Duck breast feels like a restaurant dish, but the air fryer makes it straightforward — the skin renders crisp and the meat stays rosy, with none of the fat spitting across your hob. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How long does duck breast take in an air fryer?
A: About 12–18 minutes at 180°C (360°F) — score the skin, cook skin-side up, and rest before slicing. Pink is around 14 minutes.
Q: How do you get crispy skin?
A: Score the skin in a criss-cross, season with salt, and let the fat render — no oil needed.
Times by doneness
| Doneness | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pink / medium | 180°C / 360°F | 12–15 min |
| Well done | 180°C / 360°F | 16–18 min |
Rest for 5 minutes before slicing so the juices settle.
Method
- Score the skin in a criss-cross, not into the meat.
- Season with salt; no oil needed.
- Cook skin-side up at 180°C so the fat renders.
- Rest 5 minutes, then slice across.
The recipe
Air Fryer Duck Breast
Ingredients
- 2 duck breasts
- Flaky salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: pinch of five spice
Method
- Score the skin; pat dry and season.
- Air fry skin-up at 180°C for 12–15 min.
- Check for your preferred doneness.
- Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Frequently asked questions
How long does duck breast take in an air fryer?
About 12–15 minutes at 180°C for pink, or 16–18 for well done. Score the skin, cook skin-side up, and rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
How do you get crispy duck skin in an air fryer?
Score the skin in a criss-cross, pat it dry, season with salt and cook skin-side up so the fat renders. No oil is needed.
Should duck breast be pink?
Duck is best served pink in the middle, like a good steak. Cook it further if you prefer, but it can dry out.