Oh, the quest for the perfect turkey breast! I’ve tried countless methods, each promising that elusive juiciness. But when I stumbled upon this air fryer recipe, it was like discovering the holy grail of turkey cooking.
You know, it’s like when you finally find the perfect pair of jeans that fit just right. This one, with its crispy skin and tender meat, is a revelation—seriously, who knew an air fryer could work such magic?
Steps
- Rub half a tablespoon of olive oil over the entire turkey breast, ensuring even coverage. Season both sides with kosher salt and dry turkey or poultry seasoning, then apply the remaining oil to the skin side.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey breast skin side down into the fryer basket and cook for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, flip the turkey breast over and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), which will take approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the breast size.
- Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist result.
Ingredients
- 4-pound turkey breast, bone-in with skin (ribs removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 tablespoon dry turkey or poultry seasoning (without salt)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2260 kcal | Protein: 325 g | Fat: 100 g | Saturated Fat: 25 g | Cholesterol: 840 mg | Sodium: 2960 mg
FAQ
- Can you cook a turkey breast in an air fryer?
- Yes, you can cook a turkey breast in an air fryer. It’s a quick and easy method that yields a moist and juicy turkey with a beautifully browned skin. A 4 to 5 pound turkey breast typically fits well in a 5-quart or larger air fryer.
- How do you ensure the turkey breast is cooked perfectly in an air fryer?
- To ensure the turkey breast is cooked perfectly, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Cooking times will vary depending on the size of the breast, so this step is crucial for accuracy.
- What is the best way to thaw a frozen turkey breast for air frying?
- If your turkey breast is frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and optimal texture.
- How should you carve a turkey breast after cooking it in an air fryer?
- After cooking, let the turkey breast rest on a carving board for at least 15 minutes, covered loosely with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute. Use a sharp knife to cut along the breastbone and ribs, and then slice the meat away from the bone.
- What are some side dishes that pair well with air fryer turkey breast?
- Air fryer turkey breast pairs well with homemade stuffing, baked sweet potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a complete turkey dinner experience.
Tips
- Ensure your turkey breast fits your air fryer by selecting a 4 to 5-pound size for a 5-quart or larger model, and make sure the height of the meat is below the top of the basket before starting.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to accurately measure the internal temperature and ensure the turkey is properly cooked, adjusting the cooking time based on the size of the breast.
- If the turkey breast is frozen, plan ahead and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
- After cooking, let the turkey breast rest under loosely tented foil for at least 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before carving.
Equipment
- Air Fryer: A 5-quart or larger air fryer is recommended for cooking a 4 to 5-pound turkey breast.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Useful for checking the internal temperature of the turkey breast to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
