Tender Slow Cooker Turkey Crown

Prepare to create a truly tender and flavorful slow cooker turkey crown recipe that demands minimal prep time and delivers a perfect meal, ready exactly when you are. Whether it’s for a festive holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this method ensures succulent results. Just like our popular Instant Pot turkey or our signature dry rub, this recipe utilizes simple seasonings for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Are you searching for effortless slow cooker turkey breast recipes for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion? Look no further! This simple Crockpot method makes cooking a delicious turkey crown incredibly easy. With just a few key ingredients, you can prepare a magnificent turkey for your family, allowing your slow cooker to do all the hard work. (Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you).

What Exactly is a Turkey Crown?

A turkey crown is essentially the breast meat of the turkey, still attached to the bone, with the legs and wings removed. This cut is an increasingly popular choice for a variety of reasons. It’s perfect for smaller gatherings, typically serving 2 to 6 people, or whenever you prefer to cook only the white meat. It offers the same impressive presentation as a whole turkey but with much less hassle and significantly reduced cooking time. Choosing a turkey crown also means less waste, as you’re primarily cooking the most sought-after part of the bird.

Finding an easy turkey crown recipe for the holidays was a game-changer for me, especially during years when it was just a few of us at home. While I often enjoy leftover turkey recipes even more than the main meal, cooking a whole bird can be overwhelming and often results in far too much food. This slow cooker method allows you to cook just the succulent white meat – the breasts – low and slow all day, ensuring they turn out incredibly moist and flavorful every single time. It’s the perfect solution for a manageable, yet equally impressive, holiday centerpiece.

Essential Ingredient Notes for Your Slow Cooker Turkey Crown

To achieve the best results, selecting the right ingredients is key. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is important:

• Turkey Crown: For this recipe, we used a 4.5 lb turkey crown. You can comfortably use one up to 5 pounds, depending on the size of your slow cooker. It’s crucial to ensure there’s enough room on all sides and above the turkey to allow for proper steam circulation, which is vital for even cooking and moisture.
• Butter: We highly recommend using good quality butter, such as Kerrygold salted butter, for its incredible creaminess and rich flavor that beautifully bastes the turkey from the inside out. If you have dietary restrictions, a dairy-free alternative works just as well. Softened butter is key for easy application.
• Lemon Slices: Adding fresh lemon slices on top of the turkey infuses a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat. Orange slices can be used for a slightly different, sweeter tang, offering a wonderful aromatic element as the turkey cooks.
• Cooking Liquid (Water or Chicken Broth): A bit of liquid at the bottom of the slow cooker is essential to create steam, ensuring your turkey remains incredibly moist. While water works, using chicken broth (or even vegetable broth) will impart additional depth of flavor, making your gravy even more delicious. Choose a broth with flavors you love.
• Seasonings: This recipe calls for a blend of classic poultry seasonings, but feel free to customize it to your preference. Our recommended blend, detailed in the printable recipe card below, includes garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. These herbs and spices complement turkey perfectly, creating a savory and aromatic crust.

Cooking a Boneless Turkey Crown in the Slow Cooker

Yes, absolutely! A boneless turkey crown or turkey breast can also be cooked successfully in the slow cooker. The main difference you’ll notice is a reduced cooking time, typically about 1 hour less than a bone-in crown. You would follow the same basic directions outlined in the recipe card below. While this particular recipe features a bone-in turkey crown, I’ve had fantastic results with a boneless turkey breast in the air fryer, which yields a lovely crisp skin. If you appreciate that slight crisp texture, a boneless breast is a great option, though the slow cooker prioritizes tenderness.

From Frozen to Fabulous: Slow Cooker Frozen Turkey Crown

One of the many benefits of using a slow cooker for your turkey crown is its forgiving nature, especially if you forgot to defrost it! This is a massive win, freeing up valuable oven space for all your holiday side dishes. If your turkey crown is frozen, don’t worry. The cooking time in the Crockpot doesn’t drastically change, perhaps an additional 30 minutes, depending on the size. This difference is negligible compared to the hours it would take to safely defrost and cook in a conventional oven. Just ensure your slow cooker reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

This method works wonders for smaller families or when you’re looking for an uncomplicated meal. For example, with just four of us this year, we still enjoyed delicious leftovers for two additional dinners! Below, you’ll find quick, step-by-step directions to make this Crockpot turkey breast, with a comprehensive printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

5 from 1 vote

Slow Cooker Turkey Crown Recipe

By
Justine

This recipe yields a tender slow cooker turkey crown with minimal prep, perfect for any meal. It’s truly a best Crockpot dinner!

