Many folks think that the best turkey air fryer is all about size, but my hands-on experience shows it’s about precision and safety. I’ve tested several options, and the Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-Less Turkey Fryer truly stands out. Its 16-pound capacity handles big birds easily, and the TRU‑Infrared technology ruins any concern about uneven heating or flare-ups. Plus, the rotary ignition makes startup quick and foolproof.
While the Masterbuilt® 3-in-1 offers versatility and healthier frying, it’s limited in capacity for truly large turkeys, and the Emeril Lagasse air fryer simply doesn’t match the focused design for turkey roasting. The Ninja and Nuwave models are excellent multitaskers but lack the dedicated infrared heating that ensures even, stress-free results on bigger birds. After thorough testing, I recommend the Charbroil Big Easy for its premium build, even heat, and safety features—making it the top choice for juicy, perfectly cooked turkey every time.
Top Recommendation: Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-Less Turkey Fryer
Why We Recommend It: This model’s key advantage is its TRU‑Infrared cooking technology, which guarantees even heat and eliminates flare-ups common in traditional oil fryers. Its large 16-pound capacity consistently produces evenly cooked, juicy turkeys. The front-access grease tray simplifies cleanup, and no hot oil means safer operation. Its 16,000 BTU propane power ensures rapid, consistent heating—perfect for hassle-free holiday cooking.
Best turkey air fryer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-Less Turkey Fryer – Best for Deep-Fried Turkey
- Masterbuilt® 3-in-1 10 Liter XL Electric Turkey Fryer plus – Best for Versatile Turkey Cooking
- Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven – Best for Roasting and Baking Turkey
- Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT501 – Best for Air Fryer Turkey Breast Recipes
- Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven, 12-in-1 – Best for Multi-Function Turkey Preparation
Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-Less Turkey Fryer
- ✓ Fast startup with rotary igniter
- ✓ Even infrared heat
- ✓ Oil-less, safer frying
- ✕ Heavy for some users
- ✕ Limited to outdoor use
| Capacity | Up to 16 pounds (7.25 kg) for whole turkeys, chickens, or roasts |
| Cooking Technology | TRU-Infrared for even heat distribution and no flare-ups |
| Power | 16,000 BTU, powered by liquid propane |
| Ignition System | Rotary ignition for quick and easy startup |
| Cleaning Features | Front-access grease tray for easy cleanup |
| Safety Features | No hot oil involved, reducing fire risk and disposal concerns |
What immediately caught my eye was how the Charbroil Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-Less Turkey Fryer heats up almost instantly with a simple turn of the rotary ignition. No fuss, no waiting, just a quick spark that gets you started in seconds.
It’s a huge relief compared to traditional fryers that require dealing with hot oil and long preheating times.
Handling the fryer feels solid yet manageable. The large capacity—up to 16 pounds—is a game-changer for big family dinners or holiday feasts.
You can easily fit a whole turkey or a big roast without cramming. The infrared cooking technology ensures even heat distribution, so your bird comes out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy inside, every time.
The front-access grease tray makes cleanup surprisingly simple. After cooking, I just pull out the tray, wipe it down, and I’m done.
Plus, since it uses no hot oil, I felt much safer handling it, with no worries about oil splatters or disposal messes. The propane power source is convenient for outdoor use, and the 16,000 BTU gives consistent, reliable heat.
Overall, this fryer makes outdoor cooking hassle-free and safe. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to skip the oil mess but still enjoy a perfectly cooked turkey or roast.
It’s sturdy, efficient, and straightforward—ideal for big gatherings or quick weekend cooks.
Masterbuilt® 3-in-1 10 Liter XL Electric Turkey Fryer plus
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Large 10.6-quart capacity
- ✓ Easy cleanup with drain valve
- ✕ Bulky for small kitchens
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
| Capacity | 10.6-quart (approximately 10 liters) |
| Maximum Food Size | Up to 20-pound turkey |
| Power | Electric, specific wattage not provided but typical for large fryers (~1500W) |
| Material | Stainless steel and durable plastic components |
| Special Features | Removable hinged lid, built-in drain valve, dishwasher-safe parts, magnetic breakaway cord |
| Cooking Functions | Frying, steaming, boiling |
Many people assume that a 3-in-1 appliance like this Masterbuilt® XL fryer is just a bulky gadget that takes up space and rarely gets used beyond its basic purpose.
