Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a delicious and crispy turkey without the hassle of using an oven, then cooking your turkey in an air fryer oven might be the perfect solution for you! Air fryer ovens have become popular in recent years, thanks to their ability to cook food quickly and evenly while using less oil.
When it comes to cooking a turkey in an air fryer oven, the size of the turkey will determine the cooking time. As a general rule, you should cook your turkey at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes per pound. So, for example, if you have a 10-pound turkey, you would cook it for around 3 hours and 20 minutes.
However, it’s important to note that cooking times can vary depending on the specific air fryer oven model and the turkey’s thickness. It’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended cooking times for your specific air fryer oven.
To ensure that your turkey is cooked thoroughly and reaches a safe internal temperature, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh without touching the bone to get an accurate reading.
So, if you’re looking for a quicker and more convenient way to cook your turkey, give the air fryer oven a try! With the right cooking time and temperature, you’ll have a delicious, juicy, and perfectly cooked turkey every time.
Preparing the Turkey
Before you start cooking your turkey in the air fryer oven, it is important to properly prepare it. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and perfectly cooked turkey:
1. Thawing the Turkey
If you have a frozen turkey, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The safest method for thawing a turkey is to do it in the refrigerator. Place the turkey on a tray or in a pan to catch any drippings, and allow it to thaw for 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. Make sure to keep the turkey covered while thawing to prevent any cross-contamination.
2. Cleaning and Seasoning
Once the turkey is thawed, remove it from the packaging and rinse it under cold water. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels, making sure to dry both the inside and outside. Prepare a rub or seasoning mixture of your choice, combining herbs, spices, and oil or butter. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the turkey, both on the surface and inside the cavity. This will help to flavor the turkey and make the skin crispy.
Note: Some people prefer to brine their turkey before cooking. If you choose to brine, do it before seasoning the turkey and follow the recommended brining time and ratio of salt to water.
3. Trimming and Tying the Turkey
Check the turkey for any excess fat or loose skin and trim it if necessary. Tucking the wings under the turkey will help prevent them from burning. If the turkey legs are not tied together, use kitchen twine to tie them. This will help the turkey cook more evenly and maintain its shape during the cooking process.
Following these preparation steps will ensure that your turkey is ready to be cooked in the air fryer oven. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust the cooking time based on the size of your turkey.
Seasoning and marinating the turkey
Seasoning and marinating the turkey is an essential step to infuse it with flavor and ensure a moist and tender result. Here are some tips to help you achieve a deliciously seasoned turkey in your air fryer oven:
1. Dry brining:
Dry brining involves rubbing the turkey with salt and any desired herbs or spices. This process not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. To dry brine your turkey, generously sprinkle salt and your chosen seasonings all over the surface of the turkey, including the cavity. Place the seasoned turkey in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Wet brining:
If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can wet brine your turkey. Simply dissolve salt in water or a flavored liquid, such as apple cider or broth, and immerse the turkey in the brine solution. Let it soak in the refrigerator for the recommended amount of time, usually around 12-24 hours, before cooking. Rinse the turkey thoroughly and pat it dry before air frying.
3. Rubs and marinades:
Aside from salt, you can use a variety of seasonings, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful rub or marinade for your turkey. Traditional options include garlic, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, sage, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients together with some oil or melted butter to create a paste, and then rub it all over the turkey. For a more intense flavor, marinate the turkey in the mixture for several hours or overnight.
Whichever seasoning or marinating method you choose, be sure to pat the turkey dry before placing it in the air fryer oven. Excess moisture on the surface can prevent the turkey from achieving a crispy skin.
Preheating the air fryer oven
Before cooking your turkey in the air fryer oven, it is essential to preheat the appliance properly. Preheating the air fryer oven helps ensure even cooking and crispy results. Here are the steps to preheat your air fryer oven:
Step 1:
Place the air fryer oven on a stable and heat-resistant surface. Make sure there is enough clearance from any surrounding walls or objects.
Step 2:
Plug in the air fryer oven and turn it on. Most air fryer ovens come with a power button that needs to be pressed. Look for the power indicator to confirm that the appliance is turned on.
Step 3:
Set the temperature on the air fryer oven to the desired preheating temperature. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended preheating temperature for cooking turkey.
Step 4:
Allow the air fryer oven to preheat for around 5 minutes or until it reaches the desired preheating temperature. The preheating time may vary depending on the model and brand of the air fryer oven.
