Air Fryer Smoked Turkey Legs: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Turkey legs are a versatile dish that can be served at a fun game day party or a small Thanksgiving gathering. They are also a great source of protein and can be a healthy meal option. Cooking them in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to get that crispy, mouthwatering outer layer without using much oil.

The time it takes to cook smoked turkey legs in an air fryer depends on the size of the legs and the air fryer being used. On average, it takes about 30-40 minutes to cook turkey legs in the air fryer, but larger drumsticks will need more time. The best way to check if your turkey legs are cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

Turkey legs: fresh or frozen?

Turkey legs can be bought either fresh or frozen, and both are great options for baking, grilling, smoking, or slow cooking. Fresh turkey legs are usually packaged ready to cook, and you can select whether you want the thigh included or just the drumstick. The skin should be mostly cream-coloured, with hints of yellow that indicate fat beneath the skin. This fat renders during cooking, adding flavour and tenderness. Frozen turkey legs are a good option if you want to buy in bulk and cook turkey legs throughout the year, as they can be stored in the freezer for up to eight weeks. If you're using frozen turkey legs, make sure to thaw them before cooking.

When selecting turkey legs, it's important to consider the size of the legs and how they will fit in your air fryer. Larger turkey legs may not fit properly and can touch the top of the basket, leading to burning. It's also crucial to avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer and the turkey legs, you may need to cook them in batches.

When preparing turkey legs for cooking, it's recommended to pat them dry with paper towels before applying any seasonings or marinades. This will help ensure that you get crispy, golden brown skin. You can also brine the turkey legs before cooking, but be sure to pat them dry before placing them in the air fryer.

In terms of cooking time, larger turkey legs will need more time, while smaller ones will cook faster. The cooking time can range from 20 to 40 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the size of the legs. It's important to use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the thickest part of the turkey leg reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety.

How to make a rub for smoked turkey legs

To make a rub for smoked turkey legs, you'll need to gather a few ingredients and seasonings. The specific ingredients will vary depending on your preferences and the desired flavour profile. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a rub for smoked turkey legs:

• Gather Your Ingredients: The exact ingredients will depend on your taste preferences and the desired flavour profile. Common ingredients used in turkey rubs include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (smoked or regular), and butter or olive oil. You can also add other seasonings like poultry seasoning, dried parsley flakes, brown sugar, curing salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, cloves, bay leaves, etc.
• Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix and combine all the ingredients for the rub. Use a fork or a whisk to ensure the ingredients are well incorporated and any lumps are broken up.
• Customise Your Rub: You can customise your rub by adjusting the amounts of each ingredient to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier rub, you can add more black pepper or cayenne pepper. If you want a sweeter flavour, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or add other sweet elements. Play around with the ingredients to find the perfect combination for your palate.
• Store the Rub: If you've made a larger batch of the rub or have some leftover, you can store it in an airtight container. Glass spice containers or jars are ideal for this purpose. The rub can be stored at room temperature and used within a month.
• Apply the Rub to the Turkey Legs: Once you've prepared the rub, it's time to apply it to the turkey legs. Remove the turkey legs from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. Generously coat the turkey legs with the rub, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavour. Use your hands or a brush to evenly distribute the rub.
• Allow the Rub to Marinate: After applying the rub, let the turkey legs sit for a while to allow the flavours to penetrate the meat. This step is optional but can enhance the flavour of the final product.
• Cook the Turkey Legs: Follow your chosen cooking method, such as air frying, smoking, or grilling. Refer to specific recipes for cooking instructions.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create a unique rub that suits your taste preferences. You can also try different cooking methods and techniques to achieve the desired texture and flavour for your smoked turkey legs.

How long to cook smoked turkey legs in an air fryer

Turkey legs are a great, healthier alternative to chicken legs, and cooking them in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get them on the table in under an hour.

It takes around 30-40 minutes to cook smoked turkey legs in an air fryer. The time will vary depending on the size of the turkey legs and the type of air fryer you are using. The best way to check if your turkey legs are cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should be 165°F when done.

First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Then, lightly spray or coat the pre-cooked, pre-smoked turkey legs with oil, using about a teaspoon of oil for every two legs. Place the turkey legs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch the top of the air fryer, or they may burn. Air fry for about 10 minutes, rotating halfway through to ensure even cooking. Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer, and ensure they register 165°F.