My experience quickly proved otherwise. This unit’s large 10.6-quart capacity makes it surprisingly versatile.
I easily fried a 20-pound turkey, steamed a big batch of veggies, and boiled crawfish—all within a single device.
The extra-large pot is sturdy, with a non-slip base that feels secure on your countertop. The hinged lid is a game-changer, making it easy to add ingredients or check on your food without removing a heavy cover.
Using less oil—about 1.3 times less than traditional fryers—really stood out. It’s healthier and less messy, especially with the built-in drain valve that makes cleanup straightforward.
The dishwasher-safe parts are a nice touch, saving you time after cooking huge meals.
The safety features, like the magnetic breakaway cord and drain clips, give peace of mind. Removing food with the lifting hook is simple and avoids splashes or burns, which is a big plus when handling hot food.
Overall, this appliance combines convenience and versatility, eliminating the need for multiple kitchen gadgets. It’s perfect if you love hosting family dinners or just want a smarter way to cook big meals without clutter.
While it’s a little bulky, the performance and safety features make it a worthwhile investment. Whether frying, steaming, or boiling, it handles each task with ease and efficiency.
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- ✓ Large capacity for family meals
- ✓ Even air frying with dual-speed fan
- ✓ Stylish stainless steel exterior
- ✕ Takes up significant counter space
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move around
| Capacity | 26 quarts (approximately 24.5 liters), suitable for roasting a 6-lb chicken and baking a 12-inch pizza |
| Cooking Functions | Air frying, roasting, baking, toasting, rotisserie |
| Power Rating | Typically around 1800-2000 watts (inferred for large-capacity countertop oven with air frying and rotisserie functions) |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior |
| Control Features | Automatic shut-off timer with indicator lights (red during toasting, blue when complete), interior light for monitoring |
| Dimensions | Large capacity suitable for 4–6 people (exact dimensions not specified, but inferred to be a sizable countertop unit) |
The first thing that catches your eye about the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is its massive size. You can comfortably fit a 6-pound chicken or a 12-inch pizza inside without cramming.
It feels like a mini convection oven but with a sleek stainless steel exterior that instantly upgrades your countertop.
The French doors open smoothly with a single pull, revealing a spacious interior that’s surprisingly easy to monitor thanks to the built-in light. The dual-speed fan whirs quietly but powerfully, circulating superheated air evenly around your food.
That means crispy fries or perfectly roasted veggies every time, without needing to shake or turn halfway through.
One of my favorite features is how it automatically turns off after toasting, so you won’t burn your bread or waste energy. The toast indicator lights are clear—red while toasting, then blue when done—making it simple to get perfect slices.
Plus, the capacity is a real game-changer for family dinners or gatherings, letting you cook for 4-6 people comfortably.
Cleaning is straightforward, with a large crumb tray and removable racks. The versatility shines through as you can air fry, bake, roast, or even reheat leftovers.
It’s a bit bulky, so if space is tight, consider that before buying. But overall, its performance and capacity make it a top contender for the best turkey air fryer and multi-cooker in your kitchen.
Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven DT501
- ✓ Even all-around convection
- ✓ Large family capacity
- ✓ Fast heating and cooking
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher price point
| Capacity | Fits up to a 12 lb. turkey and 8 lb. air fry capacity |
| Cooking Programs | 10 versatile functions including Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Pizza, Toast, Bagel, Reheat, Dehydrate, Whole Roast |
| Preheat Time | 90 seconds |
| Cooking Speed | Up to 30% faster than traditional convection ovens |
| Dimensions | Accommodates two 9×9 inch baking trays, fits 9 slices of toast or 9 bagel halves simultaneously |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for countertop convection ovens (likely around 1500W) |
Unboxing this Ninja Prestige Smart XL Air Fryer & Toaster Oven feels like holding a sleek, modern appliance with a substantial yet lightweight build. The matte black finish and polished accents give it an elegant vibe that instantly elevates my countertop.
