7 Smoked Turkey Leg Recipes

If you’re craving something tasty, smoked turkey legs might just be your answer! You can try different flavors like classic smoked, honey glazed, or spicy BBQ. Imagine the joy of pairing these with sides like cornbread, coleslaw, or baked beans! Plus, there are variations like teriyaki and citrus-infused that’ll keep your taste buds excited. How about herb-crusted or smoky chipotle to spice things up? Each option is delicious and satisfying. Ready to impress your family or friends? Stick around, and you’ll discover more scrumptious recipes to elevate your next meal!

Classic Smoked Turkey Leg Recipe

Title: Classic Smoked Turkey Leg Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Smoker or grill, meat thermometer, aluminum foil, basting brush
Cuisine Type: American

The Classic Smoked Turkey Leg Recipe brings the rich, savory flavors of smoked meat right to your backyard. Perfect for gatherings, tailgates, or a comforting family dinner, this recipe transforms turkey legs into a mouthwatering dish with a smoky aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The slow smoking process infuses the turkey with deep flavors while keeping the meat incredibly tender and juicy, creating a satisfying meal. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for both experienced pitmasters and novice cooks.

By using a dry rub and a few hours in the smoker, you can achieve that quintessential smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. Serve these turkey legs with cornbread, coleslaw, or baked beans for a classic barbecue experience that will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood recommended)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the turkey legs. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps to remove any residual moisture that could affect the smoking process.
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to create a dry rub. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Rub the spice mixture generously over each turkey leg, ensuring that they’re evenly coated. Allow the seasoned turkey legs to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to help the flavors meld.
4. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C). If using a grill, set it up for indirect cooking and add wood chips to the smoker box or directly on the coals for smoking.
5. Once the smoker is ready, place the turkey legs on the grates, ensuring they aren’t directly over the heat source. Close the lid and smoke the turkey legs for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy.
6. When the turkey legs are done, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.

Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider brining the turkey legs overnight in a solution of water, salt, and your favorite herbs before seasoning them.

Also, feel free to experiment with different wood chips to customize the flavor profile to your liking. If you want a crispier skin, you can finish the turkey legs on a hot grill for a few minutes after smoking. Enjoy your delicious smoked turkey legs!

Honey Glazed Smoked Turkey Legs

Title: Honey Glazed Smoked Turkey Legs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Smoker or grill, meat thermometer, basting brush, aluminum foil
Cuisine Type: American

Honey Glazed Smoked Turkey Legs are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich, smoky flavor of turkey with the sweet, sticky goodness of honey. This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, or holiday feasts, delivering a mouthwatering experience that will leave your guests coming back for more.

The slow smoking process allows the turkey legs to absorb all the flavors from the wood chips, while the honey glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a shiny, flavorful coating.

The simplicity of this dish makes it accessible for cooks of all levels. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can transform ordinary turkey legs into a gourmet treat. Serve them with your favorite sides, and watch as they become the star of any meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just starting out, these honey glazed turkey legs are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wood chips for smoking (such as hickory or applewood)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your smoker or grill for indirect heat. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side and place a drip pan on the other side to catch any drippings. Preheat the smoker or grill to a temperature of 225°F (107°C).
2. While the grill is heating up, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your glaze for the turkey legs.
3. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the glaze adhere better. Season the legs with salt and pepper before coating them in the honey mixture, making sure they’re well covered.
4. Place the turkey legs on the smoker or the cooler side of the grill. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one leg, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bone. Close the lid and smoke the turkey legs for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the honey glaze every 30 minutes.
5. Continue to smoke the turkey legs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove them from the smoker or grill and loosely cover with aluminum foil for about 10 minutes to let them rest.
6. After resting, serve the honey glazed smoked turkey legs with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Extra Tips: For the best flavor, consider marinating the turkey legs in the honey glaze mixture for a few hours or overnight before smoking.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different wood chips to customize the smoky flavor to your liking. If you’re short on time, you can also cook the turkey legs in the oven at a low temperature, but make sure to finish them on the grill for that delicious smoky taste.

Spicy BBQ Smoked Turkey Legs

Title: Spicy BBQ Smoked Turkey Legs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 180 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Smoker or grill, meat thermometer, aluminum foil, basting brush
Cuisine Type: American BBQ

Spicy BBQ Smoked Turkey Legs are a mouthwatering delight that brings the flavors of the barbecue right to your backyard. The combination of a spicy dry rub and a smoky cooking method not only enhances the natural flavor of the turkey legs but also infuses them with a rich depth that’s hard to resist.