Tips for cooking smoked turkey legs in an air fryer:

• If your turkey legs are frozen, defrost them by submerging them in cold water (do not remove the packaging). They should defrost in 2-4 hours. You can also leave them in the fridge overnight to thaw.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Space out the turkey legs to ensure even cooking.
• Pat the turkey legs dry before cooking. This will help to ensure you get crispy, golden skin.
• If your turkey legs are browning too quickly or burning, reduce the temperature of the air fryer to 325°F.
• Let the turkey legs rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow them to reabsorb any lost liquid.

Smoked turkey legs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Try them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salad, cranberry sauce, gravy, or barbecue sauce. For a true Disneyland dining experience, pair them with churros and homemade dole whip!

What to serve with smoked turkey legs

There are many side dishes that can complement the juicy texture and smoky flavour of smoked turkey legs. Here are some ideas to serve alongside this classic comfort food:

Vegetables

• Roasted root vegetables— bring natural sweetness to the meal. Carrots, potatoes, squash, and turnips are great options.
• Green salad— adds freshness and balance to the meal. Use a variety of greens like spinach, kale, romaine lettuce, watercress, and arugula. Top with nuts or seeds for added flavour and texture.
• Coleslaw— a light and crunchy side that cuts through the smokiness of the turkey legs. Use freshly shredded cabbage for maximum crispness.
• Roasted vegetables— an easy and nutritious side. Try carrots, potatoes, onions, and squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Asparagus—roast asparagus spears at high heat with garlic cloves for a flavourful side.
• Green beans— high in vitamins A and C, try sautéing them in garlic and olive oil.

Starch

• White or brown rice— a classic accompaniment to smoked turkey legs, adding some carbohydrates to the meal.
• Sweet potatoes— a delicious side that pairs well with the smoky flavour of the turkey. They can be served mashed, roasted, or as wedges.
• Mashed potatoes— the creamy texture complements the smoky flavour of the turkey legs.
• Baked potatoes— smoky flavour will infuse baked potatoes, making them a great pairing.

Breads

• Cornbread— an absolute must when serving smoked turkey legs. Its sweet and savoury flavour complements the meat's smokiness.
• Biscuits— freshly baked biscuits pair wonderfully with smoked turkey legs, offering a soft contrast to the crispy skin.
• Potato skins— add an extra layer of crunch to the meal.

Beans

• Baked beans— an excellent side as their sweet-and-savoury taste complements the smokiness of the turkey legs.
• Macaroni and cheese— a comfort food that goes perfectly with smoked turkey legs.

Other Sides

• Collard greens— a nutritious side with a slightly bitter taste that contrasts nicely with the smoky flavour of the meat.
• Cranberry sauce— a sweet but not too heavy option to serve with smoked turkey legs.
• Gravy— a classic pairing with turkey.
• Apple sauce— a sweet and tangy option.
• Stuffing— a popular choice, especially around Thanksgiving.
• Creamed spinach— the creamy sauce contrasts with the smoky flavour of the meat.

How to reheat smoked turkey legs in an air fryer

If you have leftover smoked turkey legs, you can easily reheat them in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350°F (177°C). This is the ideal temperature to reheat your smoked turkey legs without overcooking them.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Legs

Place the smoked turkey legs in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are spaced out and not overcrowded, as this will impact cooking time and evenness. You may need to reheat in batches if you have a lot of turkey legs.

Lightly spray or brush the turkey legs with oil. This will help ensure the meat stays moist and juicy, and it will also help to crisp up the skin.

Step 3: Reheat the Turkey Legs

Place the air fryer basket into the preheated air fryer and cook for 5-7 minutes. For best results, flip the turkey legs halfway through to ensure even heating.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

After 5-7 minutes, your smoked turkey legs should be heated through. However, it is always good to check with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached a safe temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat; the internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the turkey legs are heated through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and tender meat. Then, serve and enjoy!

Tips:

• If your smoked turkey legs are frozen, be sure to defrost them before reheating. You can do this by submerging them in cold water (still in their packaging) for 2-4 hours, or by leaving them in the fridge overnight to thaw.
• If you are reheating lean turkey legs, be mindful that they may require less time to reheat. Start with 5 minutes and add more time as needed.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, reheat in batches to ensure even cooking.
• For extra crispy skin, pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels before reheating.
• Always ensure your turkey legs are thoroughly cooked before consuming.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious, crispy, and juicy smoked turkey legs from the comfort of your home!

Frequently asked questions