Thanksgiving Slow-Cooker Turkey Breast with Lemon-Garlic Gravy

Thanksgiving Slow-Cooker Turkey Breast with Lemon-Garlic Gravy

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This Thanksgiving Slow-Cooker Turkey Breast is a stress-free way to prepare a flavorful, tender turkey with minimal effort. The slow cooker locks in moisture while infusing the turkey with a blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs. The accompanying lemon-garlic gravy is the perfect finishing touch, offering a bright and savory complement to your Thanksgiving feast.

Ingredients

For the Turkey:

  • 4-5 lb bone-in turkey breast
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 cup chicken or turkey broth

For the Lemon-Garlic Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1½ cups drippings from the slow cooker (supplement with broth if needed)
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Turkey:

  1. Mix the butter blend:
    In a small bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Prepare the turkey:
    Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Carefully loosen the skin from the meat and spread the butter mixture evenly under the skin. Rub any remaining mixture over the surface of the turkey.
  3. Assemble in the slow cooker:
    Place the onion quarters and lemon halves in the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the turkey breast on top, skin-side up. Pour the broth around the turkey.
  4. Cook the turkey:
    Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured in the thickest part of the breast.
  5. Broil for crispy skin (optional):
    If desired, transfer the cooked turkey breast to a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes to crisp the skin.

Make the Lemon-Garlic Gravy:

  1. Prepare the roux:
    In a small saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour (or cornstarch) and cook for 1 minute until golden.
  2. Add the drippings:
    Gradually whisk in 1½ cups of the turkey drippings from the slow cooker. If needed, supplement with chicken broth to reach the desired volume.
  3. Flavor the gravy:
    Add the lemon juice and minced garlic, then simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

  1. Carve the turkey breast and arrange on a serving platter. Drizzle with lemon-garlic gravy and serve the remaining gravy on the side.

Notes:

  • Optional add-ins: Add a bay leaf or fresh sage sprig to the slow cooker for additional aroma.
  • Make-ahead gravy: Prepare the gravy ahead of time using store-bought broth and simply add the drippings after cooking the turkey.
  • Leftovers: Store leftover turkey and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Thanksgiving Slow-Cooker Turkey Breast with Lemon-Garlic Gravy is a hassle-free centerpiece that delivers big on flavor. Perfect for a smaller holiday gathering, it’s sure to become a family favorite.