For irresistibly crispy air fryer turkey breast, pat the meat completely dry (crucial step!), then slide herb butter under the skin and all over the outside.
Cook it at 350°F, starting skin-side down for 20 minutes, then flip and continue until it hits 165°F internally.
The result? Gloriously golden skin with tender, juicy meat underneath.
Let it rest 10-15 minutes before carving. Your patience will be deliciously rewarded!
Ingredients
Additionally, having the right kitchen tools can significantly improve your cooking experience and efficiency.
Recommended Tools
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- Air Fryer:
The star of the show that circulates hot air to create that crispy skin without all the oil of traditional frying. This method ensures perfectly cooked eggs that are fluffy and delicious.
- Meat Thermometer:
Essential for checking that your turkey has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Kitchen Tongs:
Makes flipping the hot turkey breast halfway through cooking super easy and safe.
- Mixing Bowl:
Perfect for combining your softened butter with herbs and seasonings before applying to the turkey.
- Carving Knife:
Helps you get those beautiful, clean slices after your turkey has rested properly.
- Paper Towels:
Useful for patting the turkey dry before seasoning, which helps achieve that crispy skin everyone loves.
- Air Fryer:
Instructions for crispy air fryer turkey breast
Ready to make the juiciest, crispiest turkey breast ever? Let’s get started!
First things first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab 4 Tbsp of softened unsalted butter and mix it with 4-4½ Tbsp of fresh poultry herbs (or 1½ Tbsp poultry seasoning if you’re in a pinch). Add ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper to your butter mixture and stir until everything is well combined. This herb butter is about to become your turkey’s new best friend!
Now for the fun part! Take your 3-4 lb turkey breast and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is super important for achieving that crispy skin we’re all dreaming about.
Using your fingers, gently separate the skin from the meat. Be careful not to tear it – we’re creating a little pocket for all that flavor!
Scoop about half of your amazing herb butter and spread it under the skin, directly onto the meat. Feel free to massage it in a bit (your turkey will thank you!).
Then, take the remaining butter and slather it all over the outside of your turkey breast. Don’t be shy here!
Pop your seasoned turkey breast into the air fryer with the skin side down first. Let it cook for 20 minutes, then carefully flip it over so the skin side is up.
Grab any juices that have collected and baste your turkey to keep it moist and flavorful. Continue cooking for another 20-25 minutes until your meat thermometer reads 165°F at the thickest part.
The hardest part comes next – waiting! Let your turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
I know it’s tempting to dig right in (the smell will be amazing!), but this resting time allows all those delicious juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Pro Tips
For the crispiest skin possible, pat the turkey breast completely dry with paper towels before applying the herb butter, as any moisture left on the surface will create steam rather than browning during air frying.
Substitutions & Variations
While the classic herb butter turkey breast is delicious on its own, you can customize this recipe to match different flavor profiles or dietary needs without losing that crispy air-fried perfection.
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- Mediterranean Twist: Substitute the herb mixture with a blend of oregano, thyme, lemon zest and olive oil instead of butter for a lighter Mediterranean-inspired turkey breast.
- Spicy Southwest: Replace traditional poultry herbs with a mixture of chili powder, cumin, garlic and smoked paprika for a bold southwestern flavor profile.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap the herb butter for a mixture of ginger, garlic, soy sauce and sesame oil then brush with honey during the last 5 minutes for a sweet-savory glaze.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use olive oil or dairy-free butter substitute combined with herbs to accommodate lactose intolerance or dairy allergies without sacrificing moisture.
- Citrus Brightness: Add orange or lemon zest to the herb butter and stuff a few citrus slices under the skin alongside the butter for a refreshing flavor variation.
- Turkey-Free Alternative: Apply the same technique to a chicken breast or even a firm white fish like halibut adjusting cooking time accordingly for a different protein experience.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
After customizing your air fryer turkey with one of those tasty variations, you’ll likely have some leftovers—and that’s actually a good thing!
Store your turkey in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months!
Don’t waste those drippings either—they’re perfect for gravy or adding flavor to soups.
Reheat slices in your air fryer at 300°F for just 3-4 minutes.
Try Tonight
Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Breast with Herb Butter Under the Skin
Juicy turkey breast with crispy skin and flavorful herb butter cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
- 3–4 lb turkey breast, skin on
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 4–4½ Tbsp fresh poultry herbs (or 1½ Tbsp poultry seasoning)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper (or to taste)
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Mix butter with herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Pat turkey dry, separate skin gently, and spread half the herb butter between skin and flesh; coat outside with remainder.
- Place turkey skin side down, air fry 20 minutes. Flip, baste with juices, cook 20–25 more minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Let rest 10–15 minutes before carving.
