Tiffany Haney
Turkey drumsticks are a fun and delicious meal that can be made in an air fryer with minimal effort. The air fryer is able to create a crispy outer layer without the use of much oil, resulting in a healthier alternative to deep-fried turkey legs. This method is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, and can be served with almost any side dish.
How to cook turkey drumsticks in an air fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Turkey legs | Fresh or fully thawed turkey legs |
| Oil | Olive oil, avocado oil, vegetable oil |
| Seasonings | Smoked paprika, brown sugar, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, rosemary, garlic pepper rosemary blend, Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper |
| Cooking time | 30-40 minutes |
| Temperature | 325°F-400°F |
| Serving suggestions | Mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, orange cranberry sauce, broccoli salad, potato salad, air fryer blooming onion, fried Oreos |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the turkey drumsticks
Choosing the right turkey drumsticks is essential for achieving the best results when cooking in an air fryer. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect drumsticks:
First, opt for fresh or fully thawed turkey drumsticks. These will cook more evenly and crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Frozen drumsticks should be thawed before cooking to ensure consistent results. Most grocery stores carry fresh drumsticks in packs of two or three, typically weighing around 10–12 ounces each.
When selecting your drumsticks, consider the size of your air fryer. Larger turkey legs may not fit properly in a smaller air fryer, leading to uneven cooking or even burning. Ensure there is adequate space around each drumstick in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you may need to cook the drumsticks in batches.
It is also important to choose drumsticks that are similar in size to each other. This helps ensure that they cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being overcooked or undercooked. Look for drumsticks that are relatively uniform in thickness and length to ensure even cooking.
When purchasing your drumsticks, inspect the packaging for any signs of damage or leaks. Make sure the drumsticks are fresh and have been handled properly during storage and transportation. Check the "best before" or "use by" dates to ensure you are getting the freshest possible product.
Lastly, consider the source of your drumsticks. Look for a reputable supplier or butcher who sources their turkey from trusted farms. This can help ensure the quality and consistency of the meat. Opting for higher-quality drumsticks can make a difference in the overall taste and texture of your cooked dish.
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Preparing the seasoning
Once you've selected your seasonings, it's time to mix them. If you're using butter, melt it in a microwave-safe dish before stirring in your seasonings. Otherwise, olive oil or avocado oil will help the spices stick to the meat. Combine your oil or butter with the seasonings in a small bowl.
Now it's time to apply the seasoning to your turkey drumsticks. First, pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Then, use a pastry brush to brush the seasoned butter or oil all over the meat. Make sure to get underneath the skin for maximum flavour.
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Cooking temperature and time
The cooking temperature and time for turkey drumsticks in an air fryer will depend on the result you want and the size of your drumsticks. If you're using giant turkey legs, you may need to saw them in half so they fit in the air fryer.
Most recipes suggest cooking at 400°F (204°C) for 20 minutes, then flipping and cooking for another 10–20 minutes. You should cook the drumsticks until the internal temperature reaches 165–180°F (74–82°C). This will take around 30–40 minutes in total. If you're using smoked turkey legs, reduce the cooking time by about 10 minutes.
If you want extra-crispy skin, pat the drumsticks dry thoroughly and apply oil and seasoning. If the drumsticks are browning too quickly, reduce the temperature to 325°F (163°C). Different air fryers vary in heat intensity, so check the drumsticks halfway through and adjust as needed.
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Avoiding overcrowding
When cooking turkey drumsticks in an air fryer, it is important to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This is because overcrowding can lead to poorly cooked drumsticks, as it prevents hot air from circulating properly, resulting in uneven cooking.
To avoid overcrowding, it is recommended to cook the drumsticks in batches if necessary. This means cooking a smaller number of drumsticks at a time, ensuring that there is sufficient space between each drumstick in the air fryer basket. This allows for proper air circulation, which is crucial for achieving the desired crispy exterior and juicy interior texture.
The size of the drumsticks is an important consideration when aiming to avoid overcrowding. Opting for drumsticks that are similar in size promotes even cooking and ensures that each drumstick receives an adequate amount of heat. Larger drumsticks may not fit properly in the air fryer, so it is advisable to check the size of your air fryer basket before purchasing drumsticks.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the drumsticks and the model of your air fryer. Therefore, it is recommended to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. By inserting the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick, you can ensure that the internal temperature reaches a minimum of 165°F (74°C), indicating that the drumsticks are safe to eat.
By following these guidelines and avoiding overcrowding, you can ensure that your turkey drumsticks are cooked evenly and thoroughly, resulting in a delicious and impressive centerpiece for your meal.
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Reheating and storing
Leftover turkey drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the meat from drying out, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can eat them cold or reheat them in the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 350-360°F and reheat for about 6-8 minutes. This will ensure your turkey legs stay crispy and delicious!
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