Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and you’re probably already thinking about what to serve as the centerpiece of your holiday feast. For many families, a traditional roasted turkey is the way to go, but why not mix things up this year with a crispy fried turkey instead? The extra crunch adds a whole new level of flavor and texture to the classic dish, and there are countless ways to season and glaze it for added deliciousness.
Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and Cajun-inspired or sweet and maple-glazed, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 crispy fried turkey recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic Southern-style frying to innovative twists like buffalo sauce and Asian five-spice, there’s something for every palate and preference.
Classic Southern Fried Turkey
Get ready to taste the essence of Southern comfort food with this classic fried turkey recipe, perfect for special occasions and family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) 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 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip the turkey in the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
4. Place the coated turkey on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
6. Carefully place the turkey into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the turkey from the oil with tongs and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total cooking time, including frying and resting.
Cajun Spiced Deep-Fried Turkey
Experience the bold flavors of Cajun country with this show-stopping turkey recipe, perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, 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 45-50 minutes, depending on the size of your turkey.
Buttermilk Brined Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday dinner game with this Buttermilk Brined Fried Turkey recipe, offering an unparalleled level of flavor and moisture. The buttermilk brine infuses the turkey with tanginess and tenderness, while the crispy fried exterior adds a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large container, whisk together buttermilk, kosher salt, and brown sugar until dissolved.
2. Submerge the turkey in the brine solution, making sure it’s fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the size of your turkey.
Garlic Herb Infused Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this savory Garlic Herb Infused Fried Turkey recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and herbs with crispy fried skin, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– All-purpose flour, for dredging
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or turkey fryer to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dip the floured turkey in buttermilk, then coat in a thin layer of breadcrumbs.
6. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours
Peppercorn Crusted Fried Turkey
A twist on traditional fried turkey, this recipe adds a bold peppercorn crust for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup black peppercorns, coarsely ground
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together ground peppercorns, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
4. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dip the floured turkey in buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Coat the turkey evenly in the peppercorn mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Carefully place the coated turkey in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes
Smoky Paprika Fried Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoky paprika, crispy fried coating, and juicy turkey. Perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners!
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Buttermilk (for brining), optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dip the floured turkey in buttermilk (if using), then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Carefully place the turkey in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 45-60 minutes total, depending on turkey size.
Spicy Cajun Fried Turkey Wings
Add a spicy kick to your turkey wings with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and crispy fried goodness. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual meals, these Spicy Cajun Fried Turkey Wings are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey wings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip turkey wings in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry turkey wings for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Fried Turkey Breast
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fried turkey breast, this recipe adds a hint of honey to the glaze for added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) turkey breast
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast in a shallow dish and brush the honey glaze all over the surface.
4. Dredge the glazed turkey breast in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the turkey breast until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the fried turkey breast to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Lemon Pepper Fried Turkey Legs
A flavorful twist on traditional fried turkey legs, this recipe adds a bright and citrusy kick with lemon pepper seasoning. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge turkey legs in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured turkey legs in lemon zest and juice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Fry turkey legs for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and let cool on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crispy coating, chill the breaded turkey legs in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.
– Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Rosemary and Thyme Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic and flavorful fried turkey recipe, infused with the earthy notes of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– All-purpose flour, for dredging
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or turkey fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Carefully place 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 from oil and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Jerk Seasoned Fried Turkey
This Caribbean-inspired recipe adds a flavorful twist to traditional fried turkey. A blend of jerk seasoning, garlic, and citrus zest creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, garlic, lime juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Dredge the turkey in a light coating of flour, shaking off excess.
5. Carefully place the turkey in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the turkey from the oil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the turkey.
Asian Five-Spice Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday turkey with a flavorful twist! This Asian-inspired recipe combines the classic bird with aromatic spices and crispy fried crust, perfect for a unique Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Asian five-spice powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Dredge the turkey in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the turkey for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Transfer the turkey to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Maple Bourbon Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday dinner with this sweet and savory maple bourbon fried turkey recipe. This mouthwatering dish combines the richness of bourbon-infused syrup with the crunch of a crispy fried exterior, all wrapped up in a juicy turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Add the turkey to the marinade and coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the turkey from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Fry the turkey in batches if necessary, until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per pound).
6. Drain on paper towels and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes per pound.
Buffalo Style Fried Turkey Bites
Spicy Twist on a Classic: Get ready to elevate your snack game with Buffalo Style Fried Turkey Bites!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, Frank’s RedHot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and egg. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 bites.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).
5. Fry the turkey bites in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total (including frying time).
Serve with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce, garnished with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese if desired!
Parmesan Herb Crusted Fried Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this crispy, flavorful recipe that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese and the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) whole turkey breast or tenderloins
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Season the turkey with salt and pepper.
4. Dip the turkey in the Parmesan herb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated turkey on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Tea Brined Fried Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving turkey with a twist of sweet tea flavor in this unique brining and frying recipe. The sweetness of the tea balances perfectly with the savory flavors of the turkey, making it a game-changer for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 cups sweet tea (brewed strong)
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large container, combine sweet tea, kosher salt, and brown sugar to create the brine.
2. Submerge the turkey in the brine, making sure it’s fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Dredge the turkey in buttermilk, then coat in a mixture of 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon paprika.
5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Blackened Fried Turkey with Creole Sauce
Get ready to elevate your turkey game with this crispy and flavorful blackened fried turkey, served with a tangy Creole sauce. Perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Creole sauce ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup ketchup
+ 1/4 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
+ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
+ 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk and blackening seasoning.
2. Dredge turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured turkey in buttermilk mixture, then coat in flour again.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry turkey until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. While turkey is frying, mix Creole sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve fried turkey with Creole sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes for frying, plus additional time if using an internal thermometer to ensure turkey reaches 165°F (74°C).
BBQ Rubbed Fried Turkey Drumsticks
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful turkey drumsticks, rubbed with a blend of sweet and spicy BBQ spices. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a quick appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey drumsticks
– 1/2 cup BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
– 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 or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub each drumstick with BBQ rub, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Dredge drumsticks in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Fry drumsticks for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving turkey game with these 18 crispy fried turkey recipes! From classic Southern fried turkey to Cajun-spiced deep-fried turkey, and from garlic herb-infused fried turkey to maple bourbon fried turkey, there’s a recipe for every palate. Try adding some smoky paprika or spicy cajun seasonings to give your turkey a unique twist. Or, go for something sweet with honey glazed fried turkey breast or lemon pepper fried turkey legs. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to be the star of your Thanksgiving table.