Tender & Juicy Slow-Cooked Turkey Thighs - Quick & Easy Recipe
Nutritional value per serving
Calories320kcal
Carbs0gram
Fat15gram
Protein38gram
Ingredients
- Turkey thigh, bone-in and skin-on (choose fresh, firm, and pale pink turkey thighs)1 kg
- Olive oil (extra virgin recommended for better flavor)2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (fresh, preferably organic)3 pieces
- Fresh rosemary sprigs2 pieces
- Fresh thyme sprigs2 pieces
- Onion (medium, yellow or white)1 piece
- Salt (preferably sea salt or kosher salt)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)0.5 tsp
- Chicken broth or water (low sodium preferred)250 ml
This slow-cooked turkey thigh recipe delivers tender, juicy meat infused with aromatic herbs and spices, perfect for a comforting meal any day. Designed for home cooks of all levels, it requires minimal preparation and simple ingredients, making it quick and easy to prepare using a slow cooker. The recipe emphasizes food safety, highlighting the importance of cooking turkey thighs to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure it is safe to eat. Ingredients cost approximately $12 / €11 / £9 / ₹900. Total caloric content per serving is about 320 kcal. This recipe is suitable for anyone looking for a tasty, protein-rich dish and fits well in a balanced diet. The cooking process is straightforward, with a total time of approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes, mostly hands-off cooking in a slow cooker, perfect for busy schedules.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
1Peel and crush the garlic cloves. Peel and slice the onion into rings. Trim rosemary and thyme sprigs. Pat the turkey thigh dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks and browning is optimal.
Season the Turkey Thigh
2Rub olive oil all over the turkey thigh. Season evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper, making sure to cover both sides. Rub the crushed garlic and fresh herbs onto and around the turkey thigh for aromatic flavor infusion.
Layer the Slow Cooker
3Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful bed for the turkey and to prevent sticking. Put the seasoned turkey thigh on top of the onions. Pour the chicken broth or water gently around the turkey (not on top, to keep the seasoning) to add moisture during cooking.
Set the Slow Cooker Temperature
4Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 5 hours. Cooking low and slow allows the turkey to become tender while retaining moisture.
Check the Internal Temperature
5After 5 hours, use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the turkey thigh, avoiding bone. The internal temperature must reach at least 74°C (165°F) to be safe for consumption. If it has not reached this temperature, cook for additional 15-minute increments and check again.
Rest the Turkey Thigh
6Once the turkey is fully cooked and safe, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest on a plate, loosely covered with foil, for about 10 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat.
Cooking Tips
1Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw turkey and other ingredients.
2Use a reliable meat thermometer to accurately check cooking temperature for food safety.
3If you don't have fresh herbs, dried rosemary and thyme can be substituted – use 1 tsp each instead of fresh sprigs.
4For a crispier skin, you can sear the turkey thigh in a hot pan for 3-4 minutes on each side before placing it in the slow cooker.
5Leftover turkey can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Tongs or spatula
- Plate for resting the turkey
- Paper towels
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Turkey thigh (1 kg) - Approximately $8 - Look for meat with firm texture and pale pink color with no unpleasant smell.
- [ ] Olive oil (2 tbsp) - Approximately $0.50 - Extra virgin olive oil offers better flavor.
- [ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) - Approximately $0.30 - Choose firm bulbs with tight, unblemished skin.
- [ ] Fresh rosemary sprigs (2 pieces) - Approximately $1 - Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor.
- [ ] Fresh thyme sprigs (2 pieces) - Approximately $1 - Can often find fresh in bundles.
- [ ] Onion (1 medium) - Approximately $0.20 - Choose firm and heavy onions without soft spots.
- [ ] Salt (1 tsp) - negligible cost - Kosher or sea salt recommended.
- [ ] Black pepper (0.5 tsp) - negligible cost - Freshly ground for best aroma.
- [ ] Chicken broth or water (250 ml) - Approximately $0.50 if broth - Low sodium preferred.
Total estimated cost: $12.00
FAQ
Can I use frozen turkey thigh for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the turkey thigh in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and accurate food safety.
How can I check if the turkey thigh is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh; it should read at least 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
Can I cook the turkey thigh on high instead of low?
You can, but cooking on low for 5 hours yields more tender meat. On high, it may take about 3 hours, but be cautious to avoid drying out the meat.
What can I serve with slow-cooked turkey thigh?
Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad pair well with this flavorful turkey dish.