If you have been searching for a simple yet show-stopping way to prepare turkey, you are going to fall in love with this Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe. This dish boasts a perfectly juicy interior wrapped in the crispy, golden skin infused with fragrant garlic and fresh rosemary. The magic of the air fryer simplifies the cooking process while locking in all the classic flavors you crave. Whether you’re hosting a weeknight dinner or an intimate holiday feast, this recipe promises fuss-free preparation with maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is all you need to create a flavorful masterpiece. Each component plays a key role, from the tender turkey breast providing a hearty base, to the fresh rosemary and garlic adding aromatic depth, finished off by butter and olive oil that ensure rich taste and crispy skin.
- 4 pound boneless skin-on turkey breast: The star of the dish, offering juicy and tender meat with flavorful skin.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps meld the garlic and rosemary flavors into the meat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): One part for moisture and crisping skin, the other for greasing the air fryer basket.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives the turkey its pungent, savory punch.
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (minced): Adds an earthy, piney note that pairs perfectly with poultry.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and depth without overpowering.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer
Start by spraying your air fryer basket with olive oil spray. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures the turkey skin crisps up beautifully. A well-prepped basket means less hassle when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Dry the Turkey Breast
Pat your turkey breast dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning and butter mixture adhere better while also aiding in achieving a crispy, golden skin.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Rosemary Butter
Mix together the butter, one tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, minced rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This rich, fragrant mixture is the heart of the recipe, ready to infuse the turkey with bold savory flavors.
Step 4: Season Under and Over the Skin
Gently lift the skin away from the meat and rub about three-quarters of the butter mixture underneath it. This ensures the seasonings directly penetrate the turkey for juicy, flavorful bites. Then spread the remaining butter mixture over the outside of the skin, guaranteeing every inch is coated.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil for Extra Crisp
Drizzle the final tablespoon of olive oil all over the turkey breast and gently rub it in. This step helps the skin develop that enviable crispy texture that makes the dish truly special when air fried.
Step 6: Cook the Turkey
Place the turkey in the air fryer basket skin side up and cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 35 minutes. Use an instant read thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 160 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly cooked meat that stays juicy.
Step 7: Let the Turkey Rest
Once cooked, remove the turkey and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the internal temperature to rise to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This resting period is crucial for tenderness and flavor.
Step 8: Slice and Enjoy!
After resting, slice the turkey breast as desired and serve immediately. The aroma itself will have everyone eager to dig in and savor this outstanding Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle some extra fresh rosemary on top or add a few thin lemon slices around the serving platter. These garnishes brighten the dish with fresh, herbal, and citrus notes that complement the rich turkey beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Each side provides balance, texture, and color to your plate, creating a comforting and complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the sliced turkey on a rustic wooden board alongside a homemade cranberry sauce or a tangy mustard-aioli dip. Arranging slices alongside roasted garlic cloves and sprigs of rosemary not only looks stunning but invites your guests to customize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover turkey in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will keep well for up to three days, providing you delicious follow-up meals without extra effort.
Freezing
If you want to keep the turkey longer, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag. Slice the turkey before freezing for easier thawing and portion control. It will maintain quality for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat leftover turkey gently to avoid drying out the meat. The best method is to warm it in the oven at low heat or in a covered skillet with a splash of broth to restore moisture. This way, your Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe remains tender and flavorful even the next day.
FAQs
Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
It’s best to use fully thawed turkey breast for even cooking and optimal texture. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours before preparing this recipe.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
Dried rosemary can substitute in a pinch, but use about half the amount since it is more concentrated. Fresh rosemary provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
How do I know when the turkey is done in the air fryer?
The safest and most accurate way is by using an instant read thermometer. The turkey is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, then rests to 165 degrees.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
You can, but be mindful of the size of your air fryer basket. Cook turkey breasts one at a time or in batches to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
Is it necessary to lift the skin when applying the butter mixture?
Yes, rubbing most of the butter mixture under the skin infuses the meat directly and helps keep it extra juicy while adding flavor. It creates a barrier that traps moisture inside.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe has quickly become a treasured favorite in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will be in yours too. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy succulent turkey with vibrant garlic and rosemary flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and watch how this simple recipe earns a permanent spot on your go-to meal list.
Print
Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Air Fryer Garlic Rosemary Turkey Breast recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful turkey breast with fragrant garlic and rosemary infused under crispy skin. Perfect for a quick and easy main dish that cooks evenly in the air fryer in just over half an hour. The turkey is seasoned generously and rested to retain moisture, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 1 4-pound boneless skin-on turkey breast
Seasoning and Marinade
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (minced)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray and set it aside to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Dry the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure the skin crisps up nicely during cooking.
- Make the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the butter, one tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Apply Butter Mixture Under the Skin: Gently lift the skin away from the meat and rub about three-quarters of the butter mixture evenly under the skin, coating the meat for maximum flavor.
- Coat the Skin: Rub the remaining quarter of the butter mixture over the outside of the turkey skin to enhance crispiness and flavor.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the turkey breast with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and rub it all over the surface to further promote browning and help the seasonings adhere.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Place the turkey breast skin side up into the prepared air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 160°F (71°C).
- Rest the Turkey: Remove the turkey from the air fryer and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the internal temperature to rise to 165°F (74°C).
- Slice and Serve: Slice the turkey breast as desired and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Notes
- Ensure the turkey breast is dry before applying the butter mixture for the crispiest skin.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to guarantee the turkey is cooked safely and to your desired degree of doneness.
- Letting the turkey rest is crucial to maintaining juiciness and allowing the temperature to finish rising.
- Leftover turkey can be used in sandwiches or salads for added convenience.
- If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
