How To Cook Turkey In Slow Cooker On High [GUIDE]

Slow cooking has long been celebrated for its ability to transform ordinary cuts of meat into tender, flavorful masterpieces, and turkey is no exception. While roasting in an oven is the classic method for Thanksgiving or family dinners, using a slow cooker can provide a surprisingly convenient, stress-free alternative. The magic of a slow cooker lies in its ability to gently break down connective tissues while infusing the meat with moisture and flavor, producing a succulent bird that practically melts in your mouth. Cooking turkey on high in a slow cooker can be particularly appealing when time is limited yet a rich, home-cooked meal is still desired. However, success requires a careful understanding of timing, temperature, and preparation to avoid dry or unevenly cooked meat.

This guide explores every aspect of slow-cooked turkey on high, from ingredients to troubleshooting, ensuring that whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner, your turkey comes out perfectly every time.

Contents

• 1 How Long To Cook Turkey In Slow Cooker On High
• 2 How To Tell If It Is Done
• 3 Ingredients Needed
• 4 How To Cook Turkey In Slow Cooker On High
• 5 When Things Go Wrong
• 6 Expert Tips
• 7 Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?
• 8 Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker
• 9 FAQs
  • 9.1 What Size Turkey Should I Use For A Slow Cooker On High?
  • 9.2 How Long Does It Take To Cook A Turkey In A Slow Cooker On High?
  • 9.3 Should I Thaw The Turkey Before Using The Slow Cooker On High?
  • 9.4 Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Turkey In A Slow Cooker On High?
  • 9.5 Can I Cook A Whole Turkey On High In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.6 Should I Season The Turkey Before Cooking In A Slow Cooker On High?
  • 9.7 Can I Put Vegetables In The Slow Cooker With The Turkey?
  • 9.8 Do I Need To Cover The Slow Cooker While Cooking On High?
  • 9.9 How Do I Check If The Turkey Is Fully Cooked In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.10 Can I Brown The Turkey Before Cooking It In The Slow Cooker On High?

How Long To Cook Turkey In Slow Cooker On High

Cooking times for turkey in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size of the bird, whether it is whole or in parts, and even the model of your slow cooker. Generally, a whole turkey breast weighing 4 to 6 pounds will cook on high for approximately 3 to 4 hours. If you are cooking smaller portions like turkey legs or thighs, expect them to require around 2.5 to 3.5 hours on high.

It is important to note that slow cookers vary in the exact temperature of their ’high’ setting-some reach closer to 300°F, while others hover around 275°F. Therefore, the cooking time may need slight adjustments based on your appliance’s performance. For accuracy, always pair timing with temperature checks to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part of the meat.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining doneness is critical for both food safety and taste. The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast or thigh, avoiding bone, and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Other indicators can help supplement thermometer readings:

• Juices: When the turkey is pierced, the juices should run clear rather than pink.
• Texture: Fully cooked turkey will be tender and easy to pull apart with a fork, but not mushy.
• Appearance: The meat should no longer be translucent, and the color should be consistent throughout.

Avoid relying solely on timing or visual cues, as this can sometimes lead to undercooked or overcooked results.

Ingredients Needed

For a flavorful slow-cooked turkey, simplicity can be just as effective as complex seasoning. Basic ingredients include:

• Turkey: A whole turkey breast (4-6 lbs) or turkey parts such as thighs or drumsticks
• Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and celery for depth of flavor
• Liquid: Chicken or turkey broth to maintain moisture
• Herbs & Spices: Fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper
• Optional Extras: Carrots, apples, or lemon slices for added fragrance and subtle sweetness
• Olive Oil or Butter: For coating the turkey and enhancing browning

These ingredients work together to create a rich, savory broth while keeping the meat juicy and aromatic.

