Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipe: Crispy & Juicy Every Time
Looking for a quick, easy, and foolproof way to prepare a perfectly juicy turkey breast? This Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipe is your answer!

The air fryer delivers golden, crispy skin and tender meat in a fraction of the time it takes to roast in a traditional oven.
Whether it’s for a small holiday gathering or a healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
What Is Air Fryer Turkey Breast?
Air Fryer Turkey Breast is a simple and delicious way to cook turkey using the air fryer.
The rapid air circulation ensures the skin gets beautifully crisp while keeping the meat moist and juicy.
Seasoned with a flavorful herb and spice rub, this dish is perfect for those who want all the taste of roasted turkey without the hassle of a full-sized bird.
Ingredients You’ll Need for this Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipe
This recipe serves 4–6.
Main Ingredients:
- 3–4 pounds bone-in or boneless turkey breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions:
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (for a smoky kick)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for added brightness)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for extra richness)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or sage for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations
- Butter Basting: Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor and golden skin.
- Oil Alternatives: Use avocado oil or melted coconut oil instead of olive oil.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Swap out the dried herbs for an Italian seasoning blend or Cajun spices for a different flavor profile.
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: This recipe works for both, but adjust cooking time for boneless turkey breast, as it may cook faster.
Step-by-Step Instructions for this Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipe
1. Prepare the Turkey Breast
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. This step helps ensure crispy skin.
- Brush the entire turkey breast with olive oil, coating it evenly.
2. Mix the Seasoning Rub
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Turkey Breast
- Place the turkey breast in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for 45–60 minutes, depending on the size of the turkey breast.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
5. Rest the Turkey
- Remove the turkey breast from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
6. Slice and Serve
- Slice the turkey breast into thin pieces and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with your favorite sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Preheat Step: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and drying out the turkey.
- Crowding the Basket: Leave space around the turkey breast to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Resting the turkey is essential for juicy, tender meat.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Pair with Sides: Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
- Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, sage, or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
- Elegant Plating: Arrange slices on a platter and drizzle with pan juices or gravy for an impressive presentation.
Expert Tips
- Dry Brine for Extra Flavor: Season the turkey breast with salt and herbs the night before cooking and refrigerate uncovered. This enhances the flavor and helps crisp the skin.
- Crispier Skin: Brush the skin with butter halfway through cooking for an extra-crispy finish.
- Use the Drippings: Collect drippings from the air fryer basket to make a quick pan sauce or gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook a frozen turkey breast in the air fryer?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the turkey breast completely for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, add 20–30 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain moisture and texture.
Can I use this recipe for a whole turkey?
This recipe is designed for turkey breast. For a whole turkey, you’ll need to adjust the seasoning and cooking time.
What other seasonings can I use?
Try lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or a BBQ rub for a flavor twist.

Conclusion
This Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for an easy, flavorful, and foolproof way to enjoy turkey.
Perfect for holidays or everyday meals, it delivers crispy skin, tender meat, and incredible flavor in less time than traditional methods.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll never go back to oven-roasting!