Whole duck cooked to a golden crisp in an air fryer
AirFryerRecipe.co.uk
Dinner Recipes
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Emma Lawson | 
15.07.2025

Air Fryer Whole Duck Recipe

Discover how to make a succulent air fryer whole duck with crispy skin in minimal time. This air fryer roast duck recipe ensures a perfect result every time, with juicy meat and crispy skin, by using the best air fryer duck method available. Learn how to cook duck in the air fryer to impress your dinner guests.
Prep Time
15m
Cook
40m
Total Time
55m
Yield
serves 4
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Main Course
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Turkey

Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Whole Duck

Essential Ingredients for Whole Duck

  • 1 whole duck
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • 2 tsp five-spice powder
  • 1 orange, quartered

Fresh Thyme

Add fresh thyme under the skin for a beautiful aroma that complements the crispy skin duck in the air fryer.

Scoring the Duck Skin

Score the duck skin carefully to allow the fat to render, which is crucial for achieving perfectly crispy skin. Make sure not to cut into the meat.

Steps to Cook Whole Duck in Air Fryer

Follow these instructions to master the air fryer whole duck recipe.

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Pat the duck dry and score the skin.
  3. Season the duck with salt, pepper, and five-spice powder.
  4. Stuff the orange quarters inside the cavity.
  5. Place the duck in the air fryer breast side up.
  6. Cook for 20 minutes, flip the duck, and cook for another 20 minutes.
  7. Let the duck rest before carving.

Avoid Overcooking

Monitor the internal temperature of the duck; it should reach at least 75°C (165°F) for safety, but overcooking can dry out the meat.
Air fryer basket with a perfectly roasted duck

Nutrition for Air Fryer Whole Duck

Calories: 320 | Protein: 40g | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 28g

Perfect Air Fryer Whole Duck Serving Suggestions

Serve your air fryer whole duck with glazed carrots and crispy roast potatoes. Add a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the duck.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Whole Duck

This air fryer whole duck recipe is a game-changer, providing a perfect blend of crispy skin and tender meat. airfryerrecipe.co.uk is your go-to source for more expert tips on using your air fryer to create delicious meals. This dish not only impresses at the dinner table but is also surprisingly straightforward, making it a great choice for your next culinary adventure.

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FAQs for Air Fryer Whole Duck

What is the best air fryer duck method?

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The best method involves thoroughly drying the duck, scoring the skin, and cooking at 400°F for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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How do you get crispy skin on a duck?

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To achieve crispy skin, ensure the duck is dry before cooking and score the duck skin to help render the fat.
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Why rest the duck before carving?

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Resting the duck for 10-15 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier meat.
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Can I use a frozen duck?

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Yes, but ensure it is completely thawed and dried before following the air fryer duck method for the best results.
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