Air Fryer Turkey Breast: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Turkey is a dish often reserved for Thanksgiving, but it doesn't have to be. An air fryer turkey breast is a great way to enjoy this meal without the hours of cooking time and oven space needed for a full-sized turkey. This method is also perfect for smaller gatherings and weeknight dinners.

The air fryer cuts down cooking time by more than half compared to classic roast turkey, and it's less labour-intensive. You can also skip the wet or dry brine, and the smaller portion means there's less mess.

A 3-pound boneless turkey breast will take around an hour to cook in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. A 4- to 6-pound bone-in turkey breast will take 40 to 50 minutes at the same temperature.

The key to a juicy, tender, and golden-brown turkey breast is to pat the meat dry before adding butter or oil and seasoning. It's also important to cook the turkey breast skin-side down first to keep the meat juicy and prevent the skin from overcooking.

Turkey breast cooking time in an air fryer

The cooking time for a turkey breast in an air fryer depends on the weight of the meat and whether it is boneless or bone-in.

Boneless Turkey Breast

A boneless turkey breast weighing 2 to 3 pounds will take around 45 minutes to an hour to cook in an air fryer. It is recommended that you preheat the air fryer to 350°F to 360°F and cook the breast for 20 minutes skin-side down, before flipping it over and cooking for a further 25 to 40 minutes. The turkey breast is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Bone-in Turkey Breast

A bone-in turkey breast weighing 4 to 6 pounds will take around 40 to 55 minutes to cook in an air fryer. It is recommended that you preheat the air fryer to 350°F to 360°F and cook the breast for 20 minutes skin-side down, before flipping it over and cooking for a further 20 to 30 minutes. The turkey breast is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Tips

• It is important to ensure that the turkey breast fits in the air fryer without touching the heating element.
• You can brine the turkey breast beforehand, but this is not necessary.
• Pat the breast dry with paper towels and brush with oil or butter before seasoning.
• Always use a meat thermometer to check that the turkey has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Allow the turkey to rest for 10 minutes before slicing, to ensure the meat is juicy.

Turkey breast prep time

The prep time for a turkey breast in an air fryer can vary depending on the size of the breast and the specific air fryer being used. However, on average, you can expect the prep time to be between 5 to 10 minutes. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing your turkey breast for cooking in an air fryer:

Step 1: Defrost the Turkey Breast

If your turkey breast is frozen, it's important to fully defrost it before cooking. Place the frozen turkey breast in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight or for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning.

Step 2: Remove Netting (Optional)

If your turkey breast is boneless, it may have a net or string netting around it. You can choose to remove this netting, but it's not necessary. The netting helps hold the meat together during cooking and can result in more even cooking. If you decide to keep the netting on, make sure it is an oven-safe material.

Step 3: Pat the Turkey Dry

Before adding any seasonings or oil, use paper towels to pat the turkey dry. This step is important as it helps the seasonings adhere to the meat and ensures a crispier skin. Make sure to remove any excess moisture from the surface of the turkey breast.

Step 4: Season the Turkey

Now it's time to season your turkey breast! You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, sage, thyme, or poultry seasoning. You can also use a dry brine or wet brine if you want to add extra flavour and moisture to the meat. Don't be shy with the seasonings—liberally coat the entire surface of the turkey breast.

If you're using butter or oil, rub it all over the turkey breast, getting into all the nooks and crannies. This step will help with browning and add to the crispiness of the skin. You can use olive oil, butter, or mayonnaise for this purpose.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. Most recipes recommend a temperature between 350°F to 390°F (180°C). Refer to your specific air fryer's instructions for the best results.

Step 6: Place the Turkey in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned turkey breast in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. This initial positioning helps keep the meat juicy and prevents the skin from overcooking too quickly.

Step 7: Cook the Turkey

The cooking time will depend on the size and type of turkey breast (boneless or bone-in) and the specifications of your air fryer. For example, a 2-pound boneless turkey breast may take around 45 minutes to cook, while a 4-pound bone-in breast may take 55 to 65 minutes.

During the cooking process, you may need to flip the turkey breast once or twice to ensure even cooking. Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. The target temperature is 165°F (74°C), but remember that the temperature will continue to rise slightly as the meat rests.

Tips for Preparing Turkey Breast in an Air Fryer:

• Always use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the turkey breast.
• Allow the turkey breast to rest for 10 minutes after cooking before slicing or serving. This resting period helps retain moisture and ensures juicy meat.
• If you're using a bone-in turkey breast, consider removing the ribs before cooking. This step makes it easier to fit the breast in the air fryer and can result in more even cooking.
• If you're brining the turkey breast, plan accordingly, as brining can add several hours to the prep time.
• If you're using a frozen turkey breast, make sure to fully defrost it before cooking.

