Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe
This Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Turkey Breast is a flavorful and tender dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion. The turkey is marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of pure maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and spices, then slow-cooked to juicy perfection. A quick broil at the end gives it a caramelized glaze with a hint of crispiness. Serve garnished with fresh thyme and green onions for a delicious and aromatic meal.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 7-9 hours
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Turkey and Marinade
- 3–4 lbs boneless turkey breast
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a hint of heat)
Garnish
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Sliced green onions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Prep the Turkey: Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better.
- Marinate the Turkey: Place the turkey breast in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the maple glaze marinade over the turkey, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight to enhance the flavor.
- Set up the Slow Cooker: Spray the interior of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or line it with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
- Add the Turkey to the Slow Cooker: Remove the turkey from the marinade and place it in the slow cooker. Pour the remaining marinade over the top.
- Cook the Turkey: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the turkey is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze Finish (Optional): If you prefer a slightly caramelized finish, preheat your oven broiler. Once the turkey is cooked, carefully transfer it to a baking dish, brush with additional maple syrup, and broil for 5-7 minutes until the skin is slightly crispy and glazed.
- Rest and Slice: Allow the turkey breast to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist outcome.
- Serve: Slice the turkey breast and drizzle with extra glaze from the slow cooker. Garnish with fresh thyme and sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your meal! Pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a delightful feast.
Notes
- Marinate the turkey overnight for the best flavor.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
- The broiling step is optional but adds a nice caramelized crust.
- Ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Let the turkey rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, maple glazed turkey, easy turkey recipe, slow cooker dinner, maple syrup turkey, boneless turkey breast