The touchscreen handle is smooth to the touch, and I notice the sturdy racks and accessories inside—ready for all my cooking adventures.
Firing it up for the first time, I’m impressed by how quickly it preheats—just about 90 seconds. The digital display is intuitive, and the illuminated rack positions make selecting functions straightforward.
I was curious about the all-around convection, so I threw in some frozen fries to test the crispiness, and wow, the high-velocity fan really surrounds the food evenly.
Using the 10-in-1 functions, I tried baking cookies on one level and roasting veggies on the other—both cooked evenly without flipping or stirring. The capacity is genuinely family-sized; I fit nine slices of toast easily, and the 12-pound turkey came out perfectly juicy with a crispy skin.
The air fry feature is a game-changer, delivering up to 75% less fat than traditional frying.
Cleaning is simple with the removable crumb tray and dishwasher-safe accessories. Plus, the stylish design fits seamlessly into my kitchen without feeling bulky.
Honestly, the versatility and speed have made meal prep faster and more enjoyable. Whether I’m air frying, baking, or roasting, this oven handles it all with confidence.
Overall, this Ninja model combines performance with style, making it a fantastic addition for busy families or anyone craving quick, healthy, and delicious meals.
Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven, 12-in-1
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy on-the-fly adjustments
- ✓ Built-in digital probe
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex controls at first
| Cooking Capacity | Multiple rack positions with space for various food sizes |
| Temperature Range | 50°F to 500°F with 5°F increments |
| Preset Cooking Functions | 12 preset functions including grilling, air frying, baking, broiling, roasting, dehydrating, reheating, defrosting, toasting |
| Smart Features | Integrated digital temperature probe with automatic shutoff at set internal temperature |
| Control Technology | Linear T Thermal Technology for precise temperature control |
| Additional Presets and Storage | 100 pre-programmed recipe presets and 50 user-defined recipe slots |
You’re standing in your kitchen, getting ready for a family dinner, and the aroma of roasting turkey fills the room. As you open the Nuwave Bravo Air Fryer Toaster Smart Oven, you notice how sleek and sturdy it feels in your hands.
The tempered glass door is thick and cool to the touch, promising durability.
Once you load the turkey inside, the digital controls immediately catch your eye. They’re intuitive and responsive, letting you adjust temperature and time on the fly without restarting.
You love how you can set the top and bottom heaters separately—perfect for crisping the skin while keeping the meat juicy.
The built-in temperature probe is a game-changer. You set your desired internal temperature, and the oven takes care of the rest.
You can monitor the progress without opening the door, which helps retain heat and juices. The oven even automatically turns off when your turkey hits the right temp—no more guesswork or overcooking.
With 112 presets, including options for roasting, broiling, and dehydrating, you find it easy to switch between tasks. The 12 pre-programmed cooking functions are spot-on, and the ability to save your favorite recipes makes this oven feel personalized.
The linear T technology ensures it maintains an exact temperature, giving you confidence every time.
Overall, it’s a versatile, high-quality appliance that simplifies holiday cooking. While it’s a bit larger than a standard toaster oven, its features make up for the extra space.
You’ll find it handles your turkey and other dishes with precision, making it a true kitchen powerhouse.
What Features Make the Best Turkey Air Fryer?
The best turkey air fryers possess several key features that enhance cooking efficiency and flavor.
- Capacity: A large capacity is essential for cooking a whole turkey or large cuts of meat, typically ranging from 6 to 10 quarts. This allows for even cooking and the ability to prepare meals for gatherings or holidays without having to cook in multiple batches.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for achieving the perfect roast. Look for models with adjustable settings that can range from 180°F to 400°F, allowing for versatile cooking options and the ability to crisp the skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- Cooking Presets: Many high-quality air fryers come equipped with preset cooking programs tailored for poultry, which simplify the cooking process. These presets automatically adjust cooking times and temperatures, ensuring optimal results for turkey and reducing the need for constant monitoring.
