Crockpot Duck Breast Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 duck breasts , skin-on (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for umami depth)
• 1 tablespoon honey (balances savoriness with subtle sweetness)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (for a touch of tang)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (to help marinade penetrate)
• 1 medium onion , thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 2 stalks celery , chopped
• 1 medium carrot , diced
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for moist cooking environment)
• 1/4 cup red wine or apple cider (optional for deglazing and complexity)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (to brighten the sauce)