Grilling turkey legs is a fantastic way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for summer cookouts or any time you want that smoky, charred goodness. Turkey legs are larger and meatier than chicken drumsticks, so they make a hearty, satisfying dish that’s fun to eat. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook turkey legs on the grill just right, this guide will walk you through everything from seasoning to grilling techniques, ensuring your turkey legs come out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Preparing Your Turkey Legs for the Grill
Choose and Prep Your Turkey Legs
Start with fresh or fully thawed turkey legs. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and to promote even browning on the grill.
Seasoning and Marinades
A good seasoning or marinade is key. You can keep it simple or go bold with spices. Here are two popular options:
– Butter and Spice Rub: Melted butter mixed with salt, garlic powder, seasoned salt, paprika, ground ginger, pepper, dried basil, and cayenne pepper makes a rich, flavorful coating. Brush this all over the turkey legs before grilling.
– Spiced Marinade: Combine olive oil, vinegar, sugar, paprika, basil, salt, garlic, mustard powder, cinnamon, cayenne, onion powder, and turmeric. Marinate the turkey legs in this mixture for 1-2 hours in the fridge to infuse deep flavor.
Grilling Turkey Legs: Step-by-Step
1. Preheat Your Grill
Set your grill for indirect medium heat-this means the coals or burners are on one side, and you cook the turkey legs on the cooler side to avoid burning while allowing them to cook through. Aim for a temperature around 300°F to 350°F.
2. Sear Over Direct Heat (Optional but Recommended)
Start by placing the turkey legs directly over the heat to sear and get a nice crust. Rotate the legs every 5 minutes to evenly brown all sides. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
3. Move to Indirect Heat
After searing, move the turkey legs to the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 40 to 45 minutes, turning occasionally. The goal is to cook the meat through without drying it out.
4. Check the Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The turkey legs are safe and juicy at an internal temperature of 165°F, but some prefer cooking them to about 175°F for tenderness, especially with larger legs.
5. Crisp the Skin (Optional)
If you want extra crispy skin, after the turkey legs are cooked through, brush them with oil and place them back over direct high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds a delicious crunch.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Turkey Legs
– Brine for Extra Juiciness: Soaking turkey legs in a brine (water, salt, sugar, and spices) for 4 to 24 hours before grilling helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
– Use Wood Chips for Smoky Flavor: Adding wood chips to your charcoal or gas grill enhances the smoky aroma that pairs beautifully with turkey.
– Rest Your Meat: Let the turkey legs rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
– Rotate Regularly: Turning the legs every 5 minutes during cooking ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Classic BBQ: Season with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne, then baste with your favorite BBQ sauce near the end of cooking for a sticky, flavorful finish.
– State Fair Style: Use a simple rub of seasoned salt, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Roast in the oven first, then finish on a hot grill to crisp the skin, mimicking the famous fair turkey legs.
– Herb and Garlic: Mix melted butter with garlic, basil, and paprika for a fragrant, savory flavor that’s simple but delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
– A gas or charcoal grill capable of indirect heat
– Meat thermometer for checking internal temperature
– Basting brush for applying marinades or butter mixtures
– Tongs for turning turkey legs safely
Grilling turkey legs is straightforward and rewarding. With the right seasoning, temperature control, and a little patience, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that’s juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor every time.
Enjoy your grilled turkey legs with your favorite sides and sauces for a perfect meal!
Turkey legs are a delicious, fun, and satisfying grilling option that’s sure to impress at your next cookout. Happy grilling!