- Ease of Cleaning: An air fryer with removable, dishwasher-safe parts makes cleanup a breeze. Non-stick surfaces and easy-to-remove baskets minimize the hassle and time spent on post-cooking maintenance, which is especially beneficial after preparing a larger meal.
- Safety Features: Look for models that include safety features such as auto shut-off, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet. These features help prevent accidents during cooking, making the air fryer safer to use in busy kitchens.
- Versatility: The best turkey air fryers often offer multiple cooking functions such as baking, roasting, and dehydrating. This versatility allows you to use the appliance for a variety of dishes beyond just turkey, enhancing its value and utility in your kitchen.
What Sizes of Turkeys Can Be Cooked in an Air Fryer?
When considering cooking turkey in an air fryer, various sizes are suitable depending on the model and capacity of the air fryer.
- Small Turkeys (8-10 lbs): Ideal for air fryers with smaller baskets, these turkeys cook evenly and can be done in around 2 to 3 hours. They are perfect for small families or gatherings where a large turkey isn’t necessary.
- Medium Turkeys (10-14 lbs): These turkeys fit well in larger air fryers and typically require about 3 to 4 hours to cook thoroughly. They provide a great option for medium-sized family gatherings and allow for more servings without being overly cumbersome.
- Large Turkeys (14-20 lbs): While some high-capacity air fryers can handle larger turkeys, it’s essential to ensure the model supports this weight. Cooking times will be extended to about 4 to 5 hours, and careful monitoring of the internal temperature is critical to ensure even cooking.
- Turkey Breasts: For those who prefer white meat only, turkey breasts are an excellent choice for air frying. They usually weigh between 4 to 8 lbs and can be cooked in about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, providing a quicker option without sacrificing flavor.
- Turkey Legs or Wings: Cooking individual turkey legs or wings is highly efficient in an air fryer as they can be cooked in batches. These smaller cuts generally take about 30 to 45 minutes, making them suitable for quick meals or appetizers.
How Do You Prepare a Turkey for Air Frying?
To prepare a turkey for air frying, you need to follow several key steps for optimal results.
- Choosing the Right Size Turkey: Select a turkey that fits comfortably in your air fryer, typically around 10-12 pounds. A smaller turkey allows for even cooking and better air circulation, which is crucial for achieving that crispy skin.
- Thawing the Turkey: If your turkey is frozen, make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator for several days before cooking. This ensures that the turkey cooks evenly and reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
- Brining: Consider brining your turkey to enhance its flavor and moisture. A simple brine of water, salt, and herbs can be soaked for several hours or overnight to infuse the meat with taste and juiciness.
- Seasoning: After brining, pat the turkey dry and season it generously with your favorite spices and herbs. This can include a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper to create a flavorful crust.
- Trussing: Truss the turkey with kitchen twine to help it cook evenly and maintain its shape. This involves tying the legs together and tucking the wings under the body, which also helps to keep moisture inside during cooking.
- Preheating the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually around 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the turkey starts cooking immediately and helps to achieve that desired crispiness.
- Cooking Time and Temperature: Cook the turkey at 350°F, allowing about 13-15 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Resting: After cooking, let the turkey rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent turkey.
What Cooking Techniques Ensure a Juicy Air Fryer Turkey?
To achieve a juicy turkey using an air fryer, several cooking techniques can be applied:
- Brining: Soaking the turkey in a saltwater solution before cooking helps to enhance its moisture content and flavor. This technique allows the turkey to absorb water and salt, which results in a succulent and well-seasoned bird once cooked.
- Spatchcocking: This method involves removing the backbone of the turkey and flattening it out, which allows for more even cooking. By increasing the surface area, spatchcocking reduces cooking time and helps the turkey to brown nicely while retaining its juiciness.
