As the holiday season approaches, many families are eagerly awaiting their annual Thanksgiving feast. While traditional roasted turkeys are always a hit, why not shake things up this year with a crispy and juicy deep-fried turkey? Not only will it be a show-stopper at your dinner table, but the smell of fried turkey wafting from your kitchen will have everyone’s mouth watering in anticipation.
In fact, deep-frying turkeys has become increasingly popular over the years due to its ease and versatility. With a wide range of flavors and seasonings to choose from, you can create a truly unique dish that suits your taste preferences. From classic Southern-style to spicy Cajun-inspired, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering deep-fry turkey recipes for Thanksgiving that are sure to impress your loved ones.
Classic Southern Deep Fried Turkey
A holiday tradition that’s sure to please: crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of Southern flavor!
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
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and turkey; refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat the fryer to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Remove turkey from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge turkey in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Carefully place turkey into hot oil; fry for 3-4 minutes per pound or until golden brown.
6. Let turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Cajun Spiced Deep Fried Turkey
Get ready to experience a mouth-watering twist on traditional turkey with this Cajun Spiced Deep Fried Turkey recipe! This Southern-inspired dish is sure to be the star of your holiday gathering.
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
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade, making sure it’s fully submerged. Cover and 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 marinade, letting any excess liquid 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).
7. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Garlic Herb Butter Deep Fried Turkey
This recipe brings a new level of flavor and excitement to your holiday turkey with the rich combination of garlic, herbs, and buttery goodness. Perfect for special occasions or everyday feasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 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 butter, garlic, parsley, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff the turkey cavity with the herb butter mixture.
4. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the turkey from the oil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Peppercorn Crusted Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this crispy, flavorful turkey recipe. A peppercorn crust adds a savory and aromatic twist to the classic deep-fried bird.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup black pepper
– 1/4 cup white peppercorns
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together black pepper, white peppercorns, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
4. Coat the turkey evenly with the peppercorn mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oil and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your Thanksgiving game with this show-stopping Smoky Chipotle Deep Fried Turkey recipe, packed with smoky heat and crispy crunch. Perfect for a holiday feast or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, smoked paprika, chipotle powder, and garlic powder.
2. Submerge the turkey in the marinade, 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, 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).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes
Lemon Pepper Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this crispy and flavorful Lemon Pepper Deep Fried Turkey recipe. With a zesty lemon pepper seasoning blend, you’ll be sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Remove giblets and neck from turkey. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Dredge turkey in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured turkey in buttermilk, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Dredge turkey in the seasoned flour mixture again, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
7. Fry turkey for 3-1/2 minutes per pound (about 45-50 minutes total).
8. Remove from oil and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Honey Glazed Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this sweet and savory take on the classic deep-fried turkey. This recipe combines the tender juiciness of a perfectly cooked bird with a sticky, honey-glazed crust that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup honey
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Submerge the turkey in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Remove the turkey from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, mix together honey and 1 tablespoon water. Brush the glaze all over the turkey during the last 10 minutes of frying.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Deep Fried Turkey
Get ready to elevate your turkey game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of sriracha with the crunch of deep-frying. This show-stopping dish is perfect for special occasions or as a twist on your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, Sriracha, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
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, 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). Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this aromatic and savory Rosemary Garlic Deep Fried Turkey recipe. The perfect blend of herbs and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, 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 buttermilk, shaking off excess.
5. Place the turkey in the deep fryer and cook for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Buttermilk Brined Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with this show-stopping, juicy turkey recipe that combines the richness of buttermilk brining with the crunch of deep-frying.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 gallon buttermilk
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large container, whisk together buttermilk, kosher salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder 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). Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-60 minutes
Jerk Seasoned Deep Fried Turkey
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering Jerk Seasoned Deep Fried Turkey recipe, perfect for your next gathering or special occasion. This dish combines the richness of deep-frying with the zesty warmth of jerk seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning blend
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: your choice of additional seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and jerk seasoning until well combined.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
3. Remove the turkey from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
4. In a separate bowl, mix flour and any additional seasonings (if using).
5. Dredge the turkey in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
6. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
7. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your turkey.
Maple Bourbon Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this unique and mouthwatering Maple Bourbon Deep Fried Turkey recipe. The perfect blend of sweet and savory, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and bourbon.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together salt and black pepper.
3. Dredge turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured turkey in maple-bourbon mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Carefully place turkey in hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove turkey from oil with tongs and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature.
– Don’t overcrowd the frying pan, fry in batches if necessary.
– Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Asian Five-Spice Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with this crispy and flavorful Asian-inspired deep-fried turkey recipe, infused with the bold flavors of five-spice powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons Asian five-spice powder
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together five-spice powder, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Remove giblets from turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and buttermilk. Add the turkey and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or turkey fryer to 375°F.
6. Remove the turkey from marinade and place it in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
BBQ Rub Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday feast with a crispy, juicy turkey seasoned with a sweet and tangy BBQ rub, then deep-fried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
– 1/2 cup BBQ rub
– 1 gallon buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large container, whisk together buttermilk and BBQ rub until smooth. Add turkey and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Remove turkey from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Carefully place turkey in hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the turkey has reached 165°F.
6. Remove turkey from oil with a slotted spoon and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Truffle Oil Infused Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday meal with a rich and savory twist on traditional turkey – Truffle Oil Infused Deep Fried Turkey. This recipe combines the deep flavors of truffle oil with the crispy, juicy goodness of fried turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Submerge turkey in the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Let turkey marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove turkey from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Dredge turkey in a mixture of flour and truffle oil, shaking off excess.
7. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Let turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Citrus Marinated Deep Fried Turkey
Elevate your holiday gathering with this mouthwatering Citrus Marinated Deep Fried Turkey recipe! By marinating the turkey in a zesty citrus mixture and then frying it to crispy perfection, you’ll create a show-stopping centerpiece that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange and grapefruit juices, olive oil, honey, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the turkey to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat the fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
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 and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Blackened Deep Fried Turkey
Get ready to wow your family and friends with this mouth-watering Blackened Deep Fried Turkey recipe! This twist on traditional fried turkey adds a bold, spicy kick from blackening seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large container, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, and blackening seasoning. Stir to dissolve.
2. Submerge the turkey in the marinade, making sure it’s fully covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the turkey from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Dredge the turkey in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-1/2 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Herb-Crusted Deep Fried Turkey with Gravy
Elevate your holiday gathering with this mouthwatering Herb-Crusted Deep Fried Turkey recipe, complete with a rich and savory gravy. This show-stopping dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp dried thyme
– 2 tbsp dried rosemary
– 2 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from frying)
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the fryer to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Coat the turkey evenly with the herb mixture, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. For the gravy, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in turkey drippings and simmer until thickened.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving game with these 18 crispy deep fry turkey recipes! From classic Southern-style to spicy and smoky, there’s a flavor combination for everyone. Try the Classic Southern Deep Fried Turkey with its tender and juicy meat, or go bold with the Spicy Sriracha Deep Fried Turkey. Alternatively, indulge in the rich flavors of the Truffle Oil Infused Deep Fried Turkey or the Herb-Crusted Deep Fried Turkey with Gravy. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes will ensure a crispy and delicious turkey that’s sure to impress your guests.
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