The Ultimate Slow Cooker Turkey Curry: An Effortless & Flavorful Recipe

While the calendar might say July, signaling barbecues and light summer fare, there’s always a place in our hearts (and on our dinner tables) for a comforting and incredibly simple meal. This Slow Cooker Turkey Curry recipe is a personal favorite, offering a delightful twist on typical slow cooker staples like chicken or hamburger dishes. It’s an unexpectedly delicious way to enjoy turkey, transforming it into a rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying meal that requires minimal hands-on effort. Forget stressing over a hot stove; this recipe promises a hearty, flavorful curry that practically makes itself, leaving you more time to savor the moment.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Curry

There’s nothing inherently wrong with classic chicken or beef slow cooker recipes – they’re beloved for a reason! But sometimes, it’s fun to introduce a new flavor profile and switch things up. This Slow Cooker Turkey Curry recipe does just that, bringing a burst of exotic flavor to your weeknight routine. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience waiting to unfold with minimal fuss. We believe this dish achieves “curry perfection” – a rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced blend that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

If you’re constantly seeking innovative and delicious dinner ideas for your slow cooker, you’ve come to the right place. Beyond this delightful turkey curry, we’ve explored many other slow cooker wonders. For example, our Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli is an absolute hit, delivering takeout flavors right at home. And who could resist the comforting layers of our Slow Cooker Lasagna? These recipes, much like our turkey curry, epitomize the ease and magic of slow cooking.

Frankly, it’s hard to find a slow cooker recipe I don’t adore. The sheer convenience of tossing ingredients into a pot, setting it, and returning hours later to a perfectly cooked meal is a game-changer. It means less time spent slaving over a hot oven or stirring pots on the stovetop, especially during busy weekdays or when you’d rather be relaxing. If you appreciate the simplicity and deliciousness of this turkey curry, you might also enjoy our popular Crock Pot Tater Tot Casserole – another fantastic, family-friendly slow cooker creation.

Essential Ingredients for Your Turkey Curry

Crafting this epic Slow Cooker Turkey Curry requires a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward components, which combine to create an unexpectedly complex and satisfying flavor. Below is a quick overview; the detailed measurements and step-by-step instructions are provided in the comprehensive recipe card at the end of this post.

Ingredient Spotlight:

• Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: This forms the creamy, rich base of our curry, adding a savory depth and velvety texture that perfectly coats the turkey. It’s one of the secrets to the dish’s incredibly smooth consistency and quick preparation. You can find out more about similar cream of chicken soup recipes for other culinary adventures.
• Water: Used to thin the condensed soup slightly, creating the perfect sauce consistency for slow cooking.
• Curry Powder: The heart of the curry! This spice blend brings warmth, aroma, and that characteristic curry flavor. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A simple seasoning that enhances all the other flavors, adding a subtle kick.
• Turkey Breast Cutlets: Lean, tender, and an excellent canvas for the curry flavors. Cutlets cook beautifully in the slow cooker, remaining moist and flavorful. You can also use leftover cooked turkey from holidays.
• Heavy Cream: Stirred in at the end, heavy cream adds an extra layer of richness and luxuriousness, making the sauce incredibly creamy and indulgent.
• Seedless Red Grapes: An unexpected but brilliant addition! The grapes add a burst of sweet-tart flavor and a delightful texture that cuts through the richness of the curry, elevating the dish from good to extraordinary. Make sure they are seedless and halved for the best experience.

Equipment Needed for Success

One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it relies on minimal kitchen equipment, making cleanup a breeze and the cooking process even more relaxing.

• Slow Cooker (Crockpot): We highly recommend using a slow cooker with a digital timer. This feature allows you to set the cooking duration and automatically switches to a “warm” setting once the time is up. This ensures your turkey curry cooks perfectly without overcooking and gives you peace of mind, knowing dinner will be ready when you are. A 4-quart or larger slow cooker works perfectly for this recipe.
• Kitchen Spoon/Stirring Utensil: Essential for combining ingredients and ensuring everything is well coated.

Step-by-Step: Making Your Crock Pot Turkey Curry

Whipping up this delectable Slow Cooker Turkey Curry is incredibly straightforward. While complete, detailed instructions are provided in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this page, here’s a quick, easy-to-follow version to guide you through the process:

1. Prepare the Base: In your 4-quart slow cooker, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, water, curry powder, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until they are well blended and form a smooth, fragrant sauce. This mixture will be the flavorful foundation for your turkey.
2. Add the Turkey: Carefully add the turkey breast cutlets to the slow cooker. Turn the turkey pieces gently to ensure they are fully coated with the curry sauce mixture. This step is crucial for infusing the turkey with flavor as it cooks.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook the turkey curry on the LOW setting for 6 to 7 hours, or until the turkey is thoroughly cooked through and fork-tender. The exact cooking time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker, so always ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. The Final Creamy Touch: Once the turkey is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and the halved seedless red grapes into the slow cooker. Allow it to heat through for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the grapes are slightly softened and the sauce is perfectly creamy. The cream adds richness, while the grapes provide a delightful burst of sweetness and acidity that brightens the entire dish.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your luscious turkey and sauce generously over a bed of hot cooked rice or a seasoned rice blend. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and prepare to enjoy a truly remarkable slow cooker meal!

