Combining Turkey Breasts: Double Frying Possible?

Turkey is a staple at Thanksgiving and for many, it's the star of the show. But cooking a whole turkey can be a hassle, especially if you're only feeding a small crowd. That's where the air fryer comes in - you can cook a turkey breast in an air fryer, and it will be just as juicy and tender as a traditional roasted turkey. In fact, some people prefer it as it cooks faster and frees up oven space. But can you cook two turkey breasts in the same air fryer at the same time?

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for frying two turkey breasts will depend on the weight of the breasts, the method of cooking, and the type of fryer being used.

When cooking two turkey breasts in an oven, it is recommended to preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. The general rule for cooking time is to roast the breasts based on the weight of the larger breast and add 15 minutes to the total cooking time. For example, a 4-6 lb turkey breast should be cooked for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes. However, it is important to note that the temperature of the meat should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for food safety. An instant-read thermometer can be used to check this.

When deep-frying two 7-pound turkey breasts in oil heated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, the cooking time will be approximately 25 minutes. As with roasting, the temperature of the meat should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

When air-frying two turkey breasts, the temperature should be set to 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit. A 4-pound turkey breast will take around 50 minutes to cook, while a 3-pound boneless breast will take around 60 minutes. Again, it is important to ensure the temperature of the meat reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is worth noting that cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of fryer being used, and it is always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey is cooked safely and to your desired doneness.

Cooking methods

Air Fryer

Air fryers are a great option for cooking turkey breasts, as they significantly cut down on cooking time and free up oven space. They are also able to produce a tender, juicy turkey breast with crispy skin in just around an hour.

When preparing a turkey breast in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the breast fits comfortably inside the basket, with a bit of space for airflow. The size of the air fryer basket will determine the size of the turkey breast that can be cooked. For example, a 3- to 5-pound turkey breast is likely the maximum weight that most air fryers can accommodate. It is also recommended to use a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast for the best results, although boneless options can also be cooked with some adjustments to the cooking time.

To cook a turkey breast in an air fryer, first, rub the turkey with a mixture of butter, mayonnaise, and herbs, or a dry rub of salt, pepper, and other seasonings. Then, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and place the turkey breast in the basket, skin-side down. Cook for 20-30 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 25-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160-165°F.

Roasting in an Oven

Roasting two turkey breasts in the oven is a good option if you want to cook them at the same time and don't have an air fryer. This method will give you a similar amount of meat as a whole turkey, but all white meat. The key to successful roasting is to avoid overcooking the meat, as this can dry it out.

To roast two turkey breasts, preheat the oven to 325°F. Arrange the two breasts in a baking pan with the meat side up and season according to your recipe. Roast the turkey breasts based on the weight of the larger breast, adding 15 minutes to the total cooking time. For example, a 4-lb and a 3.5-lb breast should be cooked for around 2 to 2.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 170°F before removing from the oven.

Other Methods

In addition to air frying and roasting, there are a few other methods that can be used to cook turkey breasts. These include slow cooking, grilling, and deep frying. Each method will have its own unique set of instructions and cooking times, so be sure to follow a reliable recipe.

Additionally, when cooking multiple turkey breasts at the same time, it is important to consider the cooking time. If the breasts are separate and have air circulating around them, the roasting time will be the same as for a single breast of that size. However, if the breasts are close together or touching, the cooking time will increase.

Carving the turkey

Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This will help the meat reabsorb the juices, ensuring the turkey stays tender and preventing it from drying out.

Remove any trussing or string from the turkey. If you're carving at the table, start with the breast area. If you're carving in the kitchen, you can start with a clean cut between the leg and the breast.

Removing the Legs and Thighs

Slice through the skin that connects the breast and the drumstick until you hit the bone. Pull the leg back and down until the joint pops out. Press down on the joint to completely sever it and use your knife to separate the leg and thigh from the body. Place on a serving platter and repeat with the other leg.

Removing the Breasts

Find the breastbone and position your knife on one side of it. Slice downward, as close to the bone as possible, and use your other hand to pull the meat away from the bone until you've cut the breast off the carcass in one piece. Transfer to a cutting board and repeat on the other side.

Separating the Drumsticks and Thighs

Place the leg pieces skin-side up on the cutting board and cut between the drumstick and thigh at the joint. Return the drumsticks to the platter and set the thighs aside to slice later.

Slicing the Thighs and Breasts

Hold the thigh bone with a paper towel or tongs and remove the meat from the bone with the edge of your knife. Transfer the meat to the platter.

Position the breast so you'll cut it at its shorter length and slice against the grain, taking care to keep the skin attached. Transfer the pieces to the platter.

Storing and reheating

Storing Leftover Turkey Breasts

Properly storing turkey breasts is crucial to prevent bacterial growth. Allow the cooked turkey breasts to cool to room temperature, then place each piece in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. Refrigerate the containers, ensuring the turkey is stored within the first two hours after cooking. Properly stored, turkey breasts will stay fresh for up to four days in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer. Label the storage bags with the date, and remove as much air as possible before freezing. Remember, the longer you store the meat, the drier it becomes and the more flavour it loses.

