With the holidays just around the corner, many people are starting to plan their festive meals. One dish that is often the centerpiece of a holiday feast is the turkey. Traditionally, turkeys are roasted in the oven for hours on end, but did you know that you can also cook a turkey in an air fryer? Yes, you read that right! Cooking a turkey in an air fryer is not only possible, but it also produces a deliciously moist and flavorful bird. In this ultimate guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to cook a turkey in an air fryer, so that you can impress your guests with a perfectly cooked turkey this holiday season.
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you get started, you will need to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s a list of what you will need:
-A turkey (size will depend on the number of people you plan to serve)
-Olive oil or melted butter
-Salt and pepper
-Garlic powder
-Onion powder
-Paprika
-Any other seasonings or herbs of your choice to flavor the turkey
-An air fryer large enough to fit your turkey
-Aluminum foil
-A meat thermometer
-A sharp knife or carving set
Preparing the Turkey
The first step in cooking a turkey in an air fryer is to properly prepare the bird. Start by removing the turkey from its packaging and patting it dry with paper towels. This will help to remove any excess moisture and ensure a crispy skin.
Next, season the turkey generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and any other seasonings or herbs that you prefer. Rub the seasonings all over the bird, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.
Getting the Air Fryer Ready
Now that your turkey is seasoned and ready to go, it’s time to prepare the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it is nice and hot when you place the turkey inside.
While the air fryer is preheating, line the bottom of the fryer basket with aluminum foil. This will help to catch any drippings and make for easier clean-up later on. You can also place a rack in the basket to elevate the turkey slightly, allowing for more even cooking.
Cooking the Turkey
Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the seasoned turkey breast-side up into the air fryer basket. Make sure that it fits comfortably and is not too cramped. If needed, you can remove the oven rack from the air fryer to create more space.
Close the air fryer and set the timer to cook the turkey. As a general rule of thumb, cook the turkey for about 20 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 12-pound turkey, you would cook it for approximately 4 hours. However, it’s always a good idea to check the turkey’s internal temperature to ensure that it is cooked through.
Checking the Turkey’s Temperature
To check the turkey’s temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer using oven mitts or tongs. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey’s thigh, making sure that it does not touch the bone. The thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) when the turkey is fully cooked.
If the turkey has not reached the desired temperature, place it back in the air fryer and continue cooking in 10-15 minute intervals until it reaches 165°F (74°C). Remember to keep an eye on the turkey’s skin during this time. If it begins to get too brown, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.
Letting the Turkey Rest
Once the turkey has reached the desired temperature, carefully transfer it to a cutting board. Tent the turkey loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the turkey, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy bird.
During this resting period, you can use the time to prepare any side dishes or gravy to accompany your turkey. Once the turkey has rested, it’s time to carve and serve!
Carving and Serving the Turkey
Using a sharp knife or carving set, begin by removing the legs and thighs from the turkey. Then, carve the breast meat by making thin slices against the grain. Arrange the carved meat on a serving platter, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Serve the turkey alongside your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to pour some delicious homemade gravy over the turkey for added flavor!
Conclusion
Cooking a turkey in an air fryer may not be the most traditional method, but it certainly offers a quick and easy way to achieve a perfectly cooked bird. By following this ultimate guide, you will be able to impress your guests with a moist and flavorful turkey this holiday season. So, why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious a turkey cooked in an air fryer can be? Happy cooking!