Perfectly cooked turkey doesn’t require hours in a conventional oven anymore! This air fryer turkey recipe delivers incredibly juicy meat and crispy skin in just 45 minutes from start to finish. With a mere 378 calories per serving and packed with 73g of protein, it’s a game-changing way to enjoy this holiday favorite any time of year. The air fryer’s magic touch ensures that delectable golden-brown exterior while keeping all the succulent flavors locked inside.
Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Turkey
- Turkey Breast: 3 lb, thawed and patted dry for best results
- Oil: 1 tablespoon, helps create golden-brown skin
- Poultry Seasoning: 2 teaspoons, adds classic turkey flavor
- Garlic Salt: 1 teaspoon, perfect for savory depth
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon, creates beautiful color and mild flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Turkey: Generously massage oil all over the turkey breast to ensure even cooking
- Season: Mix all seasonings and sprinkle evenly on all sides for maximum flavor
- Position: Place turkey breast in air fryer basket, ensuring proper air circulation
- Initial Cooking: Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for first 20 minutes
- Flip & Continue: Turn the breast over and cook for additional 20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Rest & Serve: Let turkey rest for 10 minutes to retain juices before slicing
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Your air fryer turkey will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For the best flavor and texture, let the turkey cool completely before storing. When you’re ready to eat, warm it gently in your air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F – this keeps the meat nice and juicy!
Serving Suggestions
This juicy turkey breast is perfect for a small holiday dinner or a special weekend meal! Serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, or slice it thin for the most amazing sandwiches. Want to make it extra special? Whip up a quick gravy using the drippings from the air fryer basket mixed with some chicken broth and a bit of flour.
Recipe Tips
Let me share a few friendly tips to help you make the best air fryer turkey! Pat the turkey breast dry before adding oil – this helps the seasonings stick better. If your turkey breast is bigger or smaller than 3 pounds, add or subtract about 7 minutes per pound. The most reliable way to check if it’s done is with a meat thermometer – just pop it into the thickest part of the breast. Remember, that 10-minute rest at the end isn’t just for show – it helps keep all those tasty juices inside the meat!
Variations
Want to mix things up? Try swapping the seasoning blend! Use Italian herbs and garlic for a Mediterranean twist, or add some smoked paprika and cayenne for a spicy kick. You can also brush the turkey with melted butter instead of oil for extra richness. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage tucked under the skin are amazing too!
Air Fryer Turkey Recipe
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lb turkey breast
- 1 tbsp oil
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Rub oil onto turkey breast.
- Combine seasonings and sprinkle on all sides of turkey.
- Place turkey breast in air fryer basket.
- Cook at 360°F or 182°C for 20 minutes. Flip breast and cook another 20 minutes. Turkey should be 165°F.
- Rest turkey for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