Reheating Turkey Breasts in the Oven

The oven method is a classic way to reheat turkey breasts and ensure they stay moist. Preheat your oven to 300°F-350°F. Take your turkey breasts out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature. Place the turkey pieces in a baking dish, and drizzle with a few tablespoons of stock, butter, or gravy. Cover the dish tightly with foil, and heat in the oven for about 15-30 minutes. This slow heating process helps retain moisture and prevents the meat from drying out.

Reheating Turkey Breasts in the Microwave

If you're short on time, the microwave is a convenient option for reheating smaller portions of turkey. Cut the turkey into bite-sized pieces and place them in a microwave-safe dish. Drizzle with stock, broth, or water to add moisture. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and help retain moisture. Heat the turkey in the microwave at 50% power in 1-minute intervals until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This method is best for reheating turkey within a few days of cooking, as the meat tends to lose moisture over time.

Reheating Turkey Breasts in a Steamer

Using a steamer is an excellent way to revive the flavour of turkey breasts, and they can taste even better than freshly cooked. Allow your turkey breasts to come to room temperature. Fill the lower pot of your steamer with stock or water and bring it to a boil. Carefully place a few slices of turkey in the steamer basket in a single layer, cover, and steam for 3-4 minutes. Let the turkey rest for a minute before serving to retain moisture.

Reheating Turkey Breasts in a Skillet

For a quick and surprising reheat, a skillet can do the job nicely. Set your stove to medium heat and place a single layer of turkey slices in the skillet. Pour in enough stock or gravy to reach the level of the meat. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and cook for around 5 minutes, or until the meat absorbs most of the liquid. Keep an eye on the stock level to ensure it doesn't dry out, adding more if needed.

Reheating Turkey Breasts in an Air Fryer

While air fryers are convenient and fast, they can dry out the meat more than other methods. Set your air fryer to 300°F. Lightly coat the turkey slices with stock, gravy, or balsamic vinegar, and tightly wrap them in foil. Place the wrapped slices in the air fryer basket and heat for about 5-6 minutes. Remove the turkey from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute before serving.

Air fryer size and type

The size and type of air fryer you need depend on how many people you're cooking for and how much counter space you have. Air fryers range from small to extra-large, from 2 quarts to 10 quarts.

Solo Air Fryer

The most basic type of air fryer is best for most people and is also the most budget-friendly. These typically have a capacity of 2 to 7 quarts and are good for cooking for one or two people. Ninja makes a good one with two 4-quart cooking baskets (8 quarts overall).

Air Fryer Toaster Oven

These are bulkier than solo air fryers and take up more counter space, but they can be a good option if you're looking for a countertop toaster oven that can also air fry. They typically have a capacity of 1 cubic foot and can fit a standard 9x13 casserole dish or a 5-quart Dutch oven. Breville makes an excellent model with 13 preset functions, including air fry, slow cook, roast, broil, bake, cookies, pizza, toast, bagel, reheat, proof, dehydrate, and warm.

Air Fryer and Multicooker

These are the most advanced and versatile air fryers, but they also tend to be the most expensive. They can have a capacity of 6 quarts or more and can function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more. The Ninja Foodi and Instant Pot Duo Crisp are popular options.

Air Fryer Size Recommendations

• For cooking for one or two people, a 2- or 3-quart air fryer should be sufficient.
• For a family of three, consider a 6-quart air fryer.
• For a family of four or more, opt for at least a 6-quart capacity, or even an extra-large 8- to 10-quart model if you have the counter space.
• If you're cooking for a crowd, a dual-basket air fryer with removable dividers can be a good option.

Other Factors to Consider

In addition to size and type, here are some other things to keep in mind when choosing an air fryer:

• Price: Air fryers can range in price from around $30 to over $300, but you can find good options for around $100.
• Functions: Some air fryers have additional functions like dehydrate, broil, bake, and reheat. If you want a multi-functional appliance, consider an air fryer toaster oven or a multicooker with an air fryer function.
• Ease of use: Look for an air fryer with a user-friendly interface, preferably with a touchscreen and a dial for adjusting the temperature.
• Noise level: Some air fryers can be loud, so consider this if you have an open-plan kitchen or sensitive hearing.
• Cleaning: Choose an air fryer that is easy to clean, with removable parts that can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher.

Tips for Using an Air Fryer

• Oil: You don't need to use oil in an air fryer, but a light coating of cooking oil can help prevent vegetables and potatoes from drying out.
• Foods to avoid: Leafy greens like spinach and kale are not suitable for air frying as they will dry out and turn crispy. Broccoli can also burn easily, so it's best to wrap it in foil before air frying. Steaks are tricky to cook in an air fryer and tend to dry out, so it's best to cook them using a different method.
• Cooking time: Air fryers cook food more quickly than a traditional oven, so you may need to adjust your cooking times accordingly.
• Accessories: There are various accessories available for air fryers, such as racks, baskets, and trays, that can enhance their versatility.

In summary, when choosing an air fryer, consider the number of people you'll be cooking for, your available counter space, your budget, and the features that are most important to you.

Frequently asked questions