Step 5:
Once the air fryer oven has reached the desired preheating temperature, it is ready for cooking the turkey. Make sure to follow the specific cooking instructions for your air fryer oven and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cooking the turkey in the air fryer oven
When it comes to cooking a turkey in an air fryer oven, there are a few important things to keep in mind. The cooking time and temperature will vary depending on the size of the turkey and the specific air fryer oven you are using. However, here are some general guidelines to help you get started.
Selecting the right size turkey
It’s important to select a turkey that will fit comfortably in your air fryer oven. Most air fryer ovens can accommodate a turkey up to 12 pounds, but it’s best to check the specifications of your specific oven to be sure. If you have a larger turkey, you may need to remove the legs or breast to ensure it fits.
Preparing the turkey
Before cooking the turkey in the air fryer oven, it’s important to properly prepare it. Make sure to thaw the turkey completely if it’s frozen. Rinse the turkey with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. You can also season the turkey with your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Important: It’s essential to follow all food safety guidelines when handling and preparing raw poultry.
Cooking time and temperature
Preheat your air fryer oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray, breast side up. Cook the turkey for about 20 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 10-pound turkey, cook it for about 200 minutes or 3 hours and 20 minutes. However, it’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the turkey using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Important: These cooking times are just a guideline and may need to be adjusted based on your specific air fryer oven and the size of your turkey. It’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific oven.
Resting and carving the turkey
Once the turkey reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer oven. Allow the turkey to rest for about 20 minutes before carving. This will help the juices redistribute and result in a moister and more flavorful turkey.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific air fryer oven and consult a recipe or cooking guide for more detailed instructions. Enjoy your deliciously cooked turkey!
Checking the internal temperature of the turkey
Once you have cooked the turkey in your air fryer oven for the recommended amount of time, it is important to check the internal temperature to ensure that it is fully cooked. This is crucial for food safety and to ensure that the turkey is tender and juicy.
To check the internal temperature of the turkey, carefully remove it from the air fryer oven using oven mitts or tongs. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to measure the temperature by inserting it into the thickest part of the turkey, avoiding any bones.
The turkey should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat. Make sure to take multiple readings from different areas of the turkey to ensure an accurate reading.
If the temperature is below the recommended level, return the turkey to the air fryer oven and continue cooking for additional time. It is important to monitor the temperature closely to avoid overcooking the turkey.
Once the turkey has reached the correct internal temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist turkey.
Remember, using an instant-read meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure that your turkey is cooked to perfection in your air fryer oven. It is always better to be safe and properly cooked than to risk undercooking and potential foodborne illness.
Resting, carving, and serving the turkey
After cooking your turkey in the air fryer oven, it is important to let it rest before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute through the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Here are the steps to properly rest, carve, and serve your turkey:
1. Resting the turkey
Once the turkey is cooked, remove it from the air fryer oven and transfer it to a cutting board or serving platter. Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This rest time is crucial as it allows the proteins in the meat to relax, making it easier to carve and preserving its juiciness.
2. Carving the turkey
Start by removing the aluminum foil and any twine or trussing from the turkey. Begin carving by cutting through the skin between the leg and the body. Use a sharp carving knife or electric knife to separate the legs from the body and then remove the wings. To carve the breasts, make horizontal slices across the grain of the meat. Repeat this process for both breasts, making thin even slices.
Next, remove the drumsticks by cutting through the joint where they meet the body. To separate the thighs from the drumsticks, find the joint and cut through it. Arrange the carved turkey pieces on a serving platter, placing the slices of breast meat in the center and the legs and thighs around them.
3. Serving the turkey
Once the turkey is carved, it is ready to be served. Accompany it with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy. Remember to use a serving fork and carving knife to transfer the turkey from the platter onto individual plates. Enjoy your deliciously cooked turkey!
Questions and Answers
What is the recommended cooking time for a turkey in an air fryer oven?
The recommended cooking time for a turkey in an air fryer oven is approximately 20 minutes per pound. However, it’s always best to refer to the specific instructions provided with your air fryer oven, as cooking times may vary.
Can I cook a frozen turkey in an air fryer oven?
Yes, you can cook a frozen turkey in an air fryer oven. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. It is recommended to add an extra 50% to the cooking time when cooking a frozen turkey in an air fryer oven.
How do I know when the turkey is cooked in an air fryer oven?
You can check the doneness of the turkey by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the turkey should reach 165°F (74°C) to be considered fully cooked. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey, avoiding any bones. If the temperature has not reached 165°F (74°C), continue cooking for additional time until it does.
