Tired of dry, bland turkey or struggling with oven space during holiday feasts? Imagine a world where your turkey comes out perfectly golden, incredibly juicy, and with that irresistible crispy skin, all with less fuss and less oil. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s not! The secret weapon? A powerful air fryer designed for larger roasts.
Air fryers have completely revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier, faster, and often more delicious way to prepare our favorite foods. And when it comes to big birds like turkey, they’re truly a game-changer. Whether you’re cooking for a smaller gathering, want a super-crispy turkey breast, or even a full holiday bird, finding the best air fryer for turkey can make all the difference.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the top 9 air fryers capable of handling your turkey needs. Say goodbye to soggy skin and hello to a culinary triumph!
Our Top Picks for the Best Air Fryer for Turkey
Let’s dive into the air fryers that can help you achieve turkey perfection. We’ve focused on capacity, cooking performance, and user-friendliness to ensure you pick the right fit for your kitchen.
Charbroil® The Big Easy® TRU-Infrared™ Cooking Technology
If outdoor cooking and an oil-less, safer frying experience for your whole turkey are what you’re after, the Charbroil Big Easy is in a league of its own. This isn’t your typical indoor countertop air fryer; it’s a dedicated outdoor turkey fryer that uses TRU-Infrared technology to deliver juicy results with a wonderfully crispy skin, all without the hassle and danger of hot oil. It’s perfect for those who want to fry a turkey without the mess and disposal issues of traditional deep frying.
- CAPACITY: Fry whole turkeys, chicken, or roasts up to 16 pounds
- COOKING TECHNOLOGY: TRU‑Infrared cooking technology for even heat and no flare-ups
- RELIABLE: Rotary ignition for quick and easy starts with the turn of a knob
- CLEANING: Front-access grease tray for easy clean-up
- SAFER: No hot oil means safer frying, less money spent and no stress about disposal
- POWER: 16,000 BTU and conveniently powered by liquid propane
- WARRANTY: 1 year limited warranty
Pros:
– Eliminates the dangers and mess of oil-based turkey frying.
– Achieves incredibly crispy skin while keeping meat juicy.
– Large capacity for whole turkeys up to 16 lbs.
– Easy to clean with a front-access grease tray.
Cons:
– Requires liquid propane and is for outdoor use only.
– Single-function appliance, not as versatile as indoor models.
User Impressions: Users rave about how easy and safe it is to cook a whole turkey, praising the consistently delicious and crispy results without the oily mess. It’s often called the “best way to fry a turkey” by its fans.
See it on Amazon here
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster
Elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic and culinary capabilities with the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer. This multi-cooker combo isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a versatile countertop oven that can roast, bake, toast, and much more. Its elegant French doors and stainless steel exterior make it a stunning addition to any kitchen, while its generous 26-quart capacity can handle roasts and even a 6-lb chicken on the rotisserie, making it a strong contender for the best air fryer for turkey breasts or smaller holiday birds.
- A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal, from air frying quick after-school snacks to roasting for large gatherings.
- PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Oven turns off automatically when the toast countdown timer ends – no burnt toast!
- 25 COOKING PRE-SETS: Provide a variety of cooking methods: Ribs, Defrost, Bake, Toast, Chicken, Pizza, Pastry, Slow Cook, Roast, Reheat, and Keep Warm.
- DUAL-SPEED FAN: Golden fried crisping at its finest with 360º superheated air circulation for your homemade cooking.
- 26-QUART CAPACITY: Suitable for preparing food for 4–6 people with capacity to rotisserie a 6-lb chicken, bake a 12” pizza.
- STAINLESS STEEL EXTERIOR: Provides a beautiful aesthetic to any kitchen, taking your party hosting to the next level. Elegant French doors open with a single pull.
Pros:
– Stylish design with elegant French doors and stainless steel finish.
– Extremely versatile with 25 cooking presets and multi-cooker functions.
– Large 26-quart capacity suitable for family meals and smaller roasts.
– Dual-speed fan ensures consistent crisping and even cooking.
