Name: Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless turkey breast; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon tandoori masala powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic paste; 1 teaspoon ginger paste; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Hey y'all! If you're craving something bold, juicy, and downright irresistible, this Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast is your ticket to flavor town. It's a fusion of tender turkey, vibrant Indian spices, and the magic of air frying for a dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or healthy meal prep. Plus, it's quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress your taste buds and your guests. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast

It’s packed with classic tandoori flavor but lightened up for healthy eating.
Ready in under 40 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Air frying keeps the turkey breast incredibly juicy and tender.
Simple ingredients with maximum impact—no need for a tandoor oven!
Great for meal prep or serving at gatherings for a flavorful centerpiece.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast

1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless turkey breast
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons tandoori masala (find it here)
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons grated ginger
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking spray (for air fryer basket)
Lemon wedges & fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions: How to Make Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marination: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Step 1: Marinate the Turkey Breast

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala, garam masala, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, pepper, ginger, garlic, and olive oil. Whisk to form a thick marinade. Pat the turkey breast dry, then coat it thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3-4 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Air Fry the Tandoori Turkey Breast

Place the marinated turkey breast in the basket. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is slightly charred.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Remove the turkey breast and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Notes & Helpful Cooking Tips

For maximum juiciness, don’t skip the resting time after air frying.
Use a digital meat thermometer (here’s why) to guarantee perfect doneness.
If your turkey breast is thicker than 2 inches, add 3-5 minutes to the cook time and check for doneness.

Variations: Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast Alternatives

Spicy Tandoori: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for more heat.
Herb-Infused: Stir chopped fresh mint or cilantro into the marinade for a herbal twist.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut yogurt for Greek yogurt for a lactose-free version.

Required Equipment for Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast

Air fryer (5-quart or larger recommended)
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Tongs
Cooking spray
Digital meat thermometer

Storage Instructions & Shelf Life

Store leftover Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.

Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or a fresh cucumber salad.
Pair with cooling raita or a zesty mint chutney for contrast.
Use leftovers in wraps, salads, or grain bowls for quick lunches.

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast

Pat the turkey breast dry before marinating to help the spices adhere.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—this helps ensure even crisping (see more air fryer tips).
Let the marinated turkey come to room temperature for 15 minutes before air frying for even cooking.

FAQ: Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast

Can I use chicken breast instead of turkey?: Absolutely! Just reduce the cook time to 12-15 minutes for chicken breasts of similar size.
Do I need to use food coloring for authentic tandoori color?: Nope—smoked paprika and turmeric give a beautiful color naturally, so food coloring isn't necessary.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?: Yes! Marinate the turkey up to 24 hours ahead, and air fry just before serving for best results.

Air Fryer Tandoori Turkey Breast