Turkey Injection Recipe for Air Fryer: A Juicy and Flavorful

Cooking turkey in an air fryer is a game-changer. Not only does it cut down on cooking time, but it also ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Injecting the turkey with a marinade takes it to another level by infusing flavor deep into the meat. Whether you’re preparing this for Thanksgiving or a weeknight dinner, this turkey injection recipe for the air fryer will impress your family and friends.

Marinating a turkey through injection is a surefire way to ensure every bite bursts with flavor. Using an air fryer means you get perfectly cooked, golden-brown turkey with less oil and mess. This recipe walks you through making a savory, herb-infused marinade, injecting it into the turkey, and achieving tender, juicy meat with a crisp finish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 22g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fiber: 0g

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Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Active Time: 45-60 minutes (depending on turkey size)
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4-6

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (large enough to fit a turkey or turkey breast)
• Meat injector syringe
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cooking thermometer
• Aluminum foil

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Ingredients

For the Injection Marinade:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Turkey:

• 4-5 lb turkey or turkey breast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for an extra golden crust)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Turkey:

1. If using a frozen turkey or turkey breast, ensure it is fully thawed.
2. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer.

2. Make the Injection Marinade:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings until well combined.
2. Pour the marinade into a clean meat injector syringe, ensuring no clumps block the needle.

3. Inject the Turkey:

1. Insert the meat injector into the thickest parts of the turkey (breast, thighs, and drumsticks). Slowly inject the marinade into multiple spots, distributing the flavor evenly.
2. Use your hands to gently massage the turkey, helping the marinade spread within the meat.

4. Season the Exterior:

1. Rub the turkey with olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
2. Sprinkle the surface with salt, black pepper, and paprika for added flavor and color.

5. Air Fry the Turkey:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Place the turkey breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Ensure it fits snugly but with room for air circulation.
3. Cook for 25 minutes, then flip the turkey breast-side up. Cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.

6. Rest and Serve:

1. Remove the turkey from the air fryer and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes to lock in the juices.
2. Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce.

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Pro Tips for Success

1. Avoid Overcrowding: If your air fryer is small, consider using a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey.
2. Monitor Temperature: A cooking thermometer is essential for ensuring the turkey is fully cooked but not overdone.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the marinade by adding citrus juice, fresh herbs, or hot sauce for a spicier kick.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Turkey?

Air frying turkey ensures a quicker cooking process compared to traditional roasting. It also delivers crispy skin and moist meat without requiring large amounts of oil. Plus, cleanup is easier, making it an ideal option for both special occasions and everyday meals.

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Conclusion

This turkey injection recipe for the air fryer is a flavorful and convenient way to prepare a tender, juicy turkey with minimal hassle. The injection marinade infuses every bite with delicious, savory flavor, while the air fryer ensures perfectly crisp skin. With the right preparation and a few handy tips, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.