Cons:
– While large, a 6lb chicken rotisserie might not fit a large whole turkey.
– Takes up significant counter space.
User Impressions: Customers love the appliance’s beautiful design and its ability to handle a wide range of cooking tasks. They frequently praise its even cooking and how it helps streamline meal preparation for families.
See it on Amazon here
CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie
The CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie is an all-in-one countertop powerhouse designed to simplify healthy cooking. With a spacious 10-liter capacity and rotisserie function, it’s ideal for making crispy air-fried dishes, perfectly roasted chicken, or even a smaller turkey breast. The intuitive touch control screen and 17 presets make it incredibly easy to use, letting you cook delicious meals with 98% less oil than traditional methods.
- Versatile countertop cooking: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, or roast to crispy perfection in one convenient appliance.
- Cook faster: No need to preheat like traditional ovens. This all-in-one convection oven uses rapid air heating elements to cook fast, even, and crispy food.
- Healthy cooking made easy: Make healthy meals using 98% less oil than traditional fryers.
- Simplified set-up: Anyone can cook perfect meals in minutes with 17 preset options and an easy-to-use capacitive touch control screen.
- All-inclusive: Includes three air flow racks, stainless steel rotisserie oven spit with retrieval tool, and a drip tray.
- Family-size meals: Make meals for the family with the extra-large 10-Liter capacity.
- Monitor cooking progress: The interior lights and extra-large air fryer oven window allow you to check your food’s cooking progress.
- Minimal clean-up: The removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts keep cleanup fast and simple.
Pros:
– Highly versatile with 5-in-1 functions including rotisserie.
– Fast cooking without the need for preheating.
– Promotes healthier cooking with significantly less oil.
– User-friendly with 17 presets and a touch screen.
– Easy to monitor food with an interior light and large window.
Cons:
– 10-liter capacity is great for chicken or turkey breast, but likely too small for a whole large turkey.
– May not fully replace a conventional oven for all tasks.
User Impressions: Users love the Chefman for its multi-functionality and ease of use. The rotisserie feature is a big hit, and many appreciate how quickly it cooks and how simple cleanup is, making it a popular choice for daily meals.
See it on Amazon here
Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro and Convection
For those serious about their culinary pursuits, the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a premium, incredibly powerful choice. Featuring the Element iQ System, it intelligently steers power to exactly where it’s needed for precise cooking. With a huge 21.5 x 17.1 x 12.7 inch interior, it boasts an impressive 14-pound turkey capacity, making it a top contender for the best air fryer for turkey for larger families or holiday meals. Its super convection technology ensures faster, more even cooking and crispy, golden results, truly elevating your air frying and roasting game.
- ELEMENT iQ SYSTEM: 5 independent quartz elements and smart algorithms for tailored cooking.
- AIR FRY AND DEHYDRATE SETTINGS: Higher temperatures with super convection for crispy air-fried foods.
- SUPER CONVECTION TECHNOLOGY: 2-speed convection fan for fast and even heat distribution.
- 13 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Toast, Bagel, Broil, Bake, Roast, Warm, Pizza, Proof, Air Fry, Reheat, Cookies, Slow Cook, and Dehydrate.
- EXTRA LARGE CAPACITY: Fits a 14-pound turkey, 9 slices of bread, or a 5 qt Dutch oven.
- INTERIOR OVEN LIGHT: Automatically turns on, allowing you to monitor cooking progress.
- LCD DISPLAY: Easy access to functions and precise cooking time countdown.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: 13-inch Pizza Pan, two oven racks, broil rack, enamel roasting pan, and mesh basket rack.
Pros:
– Exceptional 14-pound turkey capacity, perfect for large gatherings.
– Advanced Element iQ System for precise temperature control and even cooking.
– Highly versatile with 13 cooking functions, including air fry and dehydrate.
– Super convection technology ensures faster and crispier results.
– Durable build and integrated interior light for convenience.
Cons:
– Premium price point, which might be a barrier for some.
