Crockpot Brown Sugar Dijon Turkey Breast for Easy Weeknight Dinners Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can remove the turkey once it is cooked and whisk the remaining pan juices with a small amount of cornstarch slurry over medium heat on the stovetop. This will create a rich, velvety sauce that can be poured over the sliced turkey before serving, adding an extra layer of flavor and appeal to the final presentation.

Consider the size and shape of your turkey breast when choosing your slow cooker. A smaller, more oval-shaped slow cooker often works better for a single turkey breast, as it keeps the ingredients closer together and helps the liquid maintain consistent contact with the meat.

If your slow cooker is very large, the liquid may spread too thin, potentially leading to faster evaporation.

Variations

• Spicy Brown Sugar Turkey: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture before cooking for a subtle heat that cuts through the sweetness of the sugar.
• Herb-Infused Turkey: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary into the seasoning blend to add an earthy, aromatic dimension that pairs perfectly with the garlic and turkey.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Freeze the cooked turkey in a sealed freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of broth until warmed through.

Store any leftover turkey in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.

It is best to keep the turkey in its own juices to ensure it does not dry out during the storage period. Proper cooling is essential; ensure the leftovers are moved to the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator for a day. You can cook the turkey completely, allow it to cool, and then store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, simply slice the turkey and reheat it gently with a splash of extra broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

Serving ideas

Serve the turkey slices on a warmed platter to maintain the temperature of the meat. Drizzle a generous amount of the reduced pan juices over the slices right before bringing them to the table.

This adds both flavor and a beautiful, glossy finish that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. Pair the turkey with simple sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

For a more casual presentation, you can shred the turkey directly in the slow cooker after it has rested and mix it thoroughly with the remaining juices.

This creates a versatile, pulled-style turkey that works well in sandwiches or served over rice. This approach is perfect for larger gatherings where you want a more relaxed and flexible serving option for your guests.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Brown Sugar Dijon Turkey Breast for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 10 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb turkey breast
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the turkey breast into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure it is positioned flat to allow for even cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the dark brown sugar evenly over the top of the turkey. Sprinkle the garlic powder over the sugar, then carefully pour the chicken broth around the sides of the turkey, avoiding washing away the seasoning.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the turkey, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing, and serve with the pan juices drizzled over the top.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

18 g

Fat

5.5 g

Fiber

0 g

Sugar

17 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.