Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast is a simple way to enjoy a flavorful and healthier version of this classic Indian dish. Using an air fryer makes it easy to cook turkey breast quickly while keeping it juicy and tender. The spices and yogurt marinade create a delicious taste that will impress your family and friends. Plus, cooking this dish is more convenient and requires less oil than traditional frying methods.
How to Make Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast
Ingredients:
- 1 split skin-on, bone-in turkey breast (about 1 3/4 lb.)
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
- 1 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. sweet paprika
- 2 tsp. ground turmeric
- 2 tsp. minced fresh ginger (from a 1" piece)
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- Olive oil cooking spray
Directions:
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and season it all over with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, garlic, paprika, turmeric, ginger, cumin, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.
- Spread the yogurt mixture all over the turkey, ensuring it is well-coated. Let the turkey stand at room temperature for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Lightly coat an air-fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the turkey in the basket.
- Cook at 350°F, flipping the turkey every 10 minutes. Cook until the turkey is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F, approximately 35 to 40 minutes.
- Let the turkey rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast
Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast can be served with a side of basmati rice or warm naan bread. You can also pair it with a fresh cucumber salad or cooling yogurt sauce to balance the spices. This dish is perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings.
How to Store Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast
To store leftovers, place the sliced turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the turkey in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast
- Make sure the turkey is dry before seasoning for better crispiness.
- Let the turkey sit in the marinade longer if you have the time; this enhances the flavor.
- For extra crunch, you can increase the cooking time slightly by a few minutes, but monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
Variation
You can experiment with the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs, such as coriander or garam masala, to change the flavor profile. Also, try using skinless turkey breast for a lighter option.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless turkey breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless turkey breast, but adjust the cooking time since it may cook faster.
2. Is it necessary to let the turkey rest before slicing?
Yes, letting the turkey rest is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and coat the turkey breast ahead of time. Just let it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying.