– Large footprint on the countertop.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro for its outstanding performance and versatility. Many consider it a superior alternative to their main oven for many tasks, especially roasting and air frying large items, noting its precision and consistent results.
See it on Amazon here
Ninja Air Fryer & Toaster Oven | Prestige Smart XL
When it comes to family-sized meals and powerful cooking, the Ninja Air Fryer & Toaster Oven Prestige Smart XL truly shines. Its Smart Surround Convection system ensures food is completely surrounded by high-velocity heated air, guaranteeing an all-around crisp. What makes this one of the best air fryers for turkey is its massive XL capacity, able to fit and cook a substantial 12 lb turkey! With 10-in-1 functionality and a speedy 90-second preheat, it makes preparing large, delicious meals incredibly efficient.
- SMART SURROUND CONVECTION: High velocity fan and rear heat source completely surrounding food for all-around crisp.
- 2 LEVEL EVEN COOKING: Even cooking on 2 levels with no rotation, flipping, or shaking.
- 10-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Includes 10 versatile cooking programs: Air Fry, Air Roast, Broil, Bake, Whole Roast, Pizza. Toast, Bagel, Reheat, Dehydrate.
- XL FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: Fits up to a 12 lb. Turkey and allows for up to 8 lb. air fry capacity.
- QUICK FAMILY MEALS: 90-second oven preheat time and up to 30% faster cooking versus a full-size convection oven.
- PRESTIGE DESIGN: Superior performance with elegant style that fits in any home.
- AIR FRY HEALTHY MEALS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods.
- DIGITAL DISPLAY HANDLE: The optimal oven rack positions will illuminate based on the selected function.
Pros:
– Impressive 12 lb turkey capacity, ideal for holiday roasts.
– Smart Surround Convection ensures even cooking and crisping.
– Fast 90-second preheat significantly reduces cooking time.
– Versatile 10-in-1 functions replace multiple appliances.
– Healthy cooking with less fat than traditional frying.
Cons:
– Large size might be an issue for smaller kitchens.
– Digital display on the handle might take some getting used to.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the Ninja Smart XL’s large capacity and its ability to cook food quickly and evenly. Many highlight its versatility and the significant time savings compared to conventional ovens, making it a go-to for family dinners and larger cooking projects.
See it on Amazon here
32QT Extra Large Air Fryer, 19-In-1 Air Fryer Toaster
If you’re looking for sheer capacity and an overwhelming array of functions, the 32QT Extra Large Air Fryer is hard to beat. This beast of an appliance can handle up to a 10 lbs turkey, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings. With 19+N presets and an innovative dual cook function, you can combine cooking methods for complex recipes effortlessly. It’s essentially an air fryer, toaster, rotisserie, dehydrator, and convection oven all rolled into one, saving you valuable countertop space (by replacing multiple gadgets, that is!).
- 32QT Extra-Large Capacity: 4 layers even cooking finish whole family meal at once. Fit in 13-inch pizza, 9 slice toasts, 10lbs turkey, 6lbs chicken.
- Quick, No-oil, Crispy: 1800W high power generate 360°hot airflow produces crispier exterior and moist tender interior with little to no oil.
- 19+N Presets Available: One machine to fulfill air fry, bake, roast, broil, toast, dehydrate, rotisserie, defrost, warm, proof, and so on.
- Dual Cook Function: Innovate to combine any two functions in preset for complex recipes.
- Cookbook & 6 Accessories: Come with a cookbook including 30 effortless recipes. All accessories are detachable and dishwasher safe.
Pros:
– Massive 32QT capacity, easily accommodating a 10 lb turkey.
– Extremely versatile with 19+N cooking presets and functions.
– Dual cook function offers advanced cooking possibilities.
– Fast and even cooking with 360° hot airflow and 1800W power.
– Comes with a useful cookbook and dishwasher-safe accessories.
Cons:
– Its large size requires substantial counter space.
– The sheer number of functions might be overwhelming for some users initially.
User Impressions: Reviewers are impressed by the vast capacity and the multitude of functions this air fryer offers. It’s frequently recommended for large families or those who entertain often, with many appreciating its ability to replace several kitchen appliances.