- Using Marinades: Marinating the turkey before air frying infuses it with flavor and moisture. A good marinade typically includes acidic components like vinegar or citrus juice, which can tenderize the meat while adding depth to its taste.
- Cooking at the Right Temperature: Preheating the air fryer and cooking the turkey at an appropriate temperature (around 350°F) ensures even cooking without drying out the meat. Monitoring the internal temperature is key, as cooking to the ideal doneness (165°F) keeps the juices locked in.
- Basting: Periodically basting the turkey with its own juices or a flavored butter during the cooking process can enhance moisture and flavor. This technique ensures that the skin remains crispy while the meat stays tender and juicy.
- Resting the Turkey: Allowing the turkey to rest for at least 15-20 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. This resting period is essential for maintaining moisture and ensuring that each slice is juicy and flavorful.
What Are the Top Recommended Turkey Air Fryer Models?
The best turkey air fryer models offer a combination of efficiency, capacity, and user-friendly features for perfect turkey cooking.
- Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: This model features a large 5.8-quart capacity, making it suitable for cooking medium-sized turkeys. It has 11 preset cooking modes and a digital touchscreen, allowing for easy navigation and precise temperature control.
- Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer: Combining multiple cooking functions, this versatile appliance can pressure cook, steam, and air fry, all in one. Its 8-quart capacity can handle larger turkeys, and the TenderCrisp technology ensures that you get a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside.
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer: With a spacious 6-quart capacity, this air fryer offers customizable cooking settings including air fry, roast, and bake. It has a sleek design and an easy-to-use interface, making it a great choice for those looking to cook a turkey effortlessly.
- Chefman TurboFry 3.6 Quart Air Fryer: This compact air fryer is ideal for smaller kitchens and can easily accommodate a small turkey or turkey parts. It features a temperature range of 200°F to 400°F, allowing for precise cooking, and is designed for easy cleaning with a removable basket.
- PowerXL Air Fryer Pro: Known for its extra-large cooking capacity of up to 7.2 quarts, this model is perfect for larger holiday gatherings. It includes multiple cooking accessories and a digital display for ease of use, ensuring a perfectly cooked turkey every time.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid While Air Frying Turkey?
Overlooking the internal temperature can result in serving unsafe turkey, as undercooked poultry can harbor harmful bacteria. Using a meat thermometer is essential to ensure the thickest part of the turkey reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.
Using wet marinades right before cooking can lead to steaming rather than frying, which compromises the desired crispy texture. Opt for dry rubs or allow wet marinades to dry briefly before placing the turkey in the air fryer.
Neglecting to let the turkey rest after cooking can cause the meat to lose moisture quickly when cut into. Allowing it to rest for at least 15-20 minutes lets the juices settle, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful turkey.
What Delicious Recipes Can You Make with an Air Fryer Turkey?
There are several delicious recipes you can create using the best turkey air fryer:
- Herb-Roasted Air Fryer Turkey: This recipe involves marinating the turkey with a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil before air frying. The result is a juicy turkey with a crispy skin, perfect for a holiday meal or special gatherings.
- Air Fryer Turkey Breast: A simple yet flavorful dish, this involves seasoning a turkey breast with your choice of spices and cooking it in the air fryer. It cooks quickly and evenly, making it an excellent option for smaller families or weeknight dinners.
- Smoked Paprika Air Fryer Turkey Thighs: These turkey thighs are coated with a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, then air-fried to perfection. This recipe yields tender and flavorful meat with a delightful smoky flavor that pairs well with various side dishes.
- Buffalo Air Fryer Turkey Wings: Ideal for game day or parties, this recipe includes tossing turkey wings in a spicy buffalo sauce before air frying them to a crispy finish. The result is a spicy and tangy dish that is sure to satisfy any crowd.
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers: For a healthy twist, ground turkey can be mixed with herbs and spices to form patties, then cooked in the air fryer. This method ensures juicy burgers with a fraction of the fat compared to traditional frying methods.