Get ready to gobble up some deliciousness this holiday season with our collection of 20 Crispy Fried Turkey Recipes! Whether you’re a Southern belle or a spicy food lover, we’ve got you covered. From classic comfort foods to bold and zesty twists, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of crispy fried turkey, exploring a variety of flavors and techniques to take your holiday meal from ordinary to extraordinary. From savory spices to tangy glazes, our recipe roundup features a diverse range of options to suit any taste or occasion.
Classic Southern Fried Turkey
Classic Southern Fried Turkey Recipe
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering classic Southern fried turkey recipe!
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
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Pour the buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
4. Dip the turkey in the buttermilk, coating it completely, then roll it in the flour mixture to coat.
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 (175°C).
6. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun Spiced Fried Turkey
This recipe adds a bold kick of Cajun spice to traditional fried turkey, perfect for your next holiday gathering or backyard BBQ. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this Cajun-spiced bird is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rinse turkey and pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle Cajun spice mixture evenly over the turkey.
4. Dredge turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dip floured turkey in buttermilk, then roll in additional flour to coat.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove turkey from oil with tongs or slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total (20 minutes resting time).
Garlic Herb Butter Fried Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic and flavorful Garlic Herb Butter Fried Turkey recipe, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme.
3. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Season the turkey inside and out with salt and pepper.
5. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the turkey for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Place the fried turkey on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Spicy Sriracha Glazed Fried Turkey
Get ready to elevate your holiday turkey game with this sweet and spicy twist on a classic recipe. This Spicy Sriracha Glazed Fried Turkey is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and crispy skin.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove giblets and pat dry the turkey with paper towels.
4. Dip the turkey in buttermilk, then coat evenly with the Sriracha glaze.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-1/2 to 4 minutes per pound or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Pepper Fried Turkey
Lemon Pepper Fried Turkey Recipe
Elevate your turkey game with this refreshing twist on traditional fried turkey. The combination of zesty lemon and warm pepper will have your guests begging for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons black pepper, freshly ground
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and pepper.
2. Add the buttermilk and mix until smooth.
3. Remove the giblets from the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Submerge the turkey in the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Let the turkey marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
8. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off any excess.
9. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound or until golden brown.
10. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Paprika Fried Turkey
Add a smoky twist to your turkey with this flavorful fried recipe.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
• 1 cup (120ml) buttermilk
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Remove the turkey from the oil with tongs and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Mustard Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and tangy twist on traditional turkey. The honey mustard glaze adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the crispy exterior of this juicy fried turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip turkey in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
5. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard.
7. Brush glaze over turkey during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Jerk Seasoned Fried Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful jerk seasoned fried turkey recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) turkey breast or tenderloins, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together jerk seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip turkey pieces into the spice mixture, coating evenly.
3. Dredge coated turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured turkey in buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry turkey in hot oil (350°F) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this aromatic and flavorful fried turkey recipe, infused with the savory essence of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, inside and out.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
6. Place the turkey in the hot oil, breast side down.
7. Fry for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Flip the turkey halfway through cooking and adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Maple Glazed Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory maple glazed fried turkey recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove giblets and pat turkey dry with paper towels.
5. Brush the glaze all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Sprinkle the garlic-paprika mixture evenly over the turkey.
7. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
8. Cook for 3-4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Baste with pan juices every 30 minutes to keep the turkey moist.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Chili Lime Fried Turkey
Add a bold twist to your holiday turkey with this Chili Lime Fried Turkey recipe. A perfect combination of spicy and tangy, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, lime juice, olive oil, 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. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and roast for about 2 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 1/2 hours
Asian Five-Spice Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this flavorful and aromatic Asian-inspired turkey dish. This recipe combines the classic flavors of five-spice powder with crispy fried skin, perfect for a unique twist on traditional roasted turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together five-spice powder, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Dip the turkey in cornstarch, shaking off excess, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
7. Sear the turkey until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes per side. Finish cooking the turkey in the preheated oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan crusted fried turkey recipe. Perfect for a crowd, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip turkey into buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the Parmesan mixture to coat.
5. Place coated turkey into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and let cool for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
BBQ Rubbed Fried Turkey
Get ready to elevate your fried turkey game with this sweet and smoky recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey, patted dry
– 1 cup BBQ rub (your favorite brand or homemade)
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the fryer to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and 1/4 cup of the BBQ rub until well combined.
3. Add the turkey to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge the turkey in the remaining BBQ rub, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Fry the turkey in batches if necessary, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Drain the turkey on paper towels and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (depending on size of turkey)
Herb Marinated Fried Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with this flavorful and juicy herb marinated fried turkey recipe. This crispy exterior and tender interior dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the turkey to the marinade and make sure it’s fully coated.
4. Let the turkey marinate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the turkey from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Fry the turkey in a deep fryer or large pot filled with about 3-4 inches of vegetable oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per pound.
7. Drain the turkey on paper towels and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes total (including marinating time)
Sweet and Spicy Fried Turkey
Sweet and Spicy Fried Turkey Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors with this mouth-watering fried turkey recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
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.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of your turkey.
Orange Zest Fried Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving dinner with this citrusy twist on traditional fried turkey. The combination of orange zest and herbs adds a bright, aromatic flavor to the crispy exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, melted butter, orange juice, orange zest, garlic, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Curry Infused Fried Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic Curry Infused Fried Turkey recipe. A perfect blend of Indian spices and crispy fried goodness will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup curry powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together curry powder, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in buttermilk and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Remove the turkey from buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Carefully place the turkey in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Remove the turkey from the oil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Peppercorn Crusted Fried Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and crispy recipe that combines the richness of peppercorns with the crunch of a perfectly fried exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, crushed
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together crushed peppercorns, coriander seeds, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish. Dip the turkey in the buttermilk, then coat in the peppercorn mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Carefully place the coated turkey in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the turkey from the oil with tongs and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bourbon Glazed Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this mouthwatering Bourbon Glazed Fried Turkey recipe! The perfect combination of crispy fried exterior and juicy turkey, smothered in a rich bourbon glaze.
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
– Bourbon Glaze (recipe below)
Bourbon Glaze:
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip turkey in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry turkey for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. In a small saucepan, combine Bourbon Glaze ingredients over medium heat, whisking until smooth.
6. Brush glaze all over turkey during the last 10 minutes of frying.
7. Let turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your turkey game with these 20 crispy fried turkey recipes! From classic Southern-style to bold international flavors, there’s something for every palate. Try the Classic Southern Fried Turkey, spiced up with Cajun flair or give Garlic Herb Butter a try for a rich and savory twist. For those who like it hot, Spicy Sriracha Glazed is the way to go, while Lemon Pepper adds a bright and citrusy note. With so many options, you’ll never get bored with these flavorful fried turkey recipes!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
