Cody Casey
Cooking a boneless turkey breast in an air fryer is a great way to make a delicious, juicy, and tender main dish for a smaller gathering or a weeknight dinner. It is a convenient option that yields tasty results and is much faster than traditional roasting. With an air fryer, you can have a perfectly cooked, golden turkey breast on your table in less than an hour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 20 minutes to 1 hour |
| Cooking time | 45 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes |
| Ingredients | Boneless turkey breast, oil, butter, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, rosemary, sage, poultry seasoning, mayonnaise |
| Equipment | Air fryer, instant-read thermometer, cutting board, paper towels, small bowl |
| Temperature | 350-360° F |
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$155.21 $179.99
What You'll Learn
Choosing the right turkey breast
If you are looking for a juicier and more flavourful option, a bone-in turkey breast may be a better choice. They are larger and yield more meat, but they also take longer to cook. A good rule of thumb is to plan to purchase 1.5 pounds of turkey per person if you want leftovers or 1 pound per person if you don't want leftovers.
When choosing a turkey breast, it is also important to consider the cooking method. If you are short on time, a boneless turkey breast is a good option as it cooks faster than a bone-in breast. It is also important to note that boneless turkey breasts typically require a shorter cooking time, so you will need to adjust your recipe accordingly.
Another factor to consider is whether you want to brine the turkey breast. Brining can help the turkey retain moisture and deliver a moist and plump bird. If you decide to brine, be sure to start the process the day before you plan to cook.
Finally, consider the quality and source of the turkey breast. Look for a reputable source that offers high-quality, fresh turkey breasts. Check the packaging for any signs of damage or discoloration, and ensure the turkey breast is within the sell-by date.
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Preparing the turkey breast
In a small bowl, mix your choice of seasonings. You can use a simple herb seasoning or a blend of salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika. Be sure to season generously, as this will add flavour to the meat. You can also add oil to the seasoning mix, or brush the turkey breast with oil before applying the seasoning blend. This will help the skin crisp up nicely.
If your boneless turkey breast has a string net, you can choose to leave it on during cooking. The net can help the meat cook together and slice better after cooking. However, make sure to tuck in as much of the seasoning butter under the skin and all over as possible. Once the turkey breast is seasoned, it's ready to be placed in the air fryer.
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Preparing the air fryer
Firstly, ensure your turkey breast is fully thawed and has been brought to room temperature. This step is important as it helps the turkey cook evenly and allows the seasonings to stick better. Aim for about 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature. During this time, you can also prepare the turkey breast by patting it dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasonings adhere better to the meat.
Next, prepare your seasonings. In a small bowl, mix your desired dry seasonings. You can use a simple herb seasoning or create your own blend. A basic blend could include salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika. You can also add oil to your seasonings to create a paste that can be more easily rubbed onto the turkey breast. Alternatively, you can use mayonnaise instead of oil for a unique flavor.
Once your seasonings are ready, it's time to preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit. Most recipes recommend this temperature range for cooking a boneless turkey breast.
After preheating, it's a good idea to prepare your air fryer basket. Spray it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent the turkey from sticking. This step is especially important if your turkey breast has a string net, as some recipes recommend keeping the net on during cooking.
Now, you are ready to place the seasoned turkey breast into the air fryer basket. If your turkey breast has a string net, ensure that the seasoning is tucked under the skin and all over the meat. Place the turkey breast skin-side down in the basket and you're ready to begin cooking!
Remember, these steps are key to preparing your air fryer for cooking a delicious, juicy boneless turkey breast.
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Cooking the turkey breast
After your turkey breast is nicely coated, spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray. Place the seasoned turkey breast into the basket. Preheat your air fryer to 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit. Once preheated, place the turkey breast in the air fryer, skin-side down, and cook for 20-25 minutes. Then, carefully flip the turkey over and continue cooking for 30 to 50 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the thickest part of the meat has reached 155-165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the turkey from the air fryer basket and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender turkey breast. Finally, slice the turkey breast and serve it to your hungry guests!
With this method, you can have a delicious, juicy and tender turkey breast on the table in less than an hour. It's perfect for small gatherings or easy weeknight dinners. Enjoy!
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Resting and serving the turkey breast
Once the internal temperature of your boneless turkey breast has reached 165°F, it's time to remove it from the air fryer. Place the cooked turkey breast on a cutting board and tent it with aluminum foil. Allow the meat to rest for 5 to 15 minutes before carving and serving it. This resting period is critical, as it lets the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and juicy final product.
While the turkey breast is resting, you can prepare any desired sides or sauces to go along with it. Some side dish options that pair well with turkey include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. For sauces, you might consider making a gravy or cranberry sauce to complement the flavors of the turkey.
When it comes to carving the turkey breast, use a sharp knife to slice the meat against the grain. This will ensure that the meat is tender and easy to chew. You can cut the meat into thin or thick slices, depending on your preference. If you have leftovers, properly store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Now, you're ready to serve your juicy and flavorful air-fried boneless turkey breast! Enjoy your delicious meal, whether it's for a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner. Don't forget to carve the meat evenly to ensure everyone gets a tasty portion.
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Frequently asked questions
First, remove the turkey from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey breast with oil and season with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika.
Preheat your air fryer to 350-360°F.
It takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook a boneless turkey breast in an air fryer. Turn the turkey breast every 5-15 minutes to avoid burning.
The turkey breast is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