Prep:

10
mins

Cook:

6
hrs

Servings:
6

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Equipment

• 1 slow cooker (6 quarts or larger recommended)

Ingredients

• 1 turkey crown, bone in, approximately 4.5-5 lbs (2 breasts still connected)
• 1/4 cup butter, softened (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth, or water

Seasonings

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp rosemary
• 2 lemons, sliced (or oranges for a different tang)

Instructions

1. Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker pot with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pot. This creates a moist cooking environment.
2. In a small bowl, combine all your seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, thyme, pepper, rosemary) and mix them thoroughly.
3. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey crown over the breast meat without completely detaching it. Take about half of the softened butter and rub it directly under the skin, spreading it evenly. Then, apply half of your seasoning mix underneath the skin as well. This step ensures flavor and moisture permeate the meat.
4. Sprinkle and rub the remaining seasoning mixture generously over the entire top surface of the turkey crown. Arrange lemon or orange slices on top.
5. Carefully place the seasoned turkey crown into the center of the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW heat for 5-6 hours. The turkey is done when the internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat (without touching the bone) reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
6. For crispy skin (optional): If you desire a golden, crispy skin, preheat your oven broiler. Carefully transfer the cooked turkey crown to a sheet pan and broil for 5-10 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the skin is beautifully browned and crisp. Alternatively, if you have a larger air fryer, spray the top with olive oil spray and air crisp at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
7. To make gravy from the drippings: Melt the remaining butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Pour the flavorful drippings from the slow cooker into the pan. You can add more chicken broth at this stage if you desire a larger quantity of gravy.
8. In a small separate bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of your hot liquid from the saucepan until you have a smooth slurry. Gradually pour this cornstarch mixture into the simmering drippings in the saucepan, stirring continuously. Continue to stir as the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Add more cornstarch slurry if you prefer it even thicker.

Video

Video Placeholder – For visual instructions on this slow cooker turkey crown recipe, please check our embedded video content.

Nutrition

Serving: 2oz


Calories: 214kcal


Carbohydrates: 4g


Protein: 29g


Fat: 10g


Saturated Fat: 5g


Cholesterol: 91mg


Sodium: 725mg


Potassium: 370mg


Fiber: 1g


Sugar: 1g


Vitamin A: 262IU


Vitamin C: 19mg


Calcium: 32mg


Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

Additional Info

Course:
Entree, Main Course

Cuisine:
American

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Explore Diverse Seasoning Options for Your Turkey Breast

When it comes to seasoning a turkey breast, the possibilities are vast, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your liking. The right blend of herbs and spices can truly elevate your slow-cooked turkey. Here are some common seasonings and herbs, along with tips on how to use them effectively:

1. Salt and Black Pepper: These are your foundational seasonings. A generous application enhances the natural flavors of the turkey. Use coarse salt for a better crust.
2. Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Essential for adding savory depth. These can be sprinkled directly onto the turkey or combined with other spices for a comprehensive rub. Consider using fresh minced garlic and onion for an even more potent flavor.
3. Dried Herb Blend: A classic mix includes thyme, rosemary, sage, and oregano. These Mediterranean herbs infuse the turkey with warm, aromatic notes. They can be used individually or in varying combinations to achieve different flavor profiles.
4. Paprika (Sweet or Smoked): Adds a beautiful reddish hue and a touch of smoky sweetness. Smoked paprika, in particular, can mimic the flavor of a roasted turkey, even without direct roasting.
5. Poultry Seasoning: This convenient pre-made blend typically contains a harmonious mix of herbs like sage, thyme, marjoram, and other spices specifically formulated to complement turkey and chicken. It’s a foolproof option for classic holiday flavors.
6. Citrus Zest (Lemon or Orange): Finely grated zest from a lemon or orange adds a bright, fresh, and slightly tangy flavor that lifts the richness of the turkey. It can be mixed into your butter rub or sprinkled on top.
7. Fresh Herbs: For an unparalleled aroma and flavor, fresh herbs are highly recommended. Finely chop fresh thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley, and either mix them into your softened butter to create a compound butter (which is fantastic under the skin!) or tuck whole sprigs into the slow cooker alongside the turkey.
8. Fat for Flavor and Moisture: Before applying seasonings, gently rub the turkey breast with a tablespoon or two of olive oil or softened butter. This acts as a binder for the seasonings, helps to keep the meat incredibly moist during the slow cooking process, and adds richness.