How To Cook Turkey In Slow Cooker On High

1. Preparation: Rinse the turkey and pat it dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs, ensuring the seasoning reaches under the skin if possible.
2. Layering: Place chopped onions, garlic, and celery at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a natural rack and infuses the turkey with flavor from the bottom up.
3. Liquid Addition: Pour 1-2 cups of broth over the vegetables, ensuring the base of the slow cooker remains moist.
4. Cooking: Place the turkey on top of the aromatics and cover with the lid. Set your slow cooker to high.
5. Monitoring: Cook for 3-4 hours for a whole breast, checking the internal temperature near the end of cooking. If using parts, check earlier to prevent overcooking.
6. Resting: Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, producing moist meat.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with careful preparation, things can go awry:

• Turkey is dry: This usually indicates overcooking. Reducing the cooking time slightly or adding extra broth next time can prevent dryness.
• Undercooked meat: May result from cooking too large a turkey or uneven slow cooker heating. Always check the internal temperature before serving.
• Soggy skin: Slow cookers do not brown meat effectively. If you want crispy skin, finish under a broiler for 5-10 minutes after slow cooking.

Expert Tips

• Use a trivet: Elevates the turkey above liquid, preventing it from stewing in its juices while still absorbing flavor.
• Don’t overfill: Leave space around the turkey to allow even heat circulation.
• Layer flavors: Herbs under the skin, in the cavity, and on top provide depth.
• Check midway: Especially for larger birds, ensure the liquid hasn’t evaporated completely.
• Foil tent for moisture: If the turkey appears dry on top, tent lightly with foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes, a slow-cooked style turkey can be approximated in an oven using a covered roasting pan or Dutch oven. Set the oven to 325°F and roast the turkey covered with foil or a lid, adding broth to the pan. Cooking times may vary: roughly 15-20 minutes per pound for a breast, and always monitor the internal temperature. The slow cooker primarily adds convenience and consistent low heat, but oven methods can replicate tenderness with careful attention.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Reheating turkey in a slow cooker preserves moisture better than a microwave. Place the turkey slices in the slow cooker with a splash of broth, cover, and heat on low for 1-2 hours until warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent drying, and avoid high heat, which can make the meat tough. This method also allows flavors to meld, creating even richer leftovers.

FAQs

What Size Turkey Should I Use For A Slow Cooker On High?

For a slow cooker, a turkey breast or small whole turkey between 4 to 6 pounds is ideal. Larger turkeys may not fit properly and can cook unevenly.

How Long Does It Take To Cook A Turkey In A Slow Cooker On High?

Cooking a turkey on high in a slow cooker typically takes 3 to 4 hours for a 4 to 6-pound bird. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Should I Thaw The Turkey Before Using The Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, the turkey should be fully thawed before cooking. Cooking a frozen turkey in a slow cooker is unsafe, as it can remain in the temperature danger zone for too long.

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Turkey In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, add about 1 cup of liquid, such as broth, water, or a mixture of wine and stock, to keep the turkey moist and prevent the slow cooker from overheating.

Can I Cook A Whole Turkey On High In A Slow Cooker?

It is usually recommended to cook turkey breasts or cut-up pieces rather than a whole turkey, as most slow cookers are too small for a large whole bird and may result in uneven cooking.

Should I Season The Turkey Before Cooking In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, season the turkey with herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. You can also add aromatics such as garlic, onion, or lemon to enhance flavor.

Can I Put Vegetables In The Slow Cooker With The Turkey?

Yes, root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions can be added. Place them at the bottom to ensure even cooking, as they take longer to cook than the turkey.

Do I Need To Cover The Slow Cooker While Cooking On High?

Yes, always cover the slow cooker with its lid to trap heat and moisture, which helps the turkey cook evenly and stay tender.

How Do I Check If The Turkey Is Fully Cooked In A Slow Cooker?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the turkey breast or thigh. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Can I Brown The Turkey Before Cooking It In The Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, browning the turkey in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker enhances flavor and improves appearance, but it is optional.