How Long to Deep Fry a 10 lb Turkey Breast Perfectly

Deep frying a turkey breast is a fantastic way to get deliciously moist, tender meat with an ultra-crispy skin It’s also much easier and safer than frying a whole turkey. However, to end up with the perfect deep-fried turkey breast, you need to fry it for the right amount of time So how long does it take to deep fry a 10 lb turkey breast?

Overview of Deep Frying a Turkey Breast

Here’s a quick rundown of the basic process of deep frying a turkey breast

• Choose a 10-12 lb boneless, skin-on turkey breast. Pat it dry thoroughly.

• Make a simple rub from olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices. Coat the turkey breast evenly.

• Heat 2-3 gallons of peanut oil to 350°F in a large stock pot. Use a deep fry thermometer.

• Very carefully lower the turkey into the hot oil using turkey frying tools. The oil may bubble up.

• Fry the turkey breast for around 40-50 minutes. Calculate roughly 4 minutes per pound.

• Use an instant read meat thermometer to check the internal temp. Remove at 165-170°F.

• Let the fried turkey breast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

The key is frying the turkey breast for the right amount of time to reach the perfect internal temperature. Next, we’ll look at that in more detail.

Calculating Fry Time for a 10 lb Turkey Breast

The general rule of thumb for deep frying a turkey breast is to calculate around 3-4 minutes per pound of turkey. For a 10 lb turkey breast, that would mean:

• 3 minutes per lb = 30 minutes
• 4 minutes per lb = 40 minutes

So the estimated fry time for a 10 lb turkey breast would be 30-40 minutes, depending on your preferences.

However, it’s best not to rely solely on the time per pound method. You should also use an instant read digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast.

Target Internal Temp for Fried Turkey Breast

The safe minimum internal temperature for turkey is 165°F. However, many chefs recommend taking the turkey breast up to 170-175°F for the juiciest, most tender results when deep frying.

So for a 10 lb fried turkey breast, you’ll want to fry it for around 40-50 minutes, until the thickest area registers between 165-175°F on an instant read thermometer.

Always take temperature in a few different spots to ensure even cooking. If the breast is not fully cooked through, fry it for 5-10 more minutes and recheck the temperature.

Maintaining Proper Oil Temperature

It’s crucial to maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F while deep frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside of the turkey will burn before the inside is cooked through. If the oil is too cool, the turkey will absorb too much oil.

Use a deep fry or candy thermometer with a high temperature range. Monitor the oil temp periodically and adjust the heat as needed to keep it between 340-360°F.

If the oil drops under 325°F, bring it back up before returning the turkey to avoid undercooking. Letting the oil get too hot above 375°F can also be dangerous.

Key Tips for Frying a 10 lb Turkey Breast

Here are some additional tips to ensure perfect results when deep frying a 10 lb turkey breast:

• Pat the turkey very dry before frying so it browns well and doesn’t pop and spatter.

• Use plenty of oil, around 2-3 gallons, so the turkey is submerged. The breast may float at first.

• Preheat the oil to 350°F before carefully lowering the turkey into the pot.

• Use a lifting hook and heavy duty gloves or mitts to put the turkey in the hot oil safely.

• Fry the turkey breast fully submerged, turning halfway if needed. Keep kids and pets safely away.

• Check the internal temp in a few places before removing from the oil.

• Let the fried turkey rest 15 minutes before slicing for juicy meat.

Serving and Leftovers

A fried turkey breast makes a fabulous entree for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Slice it and serve it hot with traditional side dishes and gravy.

Properly stored leftovers will last 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat fried turkey breast slices in the oven until hot, or quickly in the microwave.

Frying a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey shortens the fry time considerably while still giving you the same crunchy, juicy meat. Follow this guide for how long to deep fry a 10 lb turkey breast, and you’ll have perfect results every time.