See it on Amazon here
COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Fast Turbo
While not designed for a whole large turkey, the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 is a fantastic choice for smaller turkeys, turkey breasts, or sides. Its innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉, ensuring incredibly crispy, juicy results in record time. This 6-quart model offers professional-grade versatility with a unique 5-fan speed system and operates whisper-quietly, making it a joy to use for everyday meals and healthier fried foods with up to 95% less oil.
- Taste Upgrade: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉.
- Texture Upgrade: Advanced airflow and precise temperature control deliver evenly cooked side dishes with perfectly balanced texture.
- Pro Upgrade: Cosori’s unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°–450°F temperature control.
- Time Upgrade: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology helps speed up cooking to save time.
- Capacity Upgrade: The 6-quart square basket offers a wider, deeper design for family meals in one go.
- Experience Upgrade: Operates at less than 53 dB even on high fan speed for whisper-quiet performance.
- 95% Less Oil: Enjoy the same crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 95% less oil.
- Dishwasher-Safe: Nonstick cooking basket and detachable accessories make cleaning a breeze.
Pros:
– Extremely fast cooking with TurboBlaze Technology.
– Whisper-quiet operation for a more pleasant kitchen experience.
– Achieves exceptional crispiness with significantly less oil.
– Compact 6-quart design is space-saving yet spacious for its class.
– Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons:
– Not suitable for cooking a whole large turkey, better for turkey breasts or pieces.
– Fewer specific presets compared to larger, multi-function ovens.
User Impressions: Users love the COSORI TurboBlaze for its incredible speed, quiet operation, and the consistently crispy results it delivers. It’s a favorite for daily meals and smaller batch cooking, with many praising its efficiency and ease of cleanup.
See it on Amazon here
Aeitto® 32-Quart PRO Large Air Fryer Oven| Toaster Oven
Meet the Aeitto 32-Quart PRO Large Air Fryer Oven, another formidable contender for tackling substantial meals, including a generous 10 lbs roast turkey. This 6-in-1 powerhouse combines the functions of an air fryer, toaster, rotisserie, dehydrator, pizza grill, and convection oven, truly maximizing your countertop space. With 18+N presets and an innovative dual cook function, you can effortlessly create complex, flavorful dishes for a family of 2-6. Its 360° hot airflow ensures fast, even cooking with that desirable crispy exterior and moist interior, all with less oil.
- 32QT/30L MAX Capacity for Family: 4-level even cooking, fast & easily prepare meals for a family of 2-6. Fit in 13-inch pizza, 9 slices of toast, 5 lbs rotisserie chicken, 10 lbs roast turkey.
- 18+N Presets & 6 Machines Combo: One machine to fulfill air fry, bake, roast, broil, toast, dehydrate, rotisserie, defrost, warm, proof, and so on.
- Fast & Even cooking, Less-oil, Crispy: The convection fan of air fryer generate 360°hot airflow produces crispier exterior and moist tender interior with less oil.
- Dual Cook Function: Enables you to combine any two functions in preset.
- 6 Upgraded Accessories & Cookbook: Sufficient accessories for various meals: Upgraded enamel baking pan-easy to clean, fry basket, oven rack, rotisserie spit fork, rotisserie lift, and crumb tray.
Pros:
– Impressive 32QT capacity perfect for a 10 lb turkey or large family meals.
– Extremely versatile with 18+N presets and 6-in-1 functionality.
– Dual cook function for advanced recipe execution.
– Efficient 360° hot airflow ensures quick, crispy, and healthy results.
– Comes with a comprehensive set of dishwasher-safe accessories and a cookbook.
Cons:
– Its large size might overwhelm smaller kitchen countertops.
– Learning all the different presets and functions may take time.
User Impressions: Users commend the Aeitto 32-Quart PRO for its massive capacity and incredible versatility, highlighting its ability to handle everything from toast to a full roast. Many appreciate the included accessories and the overall convenience it brings to their cooking.