Turkey breast internal temperature

The internal temperature of a turkey breast is a crucial factor in determining whether it is safe to eat. The US government recommends cooking turkey breasts to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria are destroyed, preventing foodborne illnesses.

However, some people prefer their turkey breast at a lower temperature of around 150°F (66°F), as it is juicier at this point. According to the USDA, as long as the turkey breast reaches at least 150°F (66°C) for 3.7 minutes, it is safe to eat. This lower temperature can be achieved by removing the turkey breast from the heat once it reaches 150°F and allowing it to rest, as the internal temperature will continue to rise to the safe minimum of 165°F.

To accurately measure the internal temperature of a turkey breast, it is best to use a thermometer. The ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE is highly recommended for its speed, responsiveness, and automatic backlight, which is useful when checking the temperature in an oven. When checking the temperature, it is recommended to measure it in three locations: the deepest part of the breast, the joint between the thigh and body, and the joint between the drumstick and thigh.

For boneless turkey breasts cooked in an air fryer, it is important to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. This can be achieved by cooking at 360°F (182°C) for about an hour, turning the breast every 15 minutes. For bone-in turkey breasts in an air fryer, cooking at 360°F (182°C) for 25 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, will ensure it is cooked properly.

In summary, while the recommended safe minimum internal temperature for turkey breasts is 165°F (74°C), some prefer their meat juicier and aim for an internal temperature of 150°F (66°F), relying on the carryover heat to bring the temperature to a safe level during resting. Accurate temperature measurement is essential, and a good thermometer is a valuable tool for any cook.

Turkey breast weight

The weight of the turkey breast will determine how long it needs to be cooked in the air fryer for. A 2-2.5-pound boneless turkey breast will take around 45 minutes to cook. A 3-pound boneless turkey breast will take around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. A 4-pound bone-in turkey breast will take around 55-65 minutes. A 4-6-pound bone-in turkey breast will take around 40-50 minutes.

It's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the model of your air fryer, the shape of your turkey breast, and the size of your air fryer. For example, a thinner, flatter shape will cook quicker than a thicker, rounder shape. It's recommended to use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the turkey breast has reached 165°F.

Turkey breast side dishes

Turkey breast cooked in an air fryer is a juicy, tasty, and convenient meal. It's a great option when you don't want to turn on the oven or spend extra time brining the turkey.

Now, let's talk about some mouth-watering side dishes to serve with your air-fried turkey breast!

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish. They go perfectly with the tender turkey, providing a soft and buttery texture. Don't forget to add a generous amount of gravy, made from the turkey drippings, flour, and broth, to tie all the flavors together.

Green Beans

Green beans add a fresh and crisp element to your meal. You can steam or sauté them with garlic and butter for a light and healthy option. Their vibrant color and slight crunch offer a nice contrast to the other softer sides. For a sweet and savory twist, try honey and balsamic green beans.

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser and a great comfort food to pair with turkey breast. This creamy and cheesy pasta dish brings richness and indulgence to the meal. Use a mix of cheeses for added depth of flavor, and don't be afraid to add some broccoli for a pop of color.

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment to turkey. Its tart and sweet flavors cut through the richness of the other dishes. Simply simmer cranberries with sugar and orange zest for a bright and tangy condiment. It not only adds flavor but also brings a pop of color to your plate.

Honey-Glazed Carrots

Honey-glazed carrots are a simple yet delicious side dish. Roasting carrots with honey, butter, and a sprinkle of herbs and salt brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely caramelized exterior. They add a touch of sweetness to your meal and pair beautifully with the turkey.

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts with bacon is a flavorful and textured combination. The slight bitterness of the sprouts and the salty, crispy bacon bits create a delicious contrast to the mild turkey breast. You can roast or sauté them for a smoky and savory side dish.

Cornbread Casserole

Cornbread casserole is a comforting and hearty side. It combines cornbread mix with creamed corn and other simple ingredients, resulting in a sweet and moist dish that goes hand-in-hand with the lean turkey.

Stuffed Mushrooms

For an elegant and tasty side, try stuffed mushrooms. Fill mushroom caps with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then bake them to perfection. They offer a savory burst of flavor and a nice textural contrast to the turkey, making them a hit at any dinner table.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a colorful and tasty treat. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, combined with your favorite spices, provides a savory and crispy delight. They add both flavor and visual appeal to your meal, creating a lovely contrast to the savory turkey breast.

Butternut Squash

Butternut squash, either roasted or mashed, pairs wonderfully with turkey breast. Its natural sweetness and smooth texture complement the meat. For a caramelized effect, roast cubes of squash with honey and cinnamon, or mash it with butter and nutmeg for a creamy side.

Gravy

Gravy is essential when serving turkey breast. It ties all the flavors together and adds moisture and richness. Don't skimp on the gravy!

Frequently asked questions