Preparation and Storage Guidance

One of the many reasons to love slow cooker recipes is their fantastic suitability for meal planning and effortless storage. This turkey curry is no exception, making it perfect for busy individuals or families.

Make Ahead:

This slow cooker Turkey Curry has a cooking time of six to seven hours on the low setting. This generous cooking window gives you ample time to focus on other tasks, prepare accompanying dishes, or simply relax and unwind before dinner. You can assemble the initial ingredients in the morning and have a delicious, hot meal ready by evening.

Storage:

Should you have any delightful leftovers (a rare occurrence with this recipe!), refrigerate them promptly in an airtight container. They will remain fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making them perfect for quick lunches or another easy dinner.

Freezing/How to Freeze:

For longer storage, this turkey curry freezes wonderfully. Transfer any cooled leftover turkey curry into an airtight, freezer-safe container. Ensure there is minimal air exposure to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, your frozen turkey curry can be enjoyed within three months. This is an excellent option for batch cooking or saving portions for future meals.

How to Reheat:

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen or refrigerated turkey curry, gentle reheating is key to maintaining its texture and flavor. For refrigerated portions, simply reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until thoroughly warm. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Allrecipes offers a comprehensive guide on the best methods for reheating turkey, which can be helpful for ensuring your curry is just as delicious the second time around.

Recipe Variations & Dietary Adaptations

This Slow Cooker Turkey Curry recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous modifications to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen!

Substitutions for Flavor:

• Creamy Base Alternatives: While cream of chicken soup provides a unique depth, you can certainly experiment with other condensed cream soups. Cream of mushroom soup, for instance, would offer an earthy, savory note that complements the turkey beautifully, especially if you enjoy mushrooms. Cream of celery or even cream of potato could also work, offering slightly different flavor profiles.
• Add Fresh Aromatics: Elevate the flavor by adding sautéed diced onions and minced garlic at the beginning of the cooking process.
• Spice Exploration: To further customize the curry flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground coriander, cumin, ginger, or even a touch of Garam Masala along with the curry powder. For a vibrant color and mild flavor, a dash of turmeric is an excellent addition.
• Vegetable Boost: This curry is fantastic for incorporating more vegetables. Stir in diced carrots, bell peppers (any color), or frozen peas during the last hour of cooking. Spinach or kale can be wilted into the curry just before serving for an extra nutritional punch.
• Herbal Freshness: Fresh cilantro, chopped and stirred in right before serving, adds a bright, aromatic finish that complements the curry flavors beautifully.

Dietary Adaptations:

• Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe suitable for vegetarians, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup (ensure it’s vegetarian-friendly). Replace the turkey breast cutlets with hearty meatless alternatives such as chickpeas, lentils, or a medley of robust vegetables like cauliflower florets and sweet potatoes.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, follow the vegetarian guidance, ensuring all condensed soups are plant-based. Additionally, replace the heavy whipping cream with a plant-based alternative like full-fat coconut milk or a vegan heavy cream substitute. Coconut milk will also add an authentic, subtly sweet, and creamy tropical note to the curry.
• Gluten-Free: If you’re adhering to a gluten-free diet, the primary concern will be the condensed cream of chicken soup, as many brands contain gluten. Opt for a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup alternative. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure all components are gluten-free.
• Alcohol-Free: This recipe is naturally alcohol-free. However, some traditional curry recipes or variations might include a splash of white wine or Marsala wine for added depth of flavor. If you enjoy such additions, ensure they align with your dietary preferences.

Adjusting Serving Size & Spice:

• Smaller or Larger Servings: The written recipe yields six servings, making it perfect for a family meal or for meal prepping a few days’ worth of lunches. It scales readily to your desired yield. If you need to scale it up for a larger gathering, you may need to cook in batches or use a larger capacity slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
• Make It Spicy: For those who love a bit of heat, adding chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to taste will transform this into a spicy Turkey Curry. Freshly sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers can also be added for a vibrant kick.
• Sugar-Free: The original recipe is naturally low in sugar, containing only 2 grams per serving, with no single ingredient contributing a significant amount. If you are strictly monitoring sugar intake, this recipe is a great choice as is.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Turkey Curry

• Serve Smartly: While rice is a classic accompaniment, don’t limit yourself! This Turkey Curry is fantastic served over hot cooked rice, a seasoned rice blend, quinoa, couscous, or even with warm naan bread for scooping up all that delicious sauce.
• Even Turkey Pieces: Cut your turkey breast cutlets into uniform pieces (about 1-inch cubes) to ensure they cook evenly and are tender throughout.
• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, always taste the curry and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more curry powder, salt, or pepper to suit your personal preference.
• Don’t Overcook Grapes: Add the grapes towards the end of the cooking process. This ensures they soften slightly but retain some of their fresh texture and vibrant flavor without becoming mushy.
• Optional Browning: For an extra layer of flavor, consider quickly browning the turkey pieces in a skillet with a little oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds a wonderful depth, though it’s entirely optional for those seeking maximum convenience.

