Easy Turkey Breast Cutlets Air Fryer Recipe – Crispy, Healthy
Turkey breast cutlets are a versatile, lean, and healthy protein option, perfect for quick dinners or meal prepping. When cooked in an air fryer, these cutlets turn out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, with a perfectly crispy exterior—no deep frying required! This air fryer recipe is easy, fast, and ideal for those who want a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, looking for a low-fat alternative to fried chicken, or creating a protein-packed meal for your busy week, these turkey breast cutlets cooked in an air fryer will become your go-to recipe.
This recipe combines simple ingredients with a few spices, making it perfect for any cuisine style or dietary preference. It’s gluten-free, keto-friendly, and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste. The result is a perfectly golden, flavorful cutlet that pairs well with various sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
Recipe Details
- Cuisines: American, Healthy Eating, Low-Carb
- Course: Main Dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 220 kcal
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Shallow Bowls (for dredging)
- Tongs
- Measuring Spoons
- Meat Mallet (optional)
- Parchment Paper or Spray Oil
Ingredients
- Turkey Breast Cutlets: 4 pieces (about 1 lb total)
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (or non-stick cooking spray)
- Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup (use gluten-free if needed)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 2 tbsp
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Eggs: 2 large
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- If your turkey breast cutlets are thick, use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
- In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures the turkey cutlets cook evenly and develop a crispy crust.
3. Coat the Turkey Cutlets
- Dip each cutlet into the whisked eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to coat evenly. Repeat for all cutlets.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the coated cutlets in a single layer in the basket, leaving some space between them. If needed, cook in batches.
5. Cook the Turkey Cutlets
- Air fry the turkey cutlets at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They’re done when the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, let the turkey cutlets rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these turkey cutlets with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a low-carb meal.
- Serve them over mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting, hearty dish.
- Add them to a salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, healthy option.
Tips for Success
- Prevent Overcrowding: Cook the cutlets in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space for air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Crispier Coating: Lightly spray the tops of the cutlets with olive oil before air frying to enhance the crispiness.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste. Add cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for an herby flavor.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air fryers are a game-changer for cooking lean proteins like turkey breast cutlets. They use hot air circulation to create a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil, making this method healthier than traditional frying. Additionally, air fryers cook food quickly and evenly, reducing the overall cooking time while maintaining moisture in the meat.
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.