Air fryer turkey breast steaks are perfect when you’re looking for a quick, easy, and completely fuss-free way to enjoy turkey without roasting a whole bird. They’re juicy, flavorful, and ready in under 15 minutes – perfect for a smaller Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, or whenever you’re craving that holiday turkey flavor.

Two turkey breast steaks topped with herbs and spices on a blue plate.

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Turkey Breast Steaks - Perfectly Portioned

Not every gathering calls for a huge roast turkey. When there’s just a few of us around the table, I want something easier (and quicker!). However, I don’t want to skip on the turkey tradition.

Sometimes I opt for an air fryer turkey crown. But when I want something even quicker and virtually effort free, I choose these turkey breast steaks – also called turkey cutlets. They’re slices of turkey breast meat, already portioned, lean, tender, and perfect for fast cooking.

Why Cook Turkey Breast Steaks in an Air Fryer

Cooking turkey steaks in the air fryer means less mess, no basting, and no fighting over oven space with the roast potatoes and veggies. Just a few ingredients, a drizzle of oil, and 10 minutes later, dinner’s on the table. It’s everything I love about a holiday turkey dinner but without the hassle of cooking a whole bird.

An air fryer gives you exactly what you want from turkey breast: tender, juicy meat with a lovely, seasoned crust – without drying it out. Plus it leaves your main oven free for all the sides, pies and hot desserts that make Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner feel special.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Turkey Breast Steaks

You only need a handful of ingredients to make these easy air fryer turkey cutlets:

Ingredients for turkey breast steaks including turkey cutlets, paprika, oil and salt and pepper.

• Turkey breast steaks (also known as turkey cutlets)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika (adds a gentle smoky flavor and golden color)

Note: Check out the recipe card for a full list of ingredients and quantities.

Method – How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Breast Steaks

Use this easy method to cook turkey steaks in air fryer

Prep the turkey
Pat the turkey steaks dry with kitchen paper. This helps the oil and seasoning stick and gives a better crust.
Season
Pop the steaks in a bowl, drizzle over olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. Use tongs to turn them until coated evenly.
Preheat
Heat your air fryer to 385°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Cook
Place the turkey steaks in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 5–10 minutes, turning halfway through.
Check doneness
Turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the steak – if it’s not there yet, give it another minute or two. Then serve and enjoy.

How Long to Air Fry Turkey Breast Steaks

Cooking time depends on the thickness of your turkey steaks. Thin cutlets may take around 5–6 minutes, while thicker ones can need closer to 10 minutes. Always check for a safe internal temperature before serving.

Other Flavors to Try – Make It Your Own

This simple seasoning mix is a great starting point, but turkey is versatile. Try:
• Garlic powder and Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist
• A little cayenne or chili powder for a mild kick
• A maple glaze brushed on during the last couple of minutes for sweet holiday vibes
• Lemon zest and thyme for a light, fresh flavor

What to Serve with Air Fryer Turkey Breast Steaks

Turkey steaks go with all your favorite holiday sides – think mashed or air fryer roasted potatoes, roast parsnips, roast carrots, air fryer green beans, roasted veggies, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy. They’re also great for an everyday dinner with a crisp salad and some crusty bread.

How to Store/Reheat Air Fryer Turkey Breast Steaks

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave – just enough to warm through without drying out. You can also slice them up cold for turkey sandwiches or wraps the next day.

Air Fryer Turkey Steaks

Fast, easy, and flavorful, these air fryer turkey breaststeaks are a brilliant alternative to roasting a whole bird. Perfect forsmaller holiday dinners or quick weeknight meals – juicy, seasoned, and readyin 10 minutes.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Christmas, thanksgiving

Prep Time: 3

Cook Time: 7

Makes: servings

Calories: 140kcal

Ingredients

2 turkey breast steaks
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Prep: Pat turkey breast steaks dry with kitchen paper.
Season: Place steaks in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika. Use tongs to coat evenly.
Preheat: Heat the air fryer to 385°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Cook: Lay turkey steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5–10 minutes, turning halfway through.
Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the steak reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. Cooking times will vary depending on thickness.

Notes

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and for guidance only.

Feel free to swap the paprika for your favorite herb or spice.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the air fryer for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition

What is your favorite turkey dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas? Let me know in the comments, I'd love to hear from you!