Always remember to adjust the seasoning amounts based on the size of your turkey crown and your personal taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect flavor combination!

Achieving Perfectly Crispy Turkey Breast Skin Post-Slow Cooker

While the slow cooker excels at producing incredibly moist and tender turkey meat, it typically doesn’t result in crispy skin. But don’t despair! Achieving that desirable golden-brown, crackling skin is surprisingly easy with a few extra steps:

• Broiler Method: Once your turkey crown has finished slow cooking and reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), carefully transfer it to a sheet pan. Preheat your oven broiler to high. Place the sheet pan under the broiler for 5-10 minutes. Watch it very closely, as skin can go from crispy to burnt in a flash! This quick blast of high heat will transform the skin into a delicious, crispy layer.
• Air Fryer Method: If you own a larger air fryer or a multi-cooker like a Ninja Foodi, this is another excellent option. After cooking in the slow cooker, transfer the turkey crown to your air fryer basket. Lightly spray the skin with olive oil or another cooking oil spray. Air crisp at 400°F (200°C) for just a few minutes, checking frequently, until the skin is beautifully golden and crisp. This method is often even faster than using the broiler.

No matter which method you choose, the key is constant vigilance to ensure your turkey skin achieves the perfect crispness without overcooking the meat or burning the skin.

Can You Slow Cook a Whole Turkey? (And Why a Crown is Better)

While theoretically possible, slow cooking a *whole* turkey is often impractical due to size constraints and inconsistent cooking results. A typical slow cooker simply isn’t large enough to accommodate a whole bird, and achieving even cooking for both white and dark meat in a slow cooker can be challenging. However, you *could* slow cook a whole turkey if you first cut it up into pieces. This way, the pieces fit easily into the slow cooker and cook more quickly and uniformly. For most home cooks seeking convenience and quality, focusing on a turkey crown or individual turkey pieces (like breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) is a far superior approach for slow cooking.

This recipe focuses on the turkey crown precisely because it maximizes the benefits of slow cooking – tender, juicy white meat without the fuss of a whole bird. If you’re aiming for incredibly crispy skin on other turkey cuts, especially if you have a multi-cooker, you might find useful tips in our pressure cooker turkey breast recipe, which often includes a crisping step.

Exciting Flavor Variations for Your Slow Cooker Turkey Crown

The beauty of this slow cooker turkey crown recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt the flavors to suit your palate or holiday theme. By varying the seasonings on the outside, or by introducing a marinade beforehand, you can create a completely different culinary experience. Always maintain the specified amount of liquid inside the pot to ensure your turkey stays moist and “steams” effectively throughout the cooking process. However, the type of liquid can certainly be altered to enhance the flavor. Here are a few ways to add exciting new dimensions to your slow-cooked turkey:

