If you’ve ever struggled to cook a turkey breast that’s juicy and flavorful, this Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipe is about to change your life. The air fryer works its magic to create a golden, crispy exterior while locking in the moisture, giving you tender and perfectly cooked turkey in less time than traditional methods.

Whether you’re preparing a small Thanksgiving meal, a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with all your favorite sides and sauces. Let’s dive into this foolproof turkey breast recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Here’s why this recipe is a game-changer for turkey lovers:

Quick and Easy:
Cooking turkey in the air fryer significantly reduces the cooking time compared to the oven, making it perfect for busy days.
Juicy and Tender:
The air fryer locks in moisture, ensuring every bite of turkey is flavorful and tender.
Golden and Crispy:
The high heat of the air fryer creates a beautifully golden, crispy skin that’s loaded with flavor.
Small-Batch Friendly:
This recipe is ideal for smaller gatherings or when you don’t want to cook a whole turkey.
Healthy and Wholesome:
Turkey breast is a lean protein, making this dish a healthy option for any meal.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Turkey Breast

This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful, perfectly cooked turkey breast:

1. Turkey Breast

Use a bone-in or boneless turkey breast, depending on your preference. Both work well in this recipe.

2. Olive Oil

Olive oil helps create a crispy, golden skin and helps the seasonings stick to the turkey.

3. Garlic Powder

Garlic powder enhances the flavor and adds a savory depth.

4. Paprika

Paprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and helps give the skin a golden color.

5. Dried Herbs

A mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley adds a classic herby flavor.

6. Salt and Pepper

Simple seasonings like salt and pepper bring out the natural flavor of the turkey.

Optional Add-ins and Variations

Citrus Flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice to the seasoning mix for a fresh, zesty flavor.
Butter Baste: Brush the turkey with melted butter before air frying for extra richness.
Spicy Turkey: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle kick.
Garlic Herb Butter: Rub the turkey with a garlic herb butter mixture for a more indulgent flavor profile.

How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Follow these simple steps to make perfectly cooked turkey breast in your air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast

Pat the turkey breast dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, including under the skin if possible.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey Breast

Place the turkey breast skin-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 35–45 minutes, depending on the size of the turkey breast. Flip halfway through for even cooking. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the turkey breast from the air fryer and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.

Serving Suggestions

This Air Fryer Turkey Breast is versatile and pairs beautifully with your favorite sides and sauces:

Classic Thanksgiving Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green beans for a traditional holiday meal.
Low-Carb Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, cauliflower mash, or a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Sandwiches and Salads: Use the sliced turkey for sandwiches or as a protein topping for salads.
Grain Bowls: Serve over quinoa or wild rice with roasted vegetables for a hearty, balanced meal.

Tips for Perfect Turkey Breast

Pat the Turkey Dry: Removing excess moisture ensures the skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the turkey rest after cooking helps retain its juices and flavor.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure the turkey is fully cooked.
Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your turkey breast. Bone-in turkey may take slightly longer than boneless.
Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences.