If you love smoked turkey legs, you’re not alone. These mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone treats are a staple at fairs, festivals, and even Disney World. But you don’t have to wait for a holiday dinner or special occasions to enjoy them. Whether you have store bought, pre-smoked, or precooked turkey legs from grocery stores, knowing the best way to reheat them makes all the difference. The wrong method can leave them dry and rubbery, but the right cooking technique will keep them juicy, tender, and full of savory flavors.
Many people have frequently asked questions about the method to reheat these deliciously salty turkey legs. Some prefer grilled, oven baked, or air fried options, while others choose to simmer them in chicken broth with onion, aromatics, and a 2-ingredient recipe for extra moisture. To ensure they are properly reheated, use water in a pot, let them cook for 30 minutes, and turn them gently for even heat. If you want a crispier texture, try using an air fried method for that crispy crust and glossy finish.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the 4 methods I tested and evaluate the best results. Whether you’re preparing a main dish for a holiday dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or a classic comfort food, this guide will help you prep, cover, cook, and serve your turkey drumsticks perfectly. If you’re looking for more easy meal ideas, check out this Healthy take out style velvet chicken easy recipe a dish that’s just as juicy and satisfying. You can also find the Best Healthy take out style velvet chicken guide to make your home-cooked meals even better!
Why are Smoked Turkey Legs So Popular?
Smoked turkey legs are a top pick at theme parks, fairs, and festivals. They are big, easy to grab, and fun to eat. The meat is tastier and easier to prepare than an entire bird. Fans of dark meat enjoy the rich flavor, and the way these legs are slow cooked makes them even better. At places like Disney, you’ll see people walking around, enjoying them like a caveman holding a stick. They are ready to eat, making them a perfect go-to meal. Whether at a Renaissance fair or a backyard BBQ, they are meant to be devoured with both hands. You might even feel the weight of one in your forearm as you tear into it! Their popularity keeps growing, and for a good reason.
Should you season pre cooked turkey legs?
If you’re wondering whether to season your smoked turkey legs, the answer is yes, but with some care. Since smoked turkey is already cooked, it can be a bit high in sodium, so using a low in sodium seasoning is key. I love to add a bbq rub or poultry seasoning for an extra layer of flavor, without making it too salty. You can even try a chicken rub and reduce the amount of salt by half to keep the taste balanced. A good bbq rub will give that perfect kick and elevate the already great smoky flavor, ensuring your turkey doesn’t lack the zest it deserves. If you want a more versatile option, an all purpose bbq rub of your choice can work wonders too!
Where to buy pre-smoked turkey legs?
You can find pre-smoked turkey legs at many grocery stores, especially during the holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Big-name retailers such as Walmart, Costco, Kroger’s, and Publix keep them in stock. They cost around $7 each, making them an affordable treat. If you prefer convenience, you can order them online from different food chains and have them shipped straight to your front door. There’s a variety of options to choose from, making it easy to get the perfect pack for your next meal.
How to Choose the Best Turkey Legs for Smoking
If you want to start smoking turkey legs, you need to know where to buy them. Some supermarkets only stock them during the holiday season, so plan ahead. You can ask your butcher about availability or place a special order. If you prefer, you can find frozen or raw legs online. When shopping, pick ones with unblemished skin and avoid any with yellow spots or discoloration. That means they’ve been sitting on the shelf too long and could be dry or gone bad. Buying fresh meat is the key to great flavor!
Recipe Ingredients
Cooking already smoked turkey legs can be made even more delicious with the right ingredients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need:
Turkey Legs: The star of the show! Whether you pick up smoked turkey legs from your local grocery stores or butcher section, they’re available year-round and can be found at the meat counter. If you can’t find them, you can always special order them. Once you’ve got them, rinse the legs under cold water, pat dry with a clean towel, and make sure they’re well-seasoned before cooking.
White or Chicken Broth: You’ll need enough broth to cover the turkey legs in a large stock pot or heavy bottom pan. This helps to keep the turkey moist while it cooks and infuses it with extra flavor.
Onion and Garlic: Adding onion and garlic will enhance the savory flavors of the turkey. These are delicious and sharp aromatics that will complement the smoky notes of the meat. While optional, I highly recommend them for an added balance and to make the drumsticks more succulent.
Bay Leaf: This earthy and floral herb enhances the savoriness of the meat. Tossing in a bay leaf with the garlic and onion will give your turkey a deeper flavor profile.
Brown Sugar: For a little sweetness, use either light brown sugar or dark brown sugar. I prefer dark for its richer, deeper caramel flavors, but if you like a sweeter touch, light brown works just as well. It will add a nice contrast to the savory flavors.
Kosher Salt: You can use kosher salt for a clean, balanced seasoning. If you’re using table salt, be sure to reduce the amount by half to avoid over-salting the turkey.
Pink Himalayan Sea Salt: For a unique twist, try pink Himalayan salt. It’s not only visually striking with its naturally pink color but also loaded with minerals that offer health benefits and a slightly different flavor than regular salt. You can find it at the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
How to cook store bought smoked turkey legs
Before warming your store-bought smoked turkey legs, start with proper preparation. Give them a quick rinse under cool water to remove excess saltiness from the surface. Pat them dry with paper towels and dab off any extra moisture. Choose a deep pot, skillet, or any heavy cookware that fits the legs without making them feel cramped. For the best method, pour in chicken broth or plain water, ensuring the liquid covers at least midway up the legs. Adding onions, garlic, or a bay leaf will enhance the flavor while maintaining a moist and tender texture.
Set your stove to medium heat and bring the broth to a bubbling simmer before lowering it to the lowest setting. Cover with a lid to trap the steam and prevent the skin from becoming dry or rubbery. Let the legs heat for 20-30 minutes, or longer if you prefer a fall off the bone texture around 30 minutes more. The brining process, if done before smoking, helps lock in juiciness and prevents moisture loss, ensuring the final product remains tender and not drier. Avoid using the microwave, as it will ruin the profile of the meat and leave it desiccated. This procedure guarantees delicious results with every bite!
How to Brine a Turkey Leg for Smoking?
Brining adds flavor and keeps turkey legs juicy while smoking. A classic brine uses 1 gallon of water, 1 cup of salt, and brown sugar, but adding liquid smoke, black peppercorns, and allspice berries enhances the taste. The brine bath helps the meat stay moist and creates a crispy skin when cooked. Follow these steps to get the best results.
Steps to Brine Turkey Legs
Step 1: In a large pot, combine 1/2 cup Morton Tender Quick Home Meat Cure, 2 bay leaves, Traeger Rub, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder with warm water. Boil, stirring until dissolved.
Step 2: Add 4 cups of ice and cool water to bring the brine to room temperature.
Step 3: Place drumsticks into a large container and pour the brine over them. Ensure they are submerged and let them soak in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours.
Step 4: After brining, rinse the turkey legs well and pat dry with a paper towel. Let them sit to finish drying before cooking.
Step 5: Preheat the smoker to 275°F–300°F before placing the legs inside.
Step 6: Cook for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches a minimum of 167°F.
This quick brine method enhances the flavor and makes the legs tender with a perfect smoky taste.
Best Way to Season a Turkey Leg
After brining, go easy on the salt since the brine has already introduced plenty into the meat. Use a dry rub with ground spices and herbs to season the turkey leg perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Buying turkey legs is easy if you know where to look. Many stores store fresh and frozen options, but check the fridge section for the best quality.
Storage: Keep leftover legs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and put in a 350°F oven. Let them warm for 45 minutes to 1 hour until fully heated.
Side dishes
Cornbread is easy to make. Use a box mix or combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, milk, and an egg. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden.
For Black-Eyed Peas, start with canned peas. Sauté onion and garlic in a pot, then simmer the peas with some of their liquid. Season with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Candied Yams are sweet and rich. Slice yams thinly, layer them in a baking dish, add brown sugar and butter, then cover and bake until caramelized and tender.
For Mac and Cheese, boil macaroni, then mix it with cheese, butter, and milk. Bake until the top is bubbly and golden.
How to Cook Smoked Turkey Legs in the Oven
To prepare pre-cooked smoked turkey legs, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a baking sheet down and cover it with aluminum foil. Put the drumsticks on top and sprinkle them with water or broth to avoid drying out.
Wrap the legs loosely, then roast at a low temperature for about 6 to 8 minutes per pound. Use a food thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165 F, as recommended by the USDA. This method helps to reheat the cooked turkey evenly without making it tough.
How long to reheat turkey legs?
Reheating turkey legs depends on their size and the heat of your oven. Typically, it takes around 20-30 minutes at 350°F to warm them up. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and make sure they’re properly heated. Don’t just rely on time—trust me, from experience, it’s best to get it right to avoid any heart-ache.
Other Ways to Cook Smoked Turkey Legs
Oven baked
To cook smoked turkey legs in the oven, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Place the turkey legs on a wire cooking rack over a baking sheet. This will allow the heat to circulate around the turkey, making it tender and moist. You can season the turkey legs with bbq rub or poultry seasoning for extra flavor. Cook them for about 35 minutes or until they reach an internal temp of 165°F, ensuring they’re cooked through and hot. For added moisture, place a foil pan underneath with some chicken broth to create steam and keep the turkey from drying out. This method gives the turkey a nice baked, smoky flavor.
Air Fried
To cook your smoked turkey leg in the air fryer, start by removing it from the packaging and patting it dry with paper towels. Next, rub the leg with olive oil and lightly season with bbq or poultry seasoning. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and place the turkey leg inside. Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temp reaches 165°F. The result? A crispy skin, tender, and evenly cooked turkey leg that’s hot and ready to enjoy. This method is one of my favorite ways to cook it!
Smoked
To bring out the best smoke flavor in your pre smoked turkey legs, season them with a good bbq rub and fire up your pellet smoker. Use apple wood or cherry for a delicate, sweet smoke, or hickory or mesquite for a stronger flavor. Set your smoker to 225°F, and cook until the internal temperature hits 165°F. For extra flavor, brush on some bbq sauce during the last minutes of cooking, then raise the temperature to 275°F to let the sauce tack up on the meat. This method will give you a perfect smoky turkey that tastes like something from Disney World or a state fair.
Grilled
To make grilled smoked turkey legs, start by coating them in olive oil and seasoning with bbq rub. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the turkey legs on the grill and cook, flipping them a few times. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to reach 165°F. This ensures the meat is fully cooked and has a nice, crispy char on the outside. The result is delicious turkey with great texture and a flavorful finish.
Slow Cooker
To make your smoked turkey legs even more tender and juicy, you can use a slow cooker. Start by placing the drumsticks in the slow cooker and adding enough broth or water to cover them. I usually add chicken stock for extra flavor. Set the slow cooker on low and let it cook for about 45 minutes until the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 F. After that, remove the turkey legs and let them cool before serving. The liquid helps keep the turkey moist, making it a perfect method for juicy and tender turkey legs.
Smoked Turkey Leg Recipes
Try something new with your smoked leg using these unique seasoning and preparation ideas.
Smoked Turkey Legs
Prepare the Brine – Mix 1 cup Traeger Rub, 1/2 cup Morton Tender Quick Home Meat Cure, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon crushed allspice berries (optional), 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, 2 bay leaves, and 2 teaspoons liquid smoke.
Brine the Turkey – Submerge 4 turkey legs in the mixture and let them soak for at least 5 hours to keep them moist and tasty.
Set Up the Smoker – Use a low and slow heat to enhance the smoked flavor and cook the turkey evenly.
Smoke the Turkey – Place the legs inside and let them smoke until fully cooked and infused with flavor.
Final Touch – Let the smoked turkey legs rest before serving to lock in the seasoning and moisture.
Smoked Turkey Legs With Brown Butter and Bourbon Glaze
Brine the Turkey – Mix 2 gallons water, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup kosher salt, 4 bay leaves, 10 peppercorns, and 4 sprigs thyme. Soak 8 turkey legs in this brine to make them juicy and flavorful.
Season the Legs – Pat dry and coat with olive oil, then rub with a blend of garlic powder and kosher salt mix, and chopped rosemary for extra taste.
Set Up the Smoker – Use the combo method by smoking the legs at a low temperature for about 2 hours to enhance the flavor.
Make the Glaze – In a pan, heat 8 tablespoons butter until browned, then stir in 1/2 cup maple syrup and 1/2 cup bourbon to create a rich, sticky glaze.
Glaze and Finish Cooking – Brush the glazed mixture over the turkey in the final minutes of the smoking process to give it a deep, smoky-sweet coating.
Final Touch – Let the turkey rest before serving to lock in all the delicious flavors.
Injected Drunken Smoked Turkey Legs
Prepare the Injection – Mix 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup bourbon, 1/2 cup whiskey, 1 bottle Frank’s RedHot Sauce, 1/2 cup chicken stock, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning to create a flavorful mixture.
Brine the Turkey – Soak 6 large turkey legs in a brined solution to ensure juiciness and deep flavor.
Inject the Legs – Using a meat injector, fill the turkey legs with the prepared bourbon-laced mixture to enhance the smoky taste.
Season the Outside – Rub the legs with minced garlic, melted butter, and extra Cajun seasoning for a bold kick.
Cook Time and Temperature – Smoke the injected legs at a low temperature for about 3 hours until fully cooked and flavorful.
Final Touch – Let the turkey rest before serving to lock in the smoky and spicy flavors.
How To Cook Already Smoked Turkey Legs
Description
Get juicy, fall-off-the-bone smoked turkey legs fast! Oven, air fryer, or stovetop—easy methods for the perfect heat-up in minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's at the right temperature for baking.
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Prepare the Turkey Legs
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If your smoked turkey legs are cold, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to take the chill off. This will help them cook more evenly
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Seasoning
Rub the smoked turkey legs with olive oil for a crispier skin. Then, season the turkey legs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure to coat the entire surface evenly.
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Add Moisture
Pour chicken broth into a baking dish. This will help keep the turkey legs moist while baking.
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Bake
Place the seasoned turkey legs into the baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
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Optional
For extra flavor and richness, melt butter and brush it over the turkey legs halfway through baking.
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Final Touch
After the turkey legs are fully heated through, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the skin to crisp up. If you like extra crispy skin, you can broil them for a few minutes.
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Serve
Once fully cooked, remove the turkey legs from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 330kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 130mg44%
- Sodium 850mg36%
- Protein 40g80%
- Vitamin A 2 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 2 mg
- Iron 8 mg
* Note: These values are approximations and may vary depending on the exact brands and ingredients used.
Note
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This Smoked Turkey Legs recipe delivers a tender, smoky flavor with a crispy skin, perfect for any BBQ or holiday meal. It's easy to make with a flavorful marinade and simple cooking method, guaranteed to impress your guests!
