If I had to choose just one kitchen appliance, I would always go for an air fryer -why wouldn’t I? It is incredibly versatile, allowing me to prepare a variety of dishes within a minimum time without extra effort. From crispy potato fries to juicy duck breast, an air fryer can handle it all with minimal oil, making it a healthier option.
In this guide, I am going to walk you through the step-by-step cooking instructions on how to make juicy and crispy duck breasts using only an air fryer without worrying about messing up your kitchen. Air fryer duck breasts make for a delicious dinner when you are craving something a bit different. Therefore, keep reading because I am about to share an effortless and messless air fryer duck breast recipe with you.
Duck Breast In Air Fryer
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Knife
- Paper towel
- Plate
- Aluminum foil
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 2 Boneless duck breasts
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Pepper
- 1/4 tsp Chinese five-spice
- 1/4 tsp rosemary
- 1/4 tsp thyme
- 1/4 tsp allspice (optional)
Instructions
- Getting the Duck Breast ReadyStart by rinsing the duck breast under the cold running water. Then, pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. Make sure that the skin is completely dry because it aids in achieving crispiness.Moisture can hinder the skin from crisping up properly. Afterward, using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts or incisions through the skin and fat of the duck breast. Duck skin has a thick layer of fat underneath it.Scoring helps release some of this fat as it renders during cooking, which prevents the skin from becoming overly greasy and aids in achieving a crispy texture. Furthermore, by scoring the skin, you create channels for heat to penetrate evenly throughout the duck breast. While a criss-cross pattern is traditional, you can also opt for parallel lines.Remember: Avoid cutting all the way through the meat, as it can make the skin moist during cooking, preventing it from getting crispy.
- Seasoning the Duck BreastNow, it is time for seasonings. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over the duck breast. Feel free to add any other desired seasonings in a similar manner.Furthermore, you can also marinate the duck breast for 30 minutes using your favorite seasonings. However, I didn’t marinate the duck breast; you can do it if you want to. Be creative with the recipe.
- Cook the Duck BreastAfter seasoning the duck breast, put it in the air fryer basket with the skin side facing up. Set the air fryer to 390°F (195°C) and cook for five minutes. After about five minutes, lower the temperature to 320°F (160°C) and air fry for another 10-12 minutes.Starting at a higher temperature allows the fat to render quickly, making the skin crispy before the skin overcooks. Additionally, if during the cooking, your air fryer starts smoking, pause it, drain the fat, and then continue cooking. You might need to repeat this process, especially if your duck breast is fatty.Note: Farm duck is usually fattier than the wild dug.
- Serve the DishTransfer the duck to a plate and cover it with aluminum foil for 5 to 10 minutes. You can enjoy the duck with plum sauce, blackberry sauce, or hoisin sauce. If you prefer, you can also prepare some gravy to accompany it.
Notes
Nutritional Table
| Calories | Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Protein | Carbohydrates | Saturated Fat | Fiber |
| 485 | 26g | 326mg | 516mg | 59g | 0g | 7g | 0g |
If you are craving something new and simple, try making duck breast in an air fryer. This is one of the most convenient methods you will ever come across.