What to Serve with Crock Pot Turkey Curry

This slow cooker recipe is an incredibly flavorful and satisfying way to transform leftover holiday turkey (or fresh turkey breast) into a filling and exciting lunch or dinner. It’s truly a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some menu planning suggestions, including delightful options that complement holiday leftovers and everyday meals:

Hearty Sides:

• Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup
• Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup
• Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
• Cranberry Fluff Salad
• Cranberry Salsa
• Cranberry Orange Relish
• Freshly steamed Basmati or Jasmine rice
• Warm naan bread or pita bread
• Quinoa or couscous for a grain alternative
• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette

Complementary Main Dishes (especially with holiday leftovers):

• Turkey Cranberry Sliders
• Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
• Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
• Funeral Sandwiches (also known as Ham and Cheese Sliders)
• Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
• Crock Pot Ham Macaroni and Cheese
• Crock Pot Ham and Cheese Grits
• Crock Pot Turkey Chili

When to Enjoy This Comforting Dish

This Slow Cooker Turkey Curry is so versatile and delicious that it fits perfectly into almost any meal plan or occasion:

• Lunch: Excellent for meal prep, providing a warm and satisfying midday meal.
• Dinner: An ideal weeknight solution for busy families, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
• Thanksgiving & Holidays: A creative and delicious way to use up leftover turkey from festive feasts.
• Christmas: Perfect for a cozy Christmas Eve dinner or a post-Christmas meal using holiday leftovers.
• Anytime You Crave Comfort: When you need a warm, flavorful, and effortless meal, this curry delivers.

Explore More Delicious Recipe Collections

If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and flavor of this turkey curry, we have many more recipes that you’re sure to love! Dive into our curated collections for endless culinary inspiration:

• Leftover Ham Recipes: Creative ideas to repurpose ham into new and exciting dishes.
• 30+ CrockPot Recipes for a Memorable Thanksgiving: Make your holiday cooking stress-free with these slow cooker gems.
• 35+ Quick and Tasty Comfort Food Recipes for Cozy Nights!: Find your next favorite comforting meal for those chilly evenings.
• 20+ Delicious Thanksgiving Cocktails to Wow Your Guests: Perfect drink pairings for your festive gatherings.
• Warm Up by the Fire with These 30+ Winter Cocktails: Sip on something special as the temperatures drop.

Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to explore our dedicated categories for copycat recipes, irresistible dessert recipes, and an extensive collection of Crock Pot Recipes that will simplify your life!

Stay connected and never miss a delicious update! Follow Tammilee Tips on MSN, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for all our latest recipe posts and culinary adventures.

Slow Cooker Crock Pot Turkey Curry Recipe

Use the slow cooker crock pot to make this easy turkey curry recipe.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 7 hours

Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 253 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 2 (10 ¾ Ounce) Cream of Chicken Soup
• 2 tablespoons Water
• 1 tablespoon Curry Powder
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
• 2 pounds turkey breast cutlets
• ¼ cup Heavy Whipping Cream
• ½ cup seedless red grapes, cut in half
• Hot cooked rice or seasoned rice blend, for serving

Instructions

1. Stir the condensed cream of chicken soup, water, curry powder, and black pepper together in a 4-quart slow cooker until well combined. Add the turkey breast cutlets and turn them to coat completely with the sauce.
2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 7 hours, or until the turkey is fully cooked through and tender.
3. About 10-15 minutes before serving, stir the heavy cream and the halved red grapes into the slow cooker. Allow to heat through gently. Serve the turkey and sauce immediately over hot cooked rice.

Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts

Slow Cooker Crock Pot Turkey Curry Recipe

Amount Per Serving

Calories 253 Calories from Fat 81

% Daily Value*

Fat 9g 14%

Saturated Fat 3g 19%

Cholesterol 100mg 33%

Sodium 739mg 32%

Potassium 442mg 13%

Carbohydrates 7g 2%

Sugar 2g 2%

Protein 34g 68%

Vitamin A 295IU 6%

Vitamin C 0.4mg 0%

Calcium 41mg 4%

Iron 1.8mg 10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Love this recipe? Follow @TammileeTIps on Pinterest

Tried this recipe? Mention @TammileeTipsLife when you share a photo!

Recipe originally shared on July 31, 2017. Updated January 2021.