Description
This Air Fryer Turkey Breast recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare a juicy, flavorful turkey breast with a crispy skin. Perfect for smaller gatherings or when you want a delicious turkey without the long roast time, this recipe uses a herbed garlic butter mixture and air frying technique to deliver tender, moist meat with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Breast
- 1 bone-in turkey breast
Herb Butter Mixture
- 8 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Breast: Pat the turkey breast dry using paper towels to remove any moisture. Then sprinkle salt and pepper over the butter to ready it for seasoning.
- Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the room temperature butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful butter mixture.
- Apply Butter Under and Over Skin: Carefully loosen the turkey skin using an upside-down spoon if necessary. Using your hands, spread some of the butter mixture under the skin directly onto the turkey flesh, then coat the top of the breast with the remaining butter. Sprinkle a little extra salt and pepper on top for enhanced flavor.
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the turkey after cooking.
- Initial Air Frying: Place the turkey breast in the basket skin side down. Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F and cook for 20 minutes to start rendering the skin and cooking the meat.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Flip the turkey breast to skin side up and air fry for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. Begin checking the internal temperature about 15 minutes into this stage.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F. Note that poultry is considered safe at 165°F, but temperature will rise slightly as the meat rests. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
- Rest the Turkey: Remove the turkey from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board. Cover with foil and allow it to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender turkey breast.
Notes
- Make sure your turkey breast is fully thawed before air frying to ensure even cooking.
- Check the size of your air fryer basket before purchasing the turkey breast to ensure it fits comfortably.
- Cooking time will depend on the size of the turkey breast—monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
- Allow the turkey breast to rest before slicing to maintain juiciness.
- To store leftovers: refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- To freeze leftovers: place in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags and store up to 6 months.
- To reheat: use a microwave, covering the turkey with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
