How to Cook Turkey Ribs in an Air Fryer
Learn how to cook turkey ribs in an air fryer to perfection! Enjoy crispy, tender ribs in just 35 minutes with this easy, healthy, and delicious recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- Turkey Ribs: About 2 pounds of fresh or thawed turkey ribs trimmed and patted dry.
- Seasoning Blend:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for that rich, smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder a must-have for savory depth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder adds a subtle sweetness
- ½ teaspoon black pepper a touch of mild heat
- 1 teaspoon salt to enhance every bite
- Oil Spray: A light mist of olive oil or avocado oil to achieve the perfect crispy finish.
- Optional Flavor Boosters:
- A pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Freshly chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch.
- Dipping Sauce Optional: Barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch for added indulgence.
Tips for Ingredient Prep:
- Choose Quality Ribs: Opt for fresh turkey ribs whenever possible. If using frozen make sure they’re fully thawed and pat them dry to help the seasoning stick better.
- Mix Your Spices: Combine the seasonings in a small bowl before rubbing them onto the ribs. This ensures an even distribution of flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Oil: A light spray of oil is key to achieving that golden crispy exterior in the air fryer.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Your Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps lock in the ribs' natural juices.
- Season the Ribs
- Combine your spices (smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt) in a small bowl.
- Pat the turkey ribs dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
- Rub the seasoning mix generously over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides. Let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
- Lightly spray the basket with olive oil or avocado oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the ribs in a single layer, leaving enough space between them for proper air circulation.
- Cook the Ribs
- Place the seasoned ribs into the air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- Flip the ribs halfway through cooking to ensure both sides brown evenly.
- Check for Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the ribs has reached 165°F (74°C). This is the safe temperature for turkey and ensures perfectly cooked ribs.
- If you prefer extra crispiness, cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Rest and Serve
- Remove the ribs from the air fryer and allow them to rest for about 3 minutes. Resting helps retain the juices, making each bite more flavorful.
- Serve the ribs immediately with your choice of dipping sauces and sides for a complete, mouthwatering meal.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the ribs in batches if needed. Overcrowding prevents even cooking and crisping.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For deeper flavor, marinate the ribs in your favorite sauce or spice blend for a few hours before cooking.
- Boost Crispiness: Lightly brush the ribs with oil before seasoning to achieve an extra golden, crispy finish.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 580mg