There's no specific reason why you should not let a turkey touch the lid of a Crock-Pot when cooking a turkey breast. In fact, it's perfectly fine and common to place the turkey directly inside the Crock-Pot while cooking. However, there might be a few reasons why some people prefer not to let the turkey touch the lid:
Condensation: When cooking meat in a slow cooker, condensation forms on the inside of the lid due to the trapped steam. If the turkey comes in direct contact with the lid, the condensation might drip onto the meat, potentially diluting the flavors or affecting the texture.
Browning and Crust Formation: Some cooks prefer their turkey to have a crispy exterior or a well-browned surface. Placing the turkey directly against the lid could interfere with the browning process as it may create a barrier between the turkey and the hot air in the slow cooker.
To mitigate these concerns, you can place the turkey on a bed of vegetables or a cooking rack inside the Crock-Pot, which elevates the turkey slightly from the bottom. This can help improve air circulation and prevent the meat from touching the condensation or the lid directly.
However, it's essential to remember that cooking a turkey breast in a Crock-Pot is generally safe and can yield delicious results. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommended cooking times to ensure the turkey is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.