Cooking frozen boneless turkey breast in a crock pot is an easy, fuss-free way to enjoy delicious, tender turkey The slow cooker environment gently thaws and cooks the turkey to perfection with no prep besides seasonings
Follow our simple step-by-step guide for guaranteed moist and flavorful boneless turkey breast every time using a crock pot. We’ll cover everything from prep to cook times to help you nail it.
Benefits of Crock Pot Turkey Breast
There are many advantages to choosing a crock pot for cooking frozen turkey breast:
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Boneless breast is the ideal size for a crock pot. Fits perfectly and cooks evenly.
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The slow, moist heat prevents the delicate breast meat from drying out.
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Requires very little hands-on time. Just season and set it.
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No need to fully thaw breast in advance. Can go straight from freezer to crock.
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Infuses breast with flavors as it slowly cooks. Great for herbs, broths, and spices.
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Automatically switches to warm when done, so no worrying about overcooking.
Choosing the Right Size Breast
When selecting a frozen boneless turkey breast, aim for:
- 2-3 pounds for 4-6 servings
- 4-5 pounds for 8-10 servings
- 5-7 pounds for 10-12 servings
Two smaller breasts can be layered in the crock pot. Ensure no exposed areas so it cooks evenly.
Seasoning Your Breast
One benefit of crock pots is how well they infuse flavors into meats. Consider rubs like:
- Herbs – rosemary, thyme, sage
- Spices – garlic, onion, paprika, pepper
- Oil or melted butter
Season under skin if possible. Pour broth or wine in crock pot to further flavor.
Cook Times for Frozen Breast
- Low setting (200°F) for 1 to 1.5 hours per pound
- High setting (300°F) for 4-6 hours total time
Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temp reaches 165°F. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Wash and pat dry breast. Remove giblets if present.
- Apply desired seasonings or rub all over breast.
- Place seasoned breast in lightly greased crock pot.
- Add 1-2 cups broth, wine or water.
- Cook on low 8-10 hours or high 4-6 until 165°F.
- Remove breast and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving and Storing Leftovers
Carve breast across the grain for tender meat. Spoon any juices from crock over top.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 to 4 days. Enjoy on sandwiches, salads, in soups and casseroles.
Freeze sliced cooked turkey up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before using to maintain quality.
Handy Tips for Crock Pot Turkey Breast
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Layer breasts if cooking more than one.
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Add root vegetables under breast to cook in juices.
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Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for extra flavor.
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Use broth, wine or citrus juice for enhanced moisture and taste.
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Reserve juices to make gravy or freeze for another use.
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Use leftovers to quickly make dishes like turkey tetrazzini or turkey chili.
With this easy method, you’ll enjoy tender and flavorful boneless turkey breast using your handy crock pot any night of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size crock pot should I use?
A 5-7 quart crock pot fits most boneless turkey breasts. Size up for larger crocks over 7 quarts.
Can I cook a breast still in the original store wrap?
For food safety, unwrap fully and season breast before cooking. The plastic may also melt.
Do I need to add liquid to the crock pot?
Some liquid is recommended to prevent drying and help flavor the meat. Try broth, wine, juice or water.
Is it safe to eat turkey breast cooked from frozen?
Yes, cooking from frozen is safe as long as the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Be sure to discard if still pink.
How can I get the skin crispy in a crock pot?
Crispy skin is difficult in a crock pot. For crisper skin, broil for a few minutes after cooking.
How do I know if the breast is done cooking?
Use a food thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast for 165°F. Color is not a good doneness indicator.
