Imagine a perfectly crispy, golden-brown turkey, juicy and flavorful, without the oven drama. Sounds like a dream, right? But when it comes to cooking a whole turkey, especially in an air fryer, the dream can quickly turn into a confusing reality. Many people wonder if their air fryer is big enough, how to get that amazing crisp, or even if it’s possible to cook a turkey at all in one of these countertop wonders.
The good news is, yes, you absolutely can! And we’re here to make it simple. This post will guide you through everything you need to know to successfully air fry a turkey. We’ll help you choose the right size air fryer, share essential tips for a delicious result, and even offer a few mouthwatering recipes to get you started.
Get ready to ditch the oven guesswork and discover the magic of air-fried turkey. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident and excited to try this amazing cooking method for your next holiday feast or special meal.
Our Top 5 Air Fryer For Turkey Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Air Fryer For Turkey Detailed Reviews
1. Charbroil® The Big Easy® TRU-Infrared™ Cooking Technology Propane Gas Stainless Steel Oil-Less Turkey Fryer
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for a whole new way to cook your favorite meats with the Charbroil® The Big Easy® TRU-Infrared™ Cooking Technology Propane Gas Stainless Steel Oil-Less Turkey Fryer. This fryer makes cooking big meals simple and safe. You can cook a whole turkey up to 16 pounds, or even chickens and roasts. It uses special TRU-Infrared™ cooking technology that spreads heat evenly, so your food cooks perfectly every time. Plus, there are no messy flare-ups to worry about.
What We Like:
- You can fry whole turkeys, chickens, or roasts up to 16 pounds.
- TRU-Infrared™ cooking technology provides even heat and prevents flare-ups.
- It starts up easily with a simple turn of a knob thanks to the rotary ignition.
- Cleaning is a breeze with the front-access grease tray.
- It’s much safer because there’s no hot oil, saving you money and hassle.
- It’s powered by propane with a 16,000 BTU burner.
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it cooks great, some users might wish for more advanced temperature controls.
- The cooking basket capacity is fixed, so you can’t cook multiple smaller items at once if they don’t fit together.
This oil-less fryer is a fantastic option for anyone who wants delicious, perfectly cooked poultry without the mess and danger of traditional deep frying. It simplifies outdoor cooking and delivers great results.
2. 32QT Extra Large Air Fryer
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to cook like a pro with the 32QT Extra Large Air Fryer! This amazing appliance is a 19-in-1 combo, meaning it can do almost anything in the kitchen. It’s an air fryer, toaster oven, rotisserie, and dehydrator all in one. Plus, it’s big enough to fit a 13-inch pizza, making it perfect for family meals.
What We Like:
- It’s super big! You can cook a whole family meal at once. It fits a 13-inch pizza, 9 slices of toast, a 10-pound turkey, or a 6-pound chicken.
- It cooks food fast and makes it crispy with hardly any oil. The 1800W power and 360° hot air circulation are great.
- It has 19 different cooking modes, so you can air fry, bake, roast, toast, dehydrate, and more. The dual cook feature lets you combine two functions for even better meals.
- It comes with a cookbook and 6 helpful accessories like a fry basket and rotisserie spit. Everything is easy to clean, and most parts are dishwasher safe.
- The company promises to solve any problems within 24 hours, which is really good customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description doesn’t mention the exact dimensions of the appliance, so it might be hard to know if it fits on your counter.
- While it has many features, learning how to use all 19+ functions might take a little time.
This air fryer toaster oven combo is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It makes cooking easier and more delicious.
3. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to transform your kitchen with the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo. This isn’t just any oven; it’s a super versatile appliance that can handle almost any cooking task you throw at it. From making crispy snacks for the kids to roasting a whole chicken for a family dinner, this oven does it all with style. Its sleek stainless steel finish and elegant French doors make it a beautiful addition to any countertop.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly versatile, offering 24 cooking functions, so you can air fry, roast, bake, toast, and much more.
- The digital controls are easy to use, and the 25 cooking presets take the guesswork out of preparing different meals.
