5 from 54 votes

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

This air fryer turkey breast is incredibly juicy and tender. It's loaded with a flavorful spice rub, and brined in buttermilk, herbs, and hot sauce.

Prep Time10

Cook Time40

Marinate Time12

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 398kcal

Author: Davinah

Add all of the brine ingredients except the turkey into a large bowl. Whisk to incorporate.
Add the turkey breast into the brine and marinate overnight, and up to 24 hours.
Remove the turkey breast from the brine and rinse off the excess brine liquid with cold water.

Preheat the air fryer to 350F.
Pat the turkey breast dry.
Add the turkey breast to a large bowl with the oil. Add the spice rub and season both sides of the turkey breast thoroughly.
Air fry the turkey skin side down for 30 minutes, or until it reaches 150F in the thickest part of the meat.
Flip the turkey breast and continue air frying at 350F for 10-15 minutes to crisp the skin. The turkey should reach 160F.
Remove the turkey breast from the air fryer and rest for 10 minutes.

Check the turkey package first: If your turkey breast is already brined or injected with a salt solution, skip the homemade brine and go straight to the spice rub and air frying steps.
Use a thermometer: Turkey breast can dry out quickly if it overcooks. Check the thickest part and remove it from the air fryer around 160°F, then let it rest so it can rise to 165°F.
Dry the skin well: After brining and rinsing, pat the turkey completely dry before adding the oil and spices. This helps the skin brown instead of steam.
Choose a turkey breast that fits: A split, bone-in turkey breast fits better in most air fryer baskets than a whole turkey breast.
Store leftovers properly: Keep leftover turkey breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently: Reheat turkey in the air fryer at 300°F until warmed through. Add a little butter, broth, or gravy over the slices to help keep them moist.