Grill Granary
Verdict
The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-less Turkey Fryer delivers deliciously juicy, crispy-skinned turkey without the mess and danger of hot oil. It's an excellent choice for holiday cooking or backyard gatherings, offering versatility beyond just turkey. While it has a large footprint and some quirks with cooking consistency in windy conditions, its ease of use and safety make it a standout in the oil-less fryer category.

Pros & cons

Pros

  • ✓ No oil needed, safer than traditional frying
  • ✓ Produces juicy meat with crispy skin
  • ✓ Simple to use and clean
  • ✓ Cooks turkey faster than oven roasting
  • ✓ Great for cooking chicken, ribs, and roasts too

Cons

  • ✕ Large size requires ample storage space
  • ✕ Cooking times can vary due to outdoor temperature/wind
  • ✕ Basket can be tricky to lift with a heavy turkey
  • ✕ No temperature gauge included on some models

Specifications

Specification gauge
Char-Broil The Big Easy Oil-less Turkey Fryer
CapacityUp to 16 lbs turkey
Fuel TypePropane (Liquid Propane)
Heat TechnologyInfrared Cooking
IgnitionPiezo Electric Igniter
Dimensions21.3 x 21.espace x 35.4 inches

Our full review

The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-less Turkey Fryer is a standout roaster for anyone who loves the flavor of fried turkey without the mess, danger, or expense of a vat of hot oil. Using Char-Broil's patented Tru-Infrared cooking technology, this propane-powered unit circulates hot air around the bird, delivering the crispy, golden skin and juicy interior you'd expect from deep frying, all without submerging the meat in oil at all. It's designed specifically for whole poultry and roasts, making it a favorite centerpiece for Thanksgiving gatherings, backyard parties, and weekend cookouts where you want restaurant-quality results with far less hassle than traditional frying methods. Built for outdoor use, the Big Easy features a sturdy welded-wire cooking basket that holds the turkey securely while allowing heat to circulate evenly on all sides, along with a large lid that helps retain heat and speeds up cooking time significantly compared to a conventional oven. The unit runs on a standard propane tank, and its simple ignition system means you can get cooking quickly without complicated setup. Char-Broil designed this fryer with safety in mind, eliminating the risks of oil splatter, spills, or fire hazards that come with traditional deep frying, while still capturing that coveted crispy exterior and moist, flavorful meat that makes fried turkey so popular during the holidays. Beyond turkey, this versatile roaster handles chickens, roasts, and other cuts of meat with the same ease, making it a year-round tool rather than a once-a-season appliance. The compact footprint means it doesn't take up excessive patio or storage space, and cleanup is straightforward since there's no oil to dispose of or filter. Home cooks appreciate how the Big Easy consistently produces tender, well-seasoned results with minimal monitoring required during the cooking process, freeing up time and stovetop space for side dishes and other holiday prep. For grilling and BBQ enthusiasts looking to expand their outdoor cooking repertoire with a healthier, safer way to achieve that classic fried turkey taste, the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-less Turkey Fryer delivers reliable, delicious results every time.

4.5
Based on 4 verified owner reviews of the Char-Broil The Big Easy Oil-less Turkey Fryer.
Best Thanksgiving turkey ever — Mark T. (2023-11-20)
This fryer made the juiciest turkey I've ever had, and I didn't have to deal with any oil. Cleanup was a breeze too.
Great but takes practice — Sandra K. (2023-11-15)
First time using it, the turkey turned out great but took a bit longer than the guide suggested due to cold weather. Still, very happy with the results.
Versatile and safe — James P. (2022-12-05)
I've used this for turkey, chicken, and even a pork roast. It's safer than oil frying and just as tasty. Highly recommend.
Good investment — Linda M. (2023-10-30)
Works well, though the basket can be a little awkward to handle with a full-size turkey. Otherwise, very satisfied.