This recipe is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or any outdoor event where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Smoking turkey legs is a slow process that allows the meat to become tender and juicy, while the crispy skin adds an irresistible crunch.

The spice rub can be customized to suit your heat preference, making it a versatile dish for those who enjoy a little extra kick. Once smoked, these turkey legs aren’t only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate, making them a standout dish at any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (for basting)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your smoker or grill for indirect cooking. If using a smoker, preheat it to 225°F (107°C). If using a grill, set up a two-zone fire with one side for direct heat and the other for indirect cooking.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create the spice rub. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels, then rub the olive oil over them followed by the spice mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
3. Once your smoker or grill is ready, place the seasoned turkey legs on the indirect heat side. Close the lid and allow them to smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), using a meat thermometer for accuracy.
4. After the turkey legs have been smoking for about 1.5 hours, begin basting them with your favorite BBQ sauce every 30 minutes. This will help to build a flavorful glaze on the turkey legs while keeping the meat moist.
5. Once the turkey legs are fully cooked, remove them from the smoker or grill and wrap them loosely in aluminum foil. Let them rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

Extra Tips: For added smokiness, consider using wood chips such as hickory or applewood in your smoker. If you prefer a sweeter BBQ sauce, you can mix in a bit of honey or brown sugar to enhance the flavor.

These turkey legs pair beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. Enjoy your deliciously spicy BBQ smoked turkey legs!

Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey Legs

Title: Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey Legs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Roasting pan, mixing bowl, basting brush, meat thermometer
Cuisine Type: American

Maple Mustard Glazed Turkey Legs are a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the sweet, rich flavor of maple syrup and the tangy zest of mustard. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a celebratory gathering.

The turkey legs become tender and juicy as they roast in the oven, while the glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a mouthwatering coating that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This dish isn’t only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of maple syrup and mustard offers a unique taste that pairs perfectly with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning meal that will impress your guests and warm your home.

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Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a roasting pan by lining it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This will also help to keep the turkey legs moist during cooking.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will be your glaze, adding both flavor and moisture to the turkey legs.
3. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to assure the skin crisps up nicely during roasting. Place the turkey legs in the prepared roasting pan and brush them generously with the maple mustard glaze, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Roast the turkey legs in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting them with the glaze every 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
5. Once the turkey legs are cooked through and the skin is golden brown, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, assuring each bite is tender and juicy.
6. Serve the glazed turkey legs garnished with fresh thyme, if desired, and enjoy them alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the turkey legs in the glaze for a few hours or overnight before roasting. You can also experiment with different mustards, such as whole grain or honey mustard, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

If you have leftovers, the glazed turkey legs can be shredded and used in sandwiches or salads for a delicious next-day meal. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Herb-Crusted Smoked Turkey Legs

Title: Herb-Crusted Smoked Turkey Legs
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 120 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Smoker or grill, meat thermometer, mixing bowl, basting brush
Cuisine Type: American

Herb-Crusted Smoked Turkey Legs are a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the smoky essence of outdoor cooking right to your table. The combination of aromatic herbs and spices creates a delicious crust that enhances the natural flavors of the turkey.

Cooking these legs in a smoker allows the meat to absorb the rich flavors of the wood, resulting in tender, juicy turkey legs that are perfect for any gathering or special occasion. This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

The herb crust not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation, making these turkey legs a standout dish at your next barbecue or holiday feast. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal that your family and friends will love.

Ingredients:

• 4 smoked turkey legs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your smoker or grill for indirect cooking. If using a smoker, preheat it to 225°F (107°C). If using a grill, set it up for indirect heat by placing coals or burners on one side and leaving the other side clear for the turkey legs.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a paste-like herb crust.
3. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the herb crust adhere better and create a nice crust during smoking.
4. Generously rub the herb mixture all over the turkey legs, ensuring to coat them evenly. Get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.
5. Place the coated turkey legs on the smoker or the indirect heat side of the grill. Close the lid and smoke the turkey legs for approximately 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
6. Once cooked, remove the turkey legs from the smoker or grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for a more succulent bite.

