As the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving feast, a crispy and juicy fried turkey is sure to impress your guests. But why settle for just any old recipe when you can try something new and exciting? This year, shake things up with one (or two, or three…) of these 18 mouthwatering crispy fried turkey recipes. From classic Southern flavors to bold international twists, we’ve got the perfect dish for every palate.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a wide range of creative and delicious fried turkey recipes that are sure to become new family traditions. Whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true Southern classic or something more adventurous, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into the world of crispy fried turkey!
Classic Southern Deep-Fried Turkey
Classic Southern Deep-Fried Turkey Recipe
Get ready to experience the ultimate Southern comfort food – a crispy, juicy, and mouthwatering deep-fried turkey!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
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 oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes
Cajun Spiced Fried Turkey with Garlic Butter
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the classic flavors of Cajun spices and garlic butter to elevate your fried turkey game. Perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the turkey in the hot oil and fry for 3-1/2 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While the turkey is frying, melt the butter with garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Remove the turkey from the oil and brush it with the garlic butter while it’s still warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Buttermilk Brined Fried Turkey
Elevate your fried turkey game with this Buttermilk Brined recipe, adding a tangy twist to the classic dish. By soaking the turkey in a buttermilk brine, you’ll achieve tender, juicy meat that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons black pepper
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large container, whisk together buttermilk, kosher salt, brown sugar, and black pepper until dissolved.
2. Add the turkey to the brine, making sure it’s fully submerged. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Preheat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the brine, pat dry with paper towels, and dredge in paprika.
5. Fry the turkey for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 2-3 hours total, depending on turkey size
Peppercorn Crusted Fried Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this indulgent peppercorn crust and crispy fried exterior, perfect for a special occasion or holiday gathering. This recipe yields a juicy and flavorful bird that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup peppercorns (black, white, and green)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, grind peppercorns into a fine powder.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
5. Dip turkey in buttermilk, then coat in peppercorn mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total cooking time. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Smoky Paprika Fried Turkey with Herb Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the smokiness of paprika with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 lb) whole turkey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Rub the herb 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 roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Asian-Inspired Five-Spice Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this sweet and savory Asian-inspired twist on traditional fried turkey. This recipe combines the warm spices of five-spice powder with the crunch of panko breadcrumbs for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together vegetable oil, five-spice powder, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the turkey, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for about 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Garlic and Rosemary Infused Fried Turkey
Elevate your turkey game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and rosemary with a crispy fried exterior. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole turkey
– 2 heads of garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and flour.
3. Remove giblets from the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Dip the turkey in the buttermilk mixture, coating evenly, then roll in the garlic-rosemary mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the turkey in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on turkey size.
Spicy Cajun Fried Turkey with Hot Sauce Glaze
Add a bold twist to your turkey game with this spicy Cajun fried turkey, smothered in a tangy hot sauce glaze. Perfect for special occasions or a casual gathering.
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 Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hot sauce glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and black 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 in hot oil until golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Glaze with hot sauce glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Hot Sauce Glaze:
– 1/2 cup hot sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
Mix together and brush over turkey during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: About 3-4 hours (including frying time)
Lemon Pepper Fried Turkey with Citrus Marinade
Lemon Pepper Fried Turkey with Citrus Marinade Recipe
Elevate your turkey game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, perfect for springtime gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey breast
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup citrus marinade (see below)
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Citrus Marinade:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, paprika, and salt.
3. Place turkey breast in a shallow dish and brush the citrus-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the turkey.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove turkey from marinade, pat dry with paper towels, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Honey Glazed Fried Turkey with Thyme
Elevate your holiday gathering with this mouthwatering honey glazed fried turkey, infused with the warm aromas of thyme. This recipe combines the classic flavors of sweet and savory to create a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the glaze all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 3-3 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: Approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Herb-Crusted Fried Turkey with Sage Butter
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this Herb-Crusted Fried Turkey with Sage Butter recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sage butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
4. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Sage Butter:
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp chopped fresh sage
Mix the butter and sage together until smooth. Serve with the fried turkey.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jerk Seasoned Fried Turkey with Mango Salsa
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this Caribbean-inspired twist on traditional fried turkey. The bold flavors of jerk seasoning and crispy fried exterior pair perfectly with the sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
For the turkey:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the mango salsa:
– 3 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and jerk seasoning. Add turkey and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F. Remove turkey from buttermilk mixture, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
4. For the mango salsa, combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve fried turkey with mango salsa spooned over the top and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Maple Bourbon Fried Turkey with Pecan Crust
Maple Bourbon Fried Turkey with Pecan Crust: A Twist on Classic Thanksgiving Fare
This sweet and savory turkey dish is perfect for the holidays, featuring a crunchy pecan crust infused with the warmth of bourbon and the richness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, pecans, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon whiskey, and black pepper.
4. Dip turkey in the wet mixture, then coat with the pecan crust mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry turkey for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Place turkey on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total
Blackened Fried Turkey with Creole Seasoning
A Southern twist on traditional fried turkey, this recipe adds a bold and spicy kick from creole seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons creole seasoning
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together creole seasoning and paprika.
2. Add the turkey to the bowl and coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.
3. Pour in buttermilk and make sure the turkey is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the turkey from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total cooking time.
Garlic Parmesan Fried Turkey with Crispy Skin
Elevate your turkey game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the savory flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and crispy skin. Perfect for special occasions or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub all over the turkey.
4. Dip the turkey in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the turkey.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours or until golden brown. Crispy skin will form during cooking.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on turkey size.
Sweet Tea Brined Fried Turkey
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving game with this mouth-watering sweet tea brined fried turkey recipe, straight from the heart of Dixie!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup sweet tea (brewed strong)
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh herbs (such as thyme and sage) for garnish
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 flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dip the floured turkey in buttermilk, then roll in a mixture of equal parts all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
6. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the turkey for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
8. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total cooking time (brining excluded).
Chili Lime Fried Turkey with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chili and lime with the tender goodness of fried turkey, topped off with a creamy avocado crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Avocado crema (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
3. Dredge the turkey in the spice mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the turkey in hot oil until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes per side.
5. Remove from oil and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve with avocado crema (recipe below).
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Truffle Oil Fried Turkey with Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this luxurious twist on a classic turkey dish. Truffle oil and earthy mushrooms add depth and sophistication to this show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix truffle oil and melted butter.
3. Rub the turkey all over with the truffle-butter mixture, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
7. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, bringing mixture to a simmer.
8. Place the turkey in the oven and roast until cooked through, about 3-4 hours.
9. Serve the turkey with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on turkey size)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these 18 crispy fried turkey recipes! From classic Southern deep-fried turkey to innovative flavors like Asian-inspired five-spice and maple bourbon, there’s something for every palate. Try Cajun spiced fried turkey with garlic butter, or take it up a notch with blackened fried turkey and creole seasoning. For a sweet twist, go for honey glazed fried turkey with thyme or truffle oil fried turkey with mushroom gravy. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to impress your guests.
