When it comes to cooking a delicious and satisfying meal, few things beat a perfectly cooked turkey. But why settle for just any old roasted or baked turkey when you can take it to the next level with a crispy, golden-brown crust? In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
From classic comfort food-inspired dishes like Southern-Style Buttermilk Fried Turkey and Classic Fried Turkey with Gravy, to more adventurous options like Korean Gochujang Glazed Fried Turkey and Thai Basil Chili Fried Turkey, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next family gathering or just want to mix things up in the kitchen, these crispy turkey fried recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Southern-Style Buttermilk Fried Turkey
Classic Southern comfort food meets tender turkey in this mouthwatering recipe. Crispy, golden-brown breading and tangy buttermilk make for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Add turkey to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove turkey from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry turkey for about 3-1/2 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Let turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes to fry the turkey.
Cajun Spiced Deep-Fried Turkey
Get ready to spice up your holiday meal with this mouth-watering Cajun Spiced Deep-Fried Turkey! This recipe combines the classic flavors of the Bayou with a crispy, golden-brown crust for an unforgettable main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: your favorite seasonings and spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Dredge the turkey in buttermilk, then roll it in flour, shaking off any excess.
5. Lower the turkey into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the turkey from the oil with a slotted spoon and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Garlic Herb Butter Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday turkey game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter, the pungency of garlic, and the brightness of herbs. This Garlic Herb Butter Fried Turkey is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the garlic herb butter mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 3-1/2 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 to 4 hours
Korean Gochujang Glazed Fried Turkey
Korean Gochujang Glazed Fried Turkey: A Sweet and Spicy Twist on Classic Turkey Day Fare
Get ready to spice up your holiday with this unique and delicious Korean-inspired take on traditional fried turkey. The sweet and spicy glaze made with gochujang, a fermented soybean paste, adds a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup gochujang
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the turkey to the glaze and coat evenly.
4. Place the turkey on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan.
5. Roast the turkey for 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Classic Fried Turkey with Gravy
This recipe yields a juicy, crispy fried turkey with a rich and savory gravy perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously Southern-style feast in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gravy ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
4. Dip turkey in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Fry turkey for 3-1/2 to 4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey drippings
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk together flour and turkey drippings until smooth, then add broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes per pound (depending on size of turkey)
Spicy Honey Mustard Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and spicy twist on traditional fried turkey. This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey mustard with a kick of heat, perfect for those who like a little excitement in their meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup honey mustard sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup spicy honey (such as habanero or chipotle-infused honey)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey mustard sauce and spicy honey until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dip the turkey in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then in the honey mustard mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Lemon Pepper Fried Turkey Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful turkey tenders, infused with the brightness of lemon pepper seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each turkey strip into the flour mixture, then into beaten eggs, and finally into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
4. Fry turkey tenders in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Fried Turkey Wings
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these crispy and smoky turkey wings! This recipe combines the richness of paprika with a hint of smokiness, perfect for game day gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds turkey wings
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each turkey wing into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dredge wings in buttermilk, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Fry the wings for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asian Five-Spice Fried Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this flavorful twist on traditional turkey. This recipe combines the savory spices of Asian five-spice powder with crispy fried goodness, creating a truly unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Asian five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto the turkey breast and thighs.
4. Dip the turkey in flour, shaking off excess, then panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the turkey in hot oil (350°F/175°C) for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Panko Fried Turkey Cutlets
Crispy Panko Fried Turkey Cutlets: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Recipe!
This recipe yields crispy and juicy turkey cutlets, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. By using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, the crust stays crispy even after cooking.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey breast cutlets
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
2. In a separate dish, beat the egg with lemon juice.
3. Dip each turkey cutlet in the egg mixture, then coat in panko breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated turkey cutlets for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Buffalo Hot Sauce Fried Turkey Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Buffalo hot sauce fried turkey bites! This easy recipe combines the flavors of buffalo wings and crispy fried chicken to create a unique and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buffalo hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add buffalo hot sauce and mix until just combined.
4. Divide mixture into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
5. Dip each ball in beaten egg, then roll in panko breadcrumbs to coat.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry turkey bites for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Fried Turkey Legs
Elevate your turkey leg game with this aromatic and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of rosemary with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the turkey legs evenly with the garlic-rosemary mixture.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Fried Turkey
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering Sweet and Tangy BBQ Fried Turkey recipe! This twist on traditional fried turkey combines the sweetness of brown sugar and honey with the tanginess of BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy fried coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and 1/2 cup of flour.
3. Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper; mix until combined.
4. Dip turkey in buttermilk mixture, then roll in remaining 1 1/2 cups of flour to coat evenly.
5. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound or until golden brown.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar and honey. Brush mixture all over the turkey.
7. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the top of the turkey; serve warm.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes
Jerk Seasoned Fried Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this Caribbean-inspired twist on a classic dish. This jerk seasoned fried turkey breast is crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs turkey breast
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip turkey breast in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry turkey breast for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
7. Sprinkle with jerk seasoning and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Parmesan Crusted Fried Turkey Strips
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these crispy and savory Parmesan Crusted Fried Turkey Strips! Perfect for a quick lunch or as a satisfying appetizer, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey breast strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each turkey strip into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally coat with Parmesan cheese.
4. Fry the coated turkey strips for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Glazed Fried Turkey Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Maple Glazed Fried Turkey Nuggets! A sweet and savory twist on classic turkey nuggets, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, egg, maple syrup, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape into small nugget-sized pieces.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the turkey nuggets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on size of nuggets.
Thai Basil Chili Fried Turkey
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this innovative twist on traditional turkey. This recipe combines the classic comfort food with the vibrant, aromatic spices and herbs of Thai cuisine, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chili flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together oil, garlic, ginger, curry paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2-1/2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Thai basil and chili flakes (if using). Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours
Blackened Cajun Fried Turkey Thighs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these crispy and spicy blackened Cajun fried turkey thighs! This recipe combines the bold flavors of the Bayou with the tender juiciness of turkey, all in one mouth-watering dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each turkey thigh in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry turkey thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Transfer turkey to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a crispy and golden culinary adventure with these 18 mouthwatering turkey fried recipes! From classic Southern-style buttermilk fried turkey to spicy Korean gochujang glazed fried turkey, and from smoky paprika fried turkey wings to sweet and tangy BBQ fried turkey, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover the perfect blend of herbs, spices, and flavors that will elevate your turkey game.