Extra Tips: To enhance the flavor even further, consider marinating the turkey legs overnight in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and spices. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of wood chips for smoking, such as hickory or applewood, to create unique flavor profiles.

Always remember to monitor the temperature closely, as smoking times can vary based on the size of the turkey legs and the heat of your smoker or grill. Enjoy your herb-crusted turkey legs with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!

Citrus-Infused Smoked Turkey Legs

Title: Citrus-Infused Smoked Turkey Legs
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Smoker or grill with a lid, large mixing bowl, basting brush, meat thermometer, aluminum foil
Cuisine Type: American

Citrus-Infused Smoked Turkey Legs are a delicious and flavorful option for your next outdoor gathering or family dinner. The infusion of citrus not only enhances the taste of the turkey legs but also helps keep the meat moist during the smoking process.

This recipe combines the zesty flavors of oranges, lemons, and limes with a savory marinade that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Smoking turkey legs is a simple and rewarding process that results in tender, juicy meat with a delightful smoky flavor.

The citrus marinade penetrates the meat, creating a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue, holiday feast, or just for a cozy dinner at home, these Citrus-Infused Smoked Turkey Legs will surely be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in the marinade and make sure they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
3. Preheat your smoker or grill to a temperature of 225°F (107°C). If using a grill, set it up for indirect grilling by placing coals on one side and leaving the other side empty for the turkey legs.
4. Remove the turkey legs from the marinade and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Reserve the marinade for basting later. Place the turkey legs on the smoker or grill grates, ensuring they aren’t directly over the heat source.
5. Smoke the turkey legs for approximately 3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), basting with the reserved marinade every hour. This will enhance the flavor and moisture of the turkey legs.
6. Once the turkey legs are fully cooked, remove them from the smoker or grill and loosely cover them with aluminum foil. Let them rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding citrus slices directly on top of the turkey legs while they smoke. This will create a lovely aroma and enhance the citrus notes.

If you prefer a slightly crispy skin, increase the heat during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Always use a meat thermometer to verify your turkey legs reach the safe internal temperature for peak juiciness. Enjoy your flavorful citrus-infused creation!

Smoky Chipotle Turkey Legs

Title: Smoky Chipotle Turkey Legs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Required Equipment List: Grill or smoker, meat thermometer, aluminum foil, basting brush, mixing bowl
Cuisine Type: American-Mexican

Smoky Chipotle Turkey Legs bring a bold and zesty flavor to your dinner table, combining the rich taste of smoked turkey with the fiery kick of chipotle. This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings or family dinners, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its vibrant taste and aroma.

The process of smoking turkey legs allows the meat to absorb all the flavors of the spices and wood, resulting in an incredibly juicy and tender dish that’s hard to resist. The chipotle marinade adds a unique twist, infusing the turkey legs with a smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with the natural richness of the meat.

By letting the turkey legs marinate for a few hours or overnight, you enhance the flavors even further. Serve these turkey legs with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables, for a complete and satisfying meal that captures the essence of outdoor cooking.

Ingredients:

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chipotle powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the marinade for the turkey legs. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, chipotle powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, add the honey to the mixture and stir until well blended.
2. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to guarantee the marinade adheres properly. Place the turkey legs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or smoker to a temperature of 225°F (107°C). If using a smoker, add your choice of wood chips, such as hickory or applewood, to create a delicious smoky flavor.
4. Remove the turkey legs from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the grill or smoker, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Close the lid and let them smoke for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
5. Once cooked, remove the turkey legs from the grill or smoker and wrap them in aluminum foil for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing a moist and flavorful bite.
6. Serve the smoky chipotle turkey legs warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and watch them disappear from the plate!

Extra Tips: When preparing your turkey legs, you can experiment with different spices and heat levels by adjusting the amount of chipotle powder or adding cayenne pepper for extra kick.

If you’re short on time, you can skip marinating and simply rub the spice blend directly onto the turkey legs before cooking. For an added smoky flavor, consider adding some wood chips to your grill even if you aren’t using a smoker. Enjoy your cooking experience and the delicious results!

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got these delicious smoked turkey leg recipes in your back pocket, it’s time to fire up that smoker and let the magic happen! Picture yourself biting into those tender, flavor-packed legs, surrounded by friends and family, laughter filling the air. Isn’t it time to impress your loved ones with a feast they won’t forget? So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients and turn your kitchen into a smokehouse paradise!

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