Air Fryer Herb Butter Turkey Breast Recipe
This Air Fryer Turkey Breast recipe delivers juicy, flavorful turkey with crispy skin in just over an hour. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, this method uses an air fryer to cook the turkey evenly and efficiently, resulting in a perfect, tender bird that’s ideal for a small gathering or holiday meal.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Butter Herb Mixture
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped rosemary
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
Main Ingredients
- 1 3-5 lb bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
- 1 lemon (sliced into wheels)
Instructions
- Thaw and Dry Brine (Optional): Begin by thawing the turkey breast overnight in the refrigerator. If desired, perform a dry brine to enhance flavor and juiciness.
- Preheat and Prepare: Remove the turkey from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Ten minutes before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Make Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, chopped sage, rosemary, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Apply Butter Under Skin: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin from both breast pieces without tearing it. Spoon half of the butter herb mixture underneath the skin and spread evenly over the meat. Reserve the remaining butter for later.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray. Lay lemon slices evenly at the bottom of the basket. Place the turkey breast skin-side down on top of the lemon slices.
- First Cooking Phase: Air fry the turkey breast at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Flip and Butter the Top: Carefully flip the turkey breast skin-side up. Spread the remaining herb butter evenly on top using a spatula.
- Second Cooking Phase: Return the turkey to the air fryer and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 155°F. Check every 10 minutes to prevent burning; if needed, flip to the side or cover loosely with foil.
- Rest the Turkey: Remove the turkey breast from the air fryer and place on a cutting board or platter. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving to ensure juices redistribute.
Notes
- For boneless turkey breast, reduce the cooking time and check internal temperature frequently.
- Using fresh herbs improves flavor but dried herbs can be substituted at half the amount.
- Letting the turkey rest after cooking is crucial for juicy meat.
- Spraying the air fryer basket prevents sticking and helps with even cooking.
- Always use a meat thermometer to avoid under or overcooking.
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