- The dual-speed fan circulates superheated air for perfectly crispy results, just like a professional fryer.
- Its large 26-quart capacity is perfect for families or small gatherings, easily fitting a 12-inch pizza or a 6-pound rotisserie chicken.
- The automatic shut-off for toasting means no more burnt bread, and the indicator light clearly shows when it’s done.
- The French doors open with one pull, and the interior light lets you easily check on your food.
- It comes with 7 helpful accessories to expand your cooking options.
What Could Be Improved:
- While spacious, it does take up a good amount of counter space.
- Some users might find the sheer number of functions a bit overwhelming at first.
This Emeril Lagasse oven is a fantastic all-in-one solution for busy households. It simplifies cooking and delivers delicious results, making it a worthwhile investment for any home chef.
4. Aeitto® 32-Quart PRO Large Air Fryer Oven
Rating: 8.9/10
Meet the Aeitto® 32-Quart PRO Large Air Fryer Oven, a kitchen powerhouse that does it all! This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a toaster oven combo with a rotisserie, dehydrator, and so much more. It’s designed to make your cooking easier and more delicious.
What We Like:
- It’s super big! The 32-quart capacity is great for feeding a family of 2 to 6 people. You can even fit a 13-inch pizza or 9 slices of toast inside.
- This one appliance replaces many! It air fries, bakes, roasts, broils, toasts, dehydrates, and even does rotisserie. It saves so much space on your counter.
- Your food will be perfectly cooked. The hot air circulates all around, making food crispy on the outside and juicy inside, using less oil. The double glass door keeps the heat in, so it cooks faster.
- It comes with everything you need. You get a baking pan, fry basket, oven rack, rotisserie parts, and a crumb tray. A cookbook with 30 recipes is included, and all the parts are easy to clean, even in the dishwasher.
- The company offers good support. If you have any problems, they promise to help you within 24 working hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many functions, mastering all 19 presets might take a little practice.
- The large size, while great for capacity, does take up a decent amount of counter space.
The Aeitto® 32-Quart PRO Air Fryer Oven is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering versatility and convenience for busy families. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to simplify their cooking and enjoy healthier, tastier meals.
5. NESCO ITR-01-13
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of dry, overcooked turkey? The NESCO ITR-01-13 Digital Infrared Upright Turkey Roaster promises a juicy, perfectly cooked bird every time, and it does it all without a drop of oil! This sleek black roaster boasts a powerful 1425-watt heating system and advanced digital controls, making holiday cooking a breeze. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a tender, flavorful turkey that’s ready in a fraction of the time.
What We Like:
- Cooks a big 18 lb. turkey in just 2 hours. That’s super fast!
- You can pick from high or low heat settings with easy electronic controls.
- A special center heating element cooks the turkey evenly all around.
- The glass viewing cover lets you watch your turkey cook.
- It has easy-grip handles and a removable stand with a drip tray. This makes cleaning up much simpler.
- The roaster is made of strong stainless steel and has a non-stick inside.
- It cooks without any oil, making your turkey healthier.
What Could Be Improved:
- The upright design might make it a bit taller than some standard ovens.
- While it cooks fast, some people prefer the slower, more traditional roasting method for flavor.
This NESCO roaster is a fantastic way to cook a delicious turkey quickly and easily. It’s a great addition to any kitchen, especially for busy holidays.
Air Fryer for Turkey: Your Crispy, Juicy Guide
Thinking about cooking a turkey in an air fryer? It’s a fantastic way to get a super crispy skin and juicy meat without all the oil of deep frying. But not all air fryers are built for a whole bird. This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an air fryer to cook turkey, keep these important features in mind:
1. Capacity
This is the most important thing. Turkeys are big! You need an air fryer basket or a rotisserie style that can fit your turkey. Smaller air fryers won’t work for a whole bird. Look for models that advertise fitting a turkey or have a large capacity, usually 6 quarts or more. Some air fryers are specifically designed for poultry and come with a rotisserie spit.
2. Wattage and Power
Higher wattage means the air fryer heats up faster and cooks more evenly. For a turkey, you’ll want something with at least 1500 watts. This will help ensure your turkey cooks through without drying out.
