Slow Cooker Orange Bourbon Turkey Breast

Fresh-squeezed orange juice and bourbon create a bright, caramelized glaze for this ultra-easy crock pot turkey breast — perfect for Thanksgiving or a simple weeknight dinner any time of year.

Two easy strategies to simplify turkey dinner:

1. Cook a turkey breast instead of roasting a whole bird.
2. Use a slow cooker so the bird cooks gently while you get on with the rest of your day.

This Orange Bourbon Crock Pot Turkey Breast is one of the simplest turkey recipes you can make. A spice rub layers savory-floral notes over the meat, while a honeyed orange and bourbon glaze keeps the breast moist and adds a touch of sweetness. It’s excellent for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, but simple enough for any dinner where you want big flavor with very little fuss.

Crock pots free up oven space and allow you to “set it and forget it,” which is especially helpful when you’re juggling multiple dishes for a holiday meal.

How do I cook a turkey breast in the crock pot?

Begin by whisking together the dry spices: paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, brown sugar, cayenne, ground cumin and ground cloves. Pat the turkey breast dry, rub the spice mixture all over the surface, and place the breast in the slow cooker.

In a separate bowl, combine bourbon, fresh-squeezed orange juice, orange zest and honey. Pour this sweet-tangy mixture over the seasoned turkey in the crock pot.

Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours. The long, gentle heat keeps the meat tender and allows the glaze to concentrate.

When the turkey is done, transfer it to a cutting board and slice against the grain. Spoon the cooking liquid into a small saucepan and simmer briefly to thicken if you prefer a thicker glaze, or serve it as a flavorful au jus alongside the sliced turkey.

Do I use a bone-in or boneless turkey breast?

Boneless turkey breast is recommended here since it reliably fits in most slow cookers and is easier to slice evenly after cooking. If you have a bone-in breast and it fits comfortably in your slow cooker, you can use it — the cooking time is similar, though bone-in pieces can take a touch longer. Check for doneness before serving.

Do I leave the skin on the turkey breast or remove it?

This comes down to personal preference. The recipe works well with the skin left on or removed. If you prefer skinless turkey, remove the skin before rubbing on the spices. If you enjoy the flavor and texture of crispy skin, remove the cooked turkey from the slow cooker and place it under the oven broiler for 2–3 minutes on low to crisp the skin; watch closely so the meat doesn’t dry out.

Can you cook a turkey breast from frozen in the crock pot?

Yes. If the turkey breast is frozen, plan for extra time — about one additional hour on low (approximately 7–9 hours total), depending on the thickness. Make sure the slow cooker reaches a sustained hot temperature so the meat cooks evenly.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes. Brown the spice-rubbed turkey briefly on the sauté setting if you like, then add the orange-bourbon mixture. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure (poultry setting or manual) for about 30 minutes, followed by a 15–20 minute natural pressure release. Finish by slicing and serving with the sauce.

How many people does a turkey breast serve?

A 3–4 lb boneless turkey breast will generally serve about 6 people. If you’re feeding more guests, prepare multiple turkey breasts or supplement with hearty side dishes. For large gatherings, many cooks prepare two or three breasts to ensure ample meat for everyone.

Tips, variations and serving suggestions

To deepen flavor, let the rubbed turkey rest in the refrigerator for an hour or overnight before cooking. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute chicken or turkey stock mixed with a splash of apple cider or additional orange juice for the bourbon.

Serve the sliced turkey with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The orange-bourbon glaze pairs especially well with side dishes that have autumnal flavors — think sweet potatoes, cranberry-based sides, or roasted root vegetables.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or covered skillet with a splash of stock or reserved glaze to keep the meat moist. Leftover turkey also makes excellent sandwiches, salads, or a quick stir-fry.

When you make this dish, consider sharing a photo on social media and tagging @WhitneyBond or using the hashtag #WBRecipes.

Orange Bourbon Crock Pot Turkey Breast

Summary: Orange juice and bourbon combine with a warm spice rub and honey to create a glossy glaze for a tender slow-cooked turkey breast. Easy to prepare and ideal for holidays or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 3–4 lb boneless turkey breast
• 1/2 cup bourbon (or substitute stock + apple cider for alcohol-free)
• 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1/2 cup honey

Instructions

1. Combine the paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, brown sugar, cayenne, cumin and ground cloves in a small bowl.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast and place it in the crock pot.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the bourbon, orange juice, orange zest and honey.
4. Pour the orange-bourbon mixture over the turkey. Cover and slow cook on low for 6–8 hours, until the meat is tender and cooked through.
5. Transfer the turkey to a cutting board and slice. If desired, simmer the cooking juices briefly to thicken them, then spoon the sauce over the slices or serve it on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Other turkey breast recipe ideas to try: Bacon Wrapped Turkey Breast, Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Breast, Sous Vide Turkey Breast, Maple Apple Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, and Roasted Turkey Breast with Blue Cheese Mushroom Gravy.