If you’re doing carnivore (or keto) and getting a little tired of pork-based everything, poultry is a great way to change things up without leaving the high-protein, zero-carb zone.
These air fryer breakfast recipes use chicken, turkey, and even duck—so they give you variety and that solid morning fuel without a ton of effort.
I’ve tried each of these when I wanted something different but still easy, fast, and make-ahead friendly. Whether you’re looking to prep for the week or just want to start your day with something more filling than plain eggs, these are all solid options.
1. Chicken Sausage Patties with Eggs (My Go-To When I Want Something Light)
These homemade chicken sausage patties are super simple and way cleaner than most store-bought versions. You mix up the meat with a few basic seasonings (or none at all if you’re going strict carnivore), then air fry them until golden.
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Add some eggs on the side and you’ve got a breakfast that’s light but still filling.
I use this one a lot when I want something leaner but still high in protein. The patties also store really well, so I’ll make a batch and reheat throughout the week.
Get the recipe: Chicken Sausage Patties with Eggs – Air Fryer Recipe for a Protein Boost
2. Turkey Patties and Fried Eggs (When I’m Craving Something a Bit Heavier)
This one feels more like a weekend breakfast to me, just because the turkey patties are a little richer and more satisfying. You shape the ground turkey into small patties, season them if you like, and fry up some eggs to go with them.
I usually use ghee for the eggs to add more fat and flavor.
It’s a nice change from chicken or pork, and it works well if you’re looking for a leaner base but still want a high-protein start to your day.
Get the recipe: Keto-Friendly Turkey Patties with Fried Eggs – Air Fryer Recipe
3. Chicken Drumettes & Scrambled Eggs (Easy, Mess-Free, and Filling)
This recipe surprised me the first time I made it—chicken drumettes in the air fryer come out perfectly crispy, and they actually go great with scrambled eggs.
It’s not the kind of thing I’d normally make for breakfast, but once I tried it, I ended up adding it into my regular rotation.
What I like most is how low-effort it is. Just toss the drumettes in, scramble some eggs while they cook, and that’s it. No carbs, no sides needed.
Get the recipe: Best Chicken Drumettes with Scrambled Eggs – Air Fryer Recipe
4. Duck Bacon & Eggs Skillet (For When You Want a Power Breakfast)
This one feels a little fancier, but it’s just as easy as the others. You layer duck bacon with eggs in a skillet or oven-safe dish, pop it in the air fryer, and let it cook through.
Duck bacon has way more flavor than regular bacon, and paired with the eggs, it turns into a really rich, savory dish.
I use this on days when I’m eating one big meal in the morning or want something that feels like a treat without going off track.
Get the recipe: Duck Bacon and Egg Skillet – Air Fryer Carnivore Recipe for a Power Breakfast
Quick Take: Why I Keep These in My Weekly Rotation
When you’re eating carnivore, breakfast can start to feel repetitive—especially if you’re sticking to pork and beef every day. These poultry-based recipes let you change things up without adding carbs or overcomplicating your morning.
They’re also super meal-prep friendly. I’ll usually double up on the patties or drumettes, then reheat them during the week. And because they all cook in the air fryer, cleanup’s basically nothing.
If you’ve been stuck in a breakfast rut or just want to make mornings easier, these recipes are definitely worth saving. Try one or two and see which one fits best with your routine.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.