping it moist and deeply flavorful throughout the slow cook.

Garlic powder: Adds a mellow, slightly sweet garlic flavor that keeps well in the seasoning mix.
Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth and a beautiful color to the turkey skin.
Onion powder: Enhances the savory profile without extra moisture.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
Ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and a peppery edge.
Olive oil: Helps make a paste with the spices to firmly coat the turkey and lock in moisture.
Chicken broth: Creates steam in the slow cooker, keeping the turkey moist and providing flavorful drippings for gravy.
Boneless turkey breast: The star—choose a good quality fresh or thawed breast, around 3-4 lbs for this recipe size.
Garlic head: Roasting whole garlic in the cooker softens it and adds rich, mellow garlic flavor.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the aroma and juices.
Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs: Their woodsy, pine-like notes marry beautifully with roasted turkey.

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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.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herb Seasoning and Garlic Onions Recipe is how easy it is to tweak depending on what you have on hand or what flavors you prefer — don’t hesitate to make it yours.

Variation: I like adding a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar to the broth sometimes for a subtle tang that brightens the whole dish.
Dietary tweak: For a dairy-free gravy, skip the cream and thicken drippings with cornstarch mixed in cold water—you’ll still get a luscious sauce without any fuss.
Seasonal touch: In the fall, I sometimes toss in chopped carrots or parsnips beneath the turkey for an easy one-pot roasted veggie side.
Spice it up: If you like heat, sprinkle cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder into your seasoning paste for a smoky kick.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herb Seasoning and Garlic Onions Recipe

Step 1: Create the Herb-Packed Seasoning Paste

I start by mixing garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper with olive oil in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste. This not only makes it easier to rub all over the turkey but also ensures each bite is bite is bursting with evenly distributed flavor. I like to get under the skin where I can, or just give the entire surface a generous massage — don’t be shy, it really helps lock in moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Layer the Slow Cooker Base

Next, I slice a yellow onion in half and a head of garlic in half horizontally, and layer them in the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a bed that lifts the turkey slightly out of the broth so it steams rather than boils, protecting the texture. Pouring in the chicken broth adds moisture and enriches the turkey with subtle depth.

Step 3: Add the Turkey, Herbs, and Start Slow Cooking

Place the seasoned turkey breast on top of the garlic and onions, tucking fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs around for that herbal aroma that fills your kitchen. Cover with the lid, set it on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, and then go about your day. I absolutely love coming back to a house filled with that warm, herby smell—the slow cooker really does the heavy lifting.

Step 4: Optional Crisping for Picture-Perfect Skin

If you want that golden, crispy skin, here’s a little trick I use: transfer the turkey breast to a wire rack set over a sheet pan and pop it under the broiler on low for 5-8 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn, but that extra step adds a lovely texture contrast that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Don’t forget to save the cooking drippings — they’re pure gold for making a quick gravy or pouring right over your slices. I usually strain and thicken them with a bit of cornstarch or flour for an easy sauce that brings everything together.

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Tips from My Kitchen

Room Temperature Turkey: Let your turkey breast sit out for about 15 minutes before applying the rub — it helps it cook more evenly in the slow cooker.
Don’t Skip the Broth: The chicken broth adds moisture and prevents the meat from drying out, making a big difference in tenderness.
Herbs on Top: Placing thyme and rosemary on top rather than underneath helps the flavors infuse without turning bitter from sitting in liquid for hours.
Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey reads 165°F; this prevents overcooking and keeps the breast juicy.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herb Seasoning and Garlic Onions Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep garnishes simple and fresh—some chopped parsley or a few sprigs of fresh thyme brighten the plate and echo the herb flavors inside the turkey. A lemon wedge on the side adds a pop of citrus that wakes up the palate.

Side Dishes

Pair this turkey with classic mashed potatoes, green beans sautéed in garlic, or roasted root vegetables for an easy, comforting meal. I’ve also served it alongside wild rice pilaf or a crisp, bright salad for a lighter touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to carve the turkey breast into thick slices and fan them out on a wooden board with bowls of cranberry sauce, herby gravy, and roasted garlic cloves. It makes for a stunning centerpiece that invites sharing and conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, slice the leftover turkey and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I like to separate slices with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.

Freezing

This slow cooker turkey breast freezes beautifully. Just wrap individual slices or the whole breast tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming slices gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep them juicy, or loosely covered in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but be careful not to overcook and dry out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in turkey breast for this slow cooker recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in turkey breast can add extra flavor and moisture, but it may require a slightly longer cooking time—usually 8-9 hours on low. Just be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.
Do I need to brown the turkey breast before slow cooking?

It’s not required, but if you want to add some extra depth of flavor and a bit of color, you can quickly sear the turkey breast in a hot pan before placing it in the slow cooker. Otherwise, the broiling step after cooking works well to crisp the skin.
Can I prepare this recipe the day before and slow cook it later?

Yes! You can rub the seasoning on the turkey breast and keep it covered in the fridge overnight. This actually boosts flavor penetration, making the turkey even tastier when you slow cook it the next day.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt will work in a pinch. The slow cooker does a great job infusing those herb and onion flavors into the turkey.
How do I know when the turkey breast is done?

The most reliable way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast—it should reach 165°F. This ensures the turkey is safe to eat but still juicy and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Herb Seasoning and Garlic Onions Recipe has become one of my go-to meals when I want something comforting yet effortless. Its amazing aroma fills the house and the juicy, flavorful meat always impresses my family and guests alike. If you’re looking for a foolproof way to get tender turkey that feels special without the fuss, I can’t recommend this enough. Give it a try—you’ll thank me the next time turkey night rolls around.