Tender and Juicy Slow Cooked BBQ Turkey Breast
Nutritional value per serving
Calories320kcal
Carbs10gram
Fat8gram
Protein45gram
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless turkey breast (Choose fresh, firm, pale pink turkey breast with minimal liquid in packaging)1 kg
- BBQ sauce (select your favorite brand or homemade, opt for a sauce without added preservatives for best flavor)150 ml
- Smoked paprika (adds smokiness and a mild heat)1 tbsp
- Garlic powder (for depth of flavor)1 tsp
- Onion powder (enhances savoriness)1 tsp
- Brown sugar (balances tanginess and adds slight sweetness)1 tbsp
- Salt (preferably kosher salt or sea salt for better seasoning control)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground for best taste)0.5 tsp
- Olive oil (helps rub adhere and promotes moisture retention)2 tbsp
Discover the secret to a tender, juicy turkey breast infused with smoky BBQ flavor using your slow cooker. This beginner-friendly recipe walks you through each step, highlighting essential food safety practices to ensure your meal is not only delicious but safe. Using affordable, simple ingredients, this recipe costs approximately $12 (10€ / 8£ / 950₹) and yields 4 servings totaling about 320 calories each. Perfect for a wholesome, protein-rich meal with medium complexity, taking around 6 hours from prep to plate, ideal for making easy, flavorful family dinners or meal prep.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the turkey breast
1Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Proper drying ensures the rub sticks well and helps form a nice crust during cooking. Always wash your hands before and after handling raw poultry to avoid cross-contamination.
Make the spice rub
2In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. This rub will infuse your turkey with rich depth and subtle sweetness.
Apply olive oil and rub
3Brush olive oil evenly over all sides of the turkey breast. Sprinkle the spice rub over the turkey, massaging it gently into the meat to coat completely. This step enhances flavor penetration and keeps the turkey moist during cooking.
Place turkey in slow cooker
4Place the seasoned turkey breast into the slow cooker. Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the turkey, spreading it evenly to add moisture and smoky flavor.
Slow cook the turkey
5Cover and cook the turkey on low heat setting for 5 to 6 hours. Cooking low and slow allows collagen breakdown, resulting in tender, juicy meat. Avoid opening the lid repeatedly to keep heat and moisture inside.
Check internal temperature
6Using a meat thermometer, check the thickest part of the turkey breast. It must reach at least 74°C (165°F) to be safe for consumption. Insert the thermometer horizontally for an accurate reading. If it hasn't reached this temperature, cook longer and recheck every 15 minutes.
Apply remaining BBQ sauce and rest
7Once the turkey reaches the proper temperature, brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the turkey breast. Allow the turkey to rest in the slow cooker with the lid off for 10-15 minutes. Resting lets juices redistribute, ensuring moist, flavorful meat.
Slice and serve
8Transfer the turkey breast to a cutting board. Slice against the grain into desired thickness and serve warm. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
-Use a digital instant-read thermometer to accurately monitor the turkey's internal temperature for safety and perfect doneness.
-If you prefer a smoky BBQ flavor without a smoker, adding smoked paprika and slow cooking in the slow cooker offers a delicious alternative.
-Leftover turkey is great for sandwiches or salads. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days to maintain freshness and safety.
-For a sweeter sauce, mix honey or maple syrup into your BBQ sauce before applying.
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board and sharp knife
Shopping List
- [ ] 1 kg Boneless skinless turkey breast ($8) - Choose fresh and firm turkey breast, avoid packages with excess liquid.
- [ ] 150 ml BBQ sauce ($2) - Pick your favorite flavor; for fresher taste, select bottles without preservatives.
- [ ] Smoked paprika ($0.50 for small jar) - Adds smoky essence; get fresh jar if possible for best aroma.
- [ ] Garlic powder ($0.30 sachet) - Use fresh for intense flavor.
- [ ] Onion powder ($0.30 sachet)
- [ ] Brown sugar ($0.20 for required amount) - Dark brown sugar gives deeper molasses taste.
- [ ] Salt ($0.10)
- [ ] Black pepper ($0.10)
- [ ] Olive oil ($0.50 for 2 tbsp)
Total approximate cost: $12.00
FAQ
Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
It's best to thaw the turkey completely in the refrigerator before slow cooking to ensure even cooking and reach the safe internal temperature.
How do I avoid the turkey drying out in the slow cooker?
Using olive oil and BBQ sauce helps maintain moisture. Also, avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking, as it lets out heat and moisture.
Can I substitute turkey breast with chicken breast?
Yes, but chicken breasts cook faster. Reduce cooking time to about 3-4 hours on low and check temperature to 74°C (165°F).
What side dishes go well with this slow cooked BBQ turkey breast?
Coleslaw, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad complement the flavors well.