Crock Pot Wild Turkey Breast

This Crock Pot Wild Turkey Breast is a tender and herb-infused recipe, which uses wild turkey breast and fresh apples. It’s a no-fuss take on a gourmet-style meal, ready in about 6 hours and 15 minutes.

Crock Pot Wild Turkey Breast Ingredients

• 1 whole wild turkey breast (about 3 pounds)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2 Honeycrisp apples (or similar), sliced
• 1 garlic bulb, peeled and cloves cracked
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2–3 sprigs fresh sage
• 2–3 sprigs fresh oregano
• ½ cup white wine
• 1 to 1½ cups chicken stock (enough to partially cover meat)
• Olive oil, for searing after slow cooking (optional)

How To Make Crock Pot Wild Turkey Breast

1. Season the turkey: Lightly dust the wild turkey breast with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper on all sides.
2. Layer in the crock pot: Place sliced apples, cracked garlic cloves, and fresh herbs in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Lay the seasoned turkey breast on top.
3. Add liquids: Pour in the white wine and enough chicken stock to come about halfway up the sides of the turkey.
4. Slow cook the turkey: Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Optional sear for crispness: If desired, pat the cooked turkey breast dry, brush lightly with olive oil, and sear each side in a hot skillet or grill (600°F) for 1 minute per side for added texture and color.
6. Rest and serve: Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with pan juices or a simple gravy.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use store-bought turkey breast?
  Yes, but wild turkey is leaner, so adjust cook time if using a fattier commercial cut.
• How to make it without wine:
  Simply replace the white wine with more chicken stock or unsweetened apple juice.
• Best way to sear after crock pot:
  Use a cast iron skillet over high heat or an outdoor grill for a quick sear.
• How to add more flavor:
  Marinate the turkey overnight with the garlic, herbs, and wine in a zip-top bag before slow cooking.
• Can I thicken the juices for gravy?
  Yes, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch into 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the slow cooker juices at the end.

What To Serve With Wild Turkey Breast

This rustic turkey dish pairs well with hearty, seasonal sides:

• Roasted root vegetables
• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Wild rice pilaf
• Sautéed green beans
• Apple-cranberry chutney

How To Store Wild Turkey Breast

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Wild Turkey Breast Nutrition Facts (Estimate per serving)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~40g
• Fat: ~12g
• Carbs: ~10g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen wild turkey breast in the crock pot?
No, thaw completely before slow cooking to ensure food safety.

Do I need to sear the turkey after slow cooking?
It’s optional but recommended for added texture and a more appetizing appearance.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it slices well and stores great for sandwiches, salads, or bowls.

How do I prevent dry turkey breast?
Don’t overcook, and make sure there’s enough liquid in the crock pot to keep the turkey moist.

Can I make this in advance?
Yes, it reheats well. Store the turkey and juices separately to prevent sogginess.

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot Whole Turkey Breast
• Crock Pot Whole Turkey
• Crock Pot White Turkey Chili