3. Temperature Range and Presets
A good temperature range is important for cooking different parts of the turkey. Most air fryers go up to 400°F (200°C). Look for models with specific turkey or poultry presets. These can make cooking much easier.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Turkey can be messy! You want an air fryer with removable, dishwasher-safe parts. A non-stick coating on the basket or tray is a big plus.
5. Extra Functions
Some air fryers come with extra features like rotisserie, dehydrating, or even baking. While not essential for just turkey, these can add value if you plan to use your air fryer for other meals.
Important Materials
The materials used in an air fryer affect its durability and how it cooks.
- Stainless Steel: Often used for the outer casing and interior. It’s strong, easy to clean, and looks good. It also helps with heat distribution.
- BPA-Free Plastic: Used for the housing and control panels. Make sure it’s high-quality and heat-resistant.
- Non-Stick Coating: Usually found on the basket and trays. This is usually Teflon or ceramic. Ceramic is generally considered more durable and healthier.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one air fryer better than another for cooking turkey?
- Even Air Circulation: Good air fryers have powerful fans and smart airflow designs. This ensures the heat reaches all parts of the turkey for crispy skin and even cooking. Poor circulation leads to unevenly cooked spots.
- Build Quality: A sturdy build means the air fryer will last longer. Cheaper models might feel flimsy. Check reviews to see how well they hold up.
- Digital vs. Manual Controls: Digital controls with clear displays and presets usually offer more precise cooking and are easier to use. Manual knobs can be less accurate.
- Noise Level: Some air fryers can be quite loud. If this bothers you, look for models that are known to be quieter.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using an air fryer for turkey is different from a traditional oven.
- Smaller Turkeys or Turkey Parts: Most air fryers are best suited for smaller turkeys (under 10-12 pounds) or turkey parts like breasts or drumsticks. A whole 20-pound bird likely won’t fit.
- Faster Cooking Time: Air fryers cook faster than ovens. You’ll need to adjust cooking times. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Crispy Skin: This is the biggest win! The hot air circulation creates incredibly crispy, golden-brown skin.
- Less Preheating: Air fryers preheat much faster than ovens, saving you time.
- Great for Small Households: If you don’t need a giant turkey, an air fryer is perfect for a smaller, quick holiday meal or even just a few turkey legs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I cook a whole turkey in any air fryer?
A: No. You need a large-capacity air fryer or one specifically designed for poultry. Most standard air fryers are too small for a whole turkey.
Q: What size turkey can fit in a large air fryer?
A: Typically, a 10-12 pound turkey can fit in a large air fryer (6 quarts or more). Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact dimensions.
Q: How long does it take to cook a turkey in an air fryer?
A: It cooks faster than an oven. A good rule of thumb is about 12-15 minutes per pound, but this can vary. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
Q: Will the turkey be dry in an air fryer?
A: Not if done correctly. The fast cooking and circulating air can actually keep the turkey moist. Basting and brining can also help.
Q: Is an air fryer turkey as good as an oven-roasted turkey?
A: Many people prefer air fryer turkey for its super crispy skin. The meat is also very juicy. It’s a different, but delicious, result.
Q: Do I need to add oil to the turkey?
A: You can lightly brush the turkey with oil for extra crispiness and browning, but it’s not strictly necessary as the air fryer circulates hot air.
Q: How do I prevent the turkey from burning in an air fryer?
A: Monitor it closely. If parts start to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil. Using a meat thermometer is key to knowing when it’s done.
Q: What are the best air fryers for cooking turkey?
A: Look for models with large capacities (6 quarts+), high wattage (1500W+), and good reviews for even cooking. Brands like Ninja, Cosori, and Cuisinart often have suitable models.
Q: Can I cook turkey parts like breasts or legs in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Air fryers are excellent for turkey parts. They cook quickly and get very crispy.
Q: Is cleaning an air fryer after cooking a turkey difficult?
A: It can be messy, but much easier if the basket and tray are dishwasher-safe. Pre-soaking can also help loosen any stuck-on bits.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!