• Brining for Ultimate Moisture: For an exceptionally juicy and flavorful turkey, consider an overnight turkey brine. A citrus-infused brine, for example, can add incredible depth. Submerge the turkey crown in the brine the night before cooking to allow the flavors to truly penetrate the meat. Remember to pat the turkey very dry before applying your butter and seasonings after brining.
• Herb-Crusted Delight: Beyond the basic seasonings, experiment with different fresh or dried herb combinations. Think rosemary and garlic, sage and thyme, or a vibrant blend of fresh parsley, chives, and dill mixed into your softened butter.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chili powder into your seasoning rub. A touch of chipotle powder can also add a delightful smoky warmth.
• Sweet & Savory Glaze: Towards the end of the cooking cycle, you could brush the turkey with a simple glaze made from maple syrup and Dijon mustard, or apricot preserves and a dash of balsamic vinegar. If using the broiler to crisp the skin, this is the perfect time to apply the glaze for a beautiful caramelized finish.
• Aromatics in the Pot: Don’t limit your aromatics to just lemon slices. Consider adding quartered onions, whole garlic cloves, celery stalks, or carrots to the bottom of the slow cooker with the broth. These will infuse the turkey with more flavor and contribute to a richer gravy.
• Infused Broth: Instead of plain chicken broth, try using a rich vegetable broth, turkey broth, or even a white wine-infused broth for a more sophisticated flavor profile.

This recipe’s timing is based on a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast. If you’re using a boneless cut, it will likely cook faster, so start checking the internal temperature about an hour earlier. Nutritional information is provided as an estimate and will naturally vary based on your chosen ingredients and exact portion sizes.

Mastering Turkey Gravy from Slow Cooker Drippings

Creating a rich, homemade gravy from your slow cooker turkey drippings is simple and adds an incredible finishing touch to your meal. The flavors of your gravy will naturally depend on the seasonings you used and the natural juices from your turkey, so always taste and adjust seasonings to suit your preference. Here’s how to thicken it perfectly:

1. Strain the Drippings: After removing the turkey, pour all the flavorful liquid from the slow cooker into a fine-mesh sieve set over a saucepan. Press on any solids to extract maximum liquid, then discard the solids.
2. Bring to a Simmer: Place the saucepan with the strained drippings over medium-high heat on your stove. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. At this point, you can add more chicken or turkey broth if you desire a larger quantity of gravy.
3. Create a Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water or cold broth until you have a smooth, lump-free slurry. The colder liquid prevents lumps.
4. Thicken the Gravy: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering drippings in the saucepan, whisking constantly. Continue to stir as the gravy thickens. If you want a thicker gravy, you can make another small slurry and add it gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
5. Season to Taste: Taste the gravy and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash of a fresh herb like chopped parsley or sage.

This method works beautifully for any poultry drippings, even for richer gravies like our turkey neck gravy, which includes flavorful bits of meat.

Creative Ideas: What to Make with Leftover Slow Cooker Turkey

The beauty of cooking a turkey crown is not just the delicious main meal, but also the fantastic leftovers it provides! Tender, moist turkey breast can be used in countless ways, often as a substitute for chicken in your favorite recipes. Here are some inspiring ideas to make the most of your leftover turkey:

• Hearty Turkey Soup: Dice the turkey and add it to a simmering broth with vegetables, noodles or rice, and your favorite herbs for a comforting soup.
• Sliders or Sandwiches: Shred the turkey, toss it with a bit of gravy or barbecue sauce, and serve it on slider buns or your favorite bread for quick, satisfying meals. Add cranberry sauce for a classic holiday twist.
• Creamy Turkey Casserole: Combine diced turkey with cooked pasta or rice, a creamy sauce (like a mushroom or cheese sauce), and your choice of vegetables (peas, carrots, broccoli) for a comforting baked casserole.
• Turkey Salad: Chop the turkey finely and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, red onion, and a touch of fresh herbs for a delicious turkey salad, perfect for sandwiches or lettuce wraps.
• Quick Turkey Chili: Add diced turkey to your favorite chili recipe for a leaner protein alternative.
• Enchiladas or Tacos: Shredded turkey works wonderfully as a filling for enchiladas or tacos, especially when combined with a flavorful sauce and cheese.
• Stuffed Peppers or Potatoes: Mix diced turkey with rice, cheese, and vegetables, then stuff into bell peppers or baked potatoes for a wholesome meal.

Always prioritize safe food handling practices when storing, thawing, and reheating any leftover turkey. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage. If the turkey shows any signs of spoilage – such as an off smell, strange texture, or discoloration – it’s always best to discard it to avoid health risks. For even more inspiration, check out our ultimate collection of leftover turkey recipes everyone will love!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Turkey Crown