See it on Amazon here
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity, Air
For those with limited counter space or who primarily want to air fry turkey breasts, thighs, or smaller roasts, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 is an excellent, compact choice. Don’t let its size fool you; its Air Crisp Technology uses 400℉ superheated air to surround food, delivering unbelievably hot, crispy results with little to no oil. It’s perfect for whipping up guilt-free fried foods, from frozen to crispy, in just minutes, making it ideal for quick, healthy meals.
- AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air surrounds food for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
- LARGE CAPACITY: The 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate fit up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods.
- FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods in just minutes for an extra-crispy finish.
- SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest air fryer design allows you to save even more space on your countertop without compromising capacity.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The basket and crisper plate are both nonstick for easy cleaning.
Pros:
– Compact, space-saving design perfect for smaller kitchens.
– Air Crisp Technology delivers exceptionally crispy results with minimal oil.
– Versatile 4-in-1 functions for everyday cooking.
– Quickly cooks frozen foods to a crispy finish.
– Easy to clean with nonstick and dishwasher-safe components.
Cons:
– 5-QT capacity is too small for a whole large turkey, best for parts or small roasts.
– Fewer functions compared to multi-oven air fryers.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Ninja Air Fryer Pro for its compact size, quick cooking times, and how easy it is to clean. It’s a popular choice for individuals or small families looking for a reliable, efficient air fryer for everyday use and achieving perfectly crispy results on smaller items.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Frying Turkey
Q1: Can you really cook a whole turkey in an air fryer?
A1: Yes, absolutely! Many larger air fryer ovens are designed with enough capacity to fit a whole turkey, typically ranging from 8 to 14 pounds. It’s crucial to check the specific model’s capacity before purchasing.
Q2: How big of an air fryer do I need for a whole turkey?
A2: For a whole turkey, you’ll generally need an air fryer with a capacity of at least 26 quarts (or around 10-12 liters) for smaller birds (e.g., 6-8 lbs). For larger turkeys (10-14 lbs), look for models in the 30-32 quart range. Basket-style air fryers are typically too small for whole turkeys, but excellent for turkey breasts or legs.
Q3: What are the benefits of air frying a turkey compared to a traditional oven?
A3: Air frying a turkey often results in incredibly crispy skin and juicy meat due to the rapid, circulating hot air. It’s typically faster than a conventional oven, uses less oil (making it healthier), and frees up your main oven for other dishes, especially useful during holidays.
Q4: How long does it take to air fry a turkey?
A4: Cooking time varies based on the turkey’s size and your air fryer’s wattage. A 10-pound turkey might take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, while smaller turkey breasts could be done in 30-60 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q5: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for turkey?
A5: While some air fryers boast no-preheat cooking, for optimal results with a turkey, preheating is highly recommended. It ensures the air fryer is at the correct temperature from the start, promoting even cooking and crispy skin.
Q6: Can I air fry a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey?
A6: Yes! Air frying turkey breasts is incredibly popular. It’s a fantastic way to get perfectly cooked, juicy breast meat with crispy skin without needing a huge appliance. Many smaller air fryers (5-7 quart models) are perfect for this.
Q7: How do I get crispy skin on my air-fried turkey?
A7: For super crispy skin, pat the turkey thoroughly dry before seasoning. A light brushing of oil (or melted butter) and a generous seasoning of salt and pepper helps. Ensure there’s good airflow around the bird, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer. High heat at the end of cooking can also help crisp up the skin.
Q8: Can I use aluminum foil in an air fryer when cooking turkey?
A8: Yes, you can use aluminum foil in an air fryer. It’s often used to line the basket for easier cleanup or to cover parts of the turkey (like the breast) if they start browning too quickly. Just ensure the foil doesn’t block airflow significantly or touch the heating element.
Choosing the best air fryer for turkey depends on your specific needs: whether you’re roasting a whole bird for a feast, preparing juicy turkey breasts for weeknight dinners, or looking for an outdoor oil-less fryer experience. We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision and leads you to countless delicious, perfectly cooked turkey meals!