Ultimate Guide to Oven Air Fryer Turkey Recipe: Perfectly Crispy & Juicy Every Time
#### IntroductionCooking a turkey can be a daunting task, especially during the holiday season. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can achiev……
#### Introduction
Cooking a turkey can be a daunting task, especially during the holiday season. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a perfectly cooked bird that is both crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This guide will walk you through the process of preparing and cooking an oven air fryer turkey recipe that will impress your family and friends.
#### Why Choose an Oven Air Fryer?
An oven air fryer combines the functionality of a traditional oven with the efficiency of an air fryer. This innovative appliance circulates hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy exterior while retaining moisture within. It’s a healthier alternative to deep frying and significantly reduces cooking time.
#### Ingredients for Oven Air Fryer Turkey Recipe
To prepare your oven air fryer turkey, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and sage)
- Optional: lemon and onion for stuffing
#### Preparation Steps
1. **Thaw the Turkey**: If your turkey is frozen, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking. A general rule is to allow 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.
2. **Preheat the Oven Air Fryer**: Set your oven air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the turkey.
3. **Prepare the Turkey**: Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
4. **Seasoning**: Rub the olive oil or melted butter all over the turkey. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor. If desired, stuff the cavity with fresh herbs, lemon, and onion for added aroma.
#### Cooking the Turkey
1. **Place in the Air Fryer**: Carefully place the seasoned turkey breast-side up in the basket of the oven air fryer. Ensure there is enough space around the turkey for air circulation.
2. **Cooking Time**: Cook the turkey for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound. For a 10-pound turkey, this will take about 2 to 2.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
3. **Basting**: About halfway through the cooking time, you can baste the turkey with the juices that have collected in the bottom of the air fryer. This will help to enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist.
4. **Resting**: Once the turkey is done cooking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful turkey.
#### Serving Suggestions
Carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green beans. Don’t forget to save the leftovers for delicious turkey sandwiches or soups!
#### Conclusion
The oven air fryer turkey recipe is a game-changer for holiday cooking. It simplifies the process while delivering exceptional results. With a crispy skin and juicy meat, this method will make your turkey the star of the feast. Enjoy your culinary adventure and savor every bite of your perfectly cooked turkey!