When it comes to slow-cooking rich, flavorful meats, the crockpot goose breast recipe is a true game-changer. Goose breast, often overlooked in everyday cooking, boasts a robust flavor and succulent texture that transforms beautifully when cooked low and slow.
Using a crockpot ensures the meat is tender, juicy, and infused with aromatic herbs and spices, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional holiday meals or simply looking to try something new, slow-cooked goose breast delivers an unparalleled taste experience. Plus, it frees up your oven and stove, letting you focus on preparing side dishes or relaxing while your meal cooks to perfection.
Read on for a detailed step-by-step guide to making the best crockpot goose breast, along with tips, variations, and serving ideas to elevate your dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crockpot goose breast recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy rich, savory meat without the fuss. The slow cooker allows the goose breast to cook evenly and retain its juicy texture, making it tender and flavorful with minimal hands-on time.
The recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of citrus to enhance the natural flavor of the goose. It’s a great alternative to more common poultry dishes like chicken or turkey, offering a deeper, gamier taste that’s perfect for the colder months.
Additionally, the crockpot frees you from constant monitoring, making it ideal for busy days or casual entertaining. You’ll love how this recipe fills your home with irresistible aromas while you go about your day.
Ingredients
- 2 goose breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total), skin on
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for citrusy aroma)
Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker (4-6 quart capacity recommended)
- Sharp knife for trimming and slicing
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet or frying pan for searing (optional but recommended)
- Tongs for flipping the goose breasts
- Serving platter and carving knife
Instructions
- Prepare the goose breasts: Remove the goose breasts from the packaging. Pat them dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat if desired, but leave enough fat to keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Season the meat: Generously season both sides of the goose breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a little orange zest if using. This will add a subtle citrus note to the dish.
- Sear the goose breasts: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the goose breasts skin side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes. This step adds flavor and texture but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Prepare the crockpot base: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs on top.
- Add the goose breasts: Place the seared goose breasts on top of the onion and garlic bed, skin side up.
- Pour liquids: Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) around the goose breasts, avoiding pouring directly on the skin to keep it crispy.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. The goose breast should be tender and cooked through but still juicy. Avoid overcooking to keep the texture perfect.
- Finish with balsamic vinegar: Fifteen minutes before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the goose breasts. This will add a tangy sweetness and enhance the flavor complexity.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the goose breasts from the crockpot and let them rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
- Slice and enjoy: Slice the goose breast against the grain and serve alongside your favorite sides.
Tips & Variations
“For a richer flavor, marinate the goose breasts overnight in a mixture of orange juice, garlic, and herbs before cooking.”
- Searing the goose breast: Though optional, searing adds a wonderful texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can skip this step and go straight into the crockpot.
- Herbs and spices: Feel free to experiment with sage, bay leaves, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, festive touch.
- Liquids: Substitute white wine with apple cider or extra broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Vegetable additions: Add root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or potatoes to the crockpot for a one-pot meal.
- Glaze option: For a glossy finish, brush the goose breasts with a honey-mustard glaze in the final 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 6 oz cooked) |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 32 g |
Total Fat | 25 g |
Saturated Fat | 7 g |
Cholesterol | 110 mg |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Carbohydrates | 2 g |
Fiber | 0 g |
Sugars | 0.5 g |
Serving Suggestions
This crockpot goose breast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavor. Consider serving it with roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a vibrant cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can lighten the meal and add freshness.
For bread lovers, warm crusty rolls or garlic buttered baguette slices make excellent accompaniments. To round out the meal, a glass of dry white wine or a fruity red like Pinot Noir enhances the earthy flavors of the goose.
Looking for more delicious slow cooker recipes? Check out these favorites:
- Slow Cooker Roast Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy
- Best Vegan Slowcooker Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals
- All Day Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Comfort Meals
Conclusion
The crockpot goose breast recipe is a fantastic way to bring something special to your dinner table with minimal effort. Slow cooking this richly flavored poultry cut allows the meat to become tender and juicy while soaking up wonderful herbal and aromatic notes.
This method not only enhances the taste but also frees you up to focus on other tasks or relax while your meal cooks.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, even novice cooks can achieve impressive results. The versatility of this recipe means you can tailor it with your favorite herbs, spices, and side dishes to make it your own.
For a truly memorable meal that feels both comforting and gourmet, give this crockpot goose breast recipe a try. Your family and guests will thank you for it!
📖 Recipe Card: Crockpot Goose Breast Recipe
Description: Tender and flavorful goose breast slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. This easy recipe yields juicy meat with aromatic herbs and a rich sauce.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT4H
Total Time: PT4H15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 goose breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Pat goose breasts dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear goose breasts until browned, about 3 minutes per side.
- Place sliced onion and garlic in the crockpot.
- Add seared goose breasts on top of the onion and garlic.
- Pour chicken broth and red wine over the meat.
- Add thyme and rosemary sprigs to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- Remove goose breasts and rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Optional: Stir balsamic vinegar and honey into crockpot juices and simmer to thicken for sauce.
- Serve sliced goose breast with the sauce.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 | Protein: 35g | Fat: 20g | Carbs: 3g
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