Ingredients
- 1 turkey breast (bone-in or boneless, about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for extra flavor
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat. Preheating helps ensure even cooking and a perfectly crisp finish on the turkey breast.
2. Season the Turkey Breast
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and onion powder. Rub the mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly. If using fresh herbs, tuck them under the skin for extra flavor.
3. Place the Turkey in the Air Fryer
Place the seasoned turkey breast in the air fryer basket with the skin side up. Make sure the turkey fits comfortably without overcrowding to allow the hot air to circulate evenly around it.
4. Cook the Turkey Breast
Cook the turkey breast at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 60 minutes, depending on its size. After about 30 minutes, check the turkey and rotate it if necessary to ensure even browning. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Check the Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the turkey at the thickest part of the breast. Once it hits 165°F (74°C), your turkey breast is fully cooked and safe to eat.
6. Let the Turkey Rest
Remove the turkey from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy turkey breast.
- Choose the Right Size: Make sure the turkey breast fits in your air fryer. A 3-4 pound turkey breast is ideal for most air fryers.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Don’t rely solely on cooking time; always check the internal temperature for doneness.
- Add Extra Flavor: For a more savory turkey, try adding fresh garlic or citrus zest to the seasoning mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Your air-fried turkey breast pairs beautifully with side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. You can also use leftovers for sandwiches, salads, or wraps.
