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How to BBQ Turkey Legs

Prepare for finger-lickin’ good BBQ turkey legs with this complete guide. We’ll cover every step of how to bbq turkey legs, from choosing and prepping the meat to flavorful recipes, cooking methods, and serving suggestions. With the right techniques, you’ll be feasting on juicy, tender and irresistibly delicious bbq turkey legs in no time.

Choosing and Preparing Turkey Legs for BBQ

Selecting quality turkey legs is the first step to perfect bbq. Here’s what to look for:

  • Weight – Choose heavy legs between 1-2 pounds each. Lighter legs can dry out on the grill.
  • Size – Opt for thick, meaty legs rather than skinny ones. Thicker legs hold moisture better.
  • Appearance – Pick legs that are pinkish in color with smooth, shiny skin and no blemishes or tears. Avoid discolored spots.
  • Flexibility – Gently bend the leg. It should be stiff, not limp, indicating freshness.

Once you’ve selected quality turkey legs, proper prep ensures they cook up tender and flavorful:

  • Rinse and pat dry – Give legs a cold water bath, then thoroughly pat dry with paper towels. Moisture interferes with browning.
  • Trim excess fat/skin – For healthier BBQ, trim off any loose skin or large fatty areas. Leave skin on drumsticks.
  • Poke holes – Use a fork to poke holes all over the legs. This allows marinade and smoke to penetrate deeper.
  • Apply rub – For extra flavor and browning, coat legs with a dry rub before marinating. Gently massage it in.
  • Marinate overnight – Soak legs for 8-12 hours in the fridge in your choice of marinade. This infuses them with flavor.

That’s it! Your turkey legs are now ready to grill.

BBQ Turkey Leg Marinade Recipes

Marinating is key for moist, flavorful turkey on the barbecue. Try these tasty marinades:

Basic BBQ Marinade

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Whisk together all ingredients. Marinate legs 8-12 hours.

Greek Yogurt Marinade

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 4 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Mix together marinade ingredients. Coat legs and refrigerate 8 hours, turning occasionally.

Asian Marinade

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp minced ginger
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Combine all ingredients. Marinate legs 12 hours for extra flavor.

Jamaican Jerk Marinade

  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 minced habanero pepper
  • 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
  • 4 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Mix together marinade. Pour over legs in a sealed bag. Refrigerate overnight, turning bag occasionally.

BBQ Turkey Leg Dry Rub Recipes

Dry rubs give turkey legs an amazing crust and concentrated flavor. Apply to legs before marinating.

BBQ Spice Rub

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Combine spices. Generously coat legs, pressing lightly to adhere.

Jerk Dry Rub

  • 1 tbsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 2 tsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Mix rub ingredients. Pat evenly onto legs before marinating.

Coffee Rub

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ancho chili powder
  • 1 tbsp coffee grounds
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Whisk together ingredients. Lightly coat legs, massaging in rub.

How to BBQ Turkey Legs on a Grill

Grilling turkey legs over direct high heat helps create that perfect crispy skin and smoky flavor. Follow these steps:

1. Prep Grill

  • Oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
  • Preheat grill to medium high (400-450°F).
  • Use a 2-zone fire, with high heat on one side and low heat on the other.

2. Cook Legs

  • Place legs skin-side down over direct high heat.
  • Grill 10-15 minutes until skin browns and chars.
  • Move legs over low indirect heat, skin-side up.
  • Cover grill and cook 40-60 minutes until meat registers 165°F.
  • Brush with BBQ sauce during last 10 minutes if desired.

3. Rest and Serve

  • Transfer legs to a platter and tent with foil.
  • Let rest 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  • Serve legs with your favorite BBQ sides like coleslaw, beans, and cornbread. Enjoy!

How to BBQ Turkey Legs in the Oven

For easy oven-barbecued turkey legs, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat and Prep

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
  • Pat turkey legs dry and coat all over with oil or nonstick spray.
  • Place legs skin-side up on prepared pan, leaving space between each.

2. Roast

  • Roast legs 45-60 minutes until deep golden brown and cooked through (165°F).
  • Flip legs halfway during cooking to evenly brown.
  • Brush with BBQ sauce for the last 15 minutes if desired.

3. Finish and Serve

  • Remove legs from oven, tent with foil and let rest 10 minutes.
  • Serve with your favorite BBQ sides and enjoy! The skin will be crispy and meat juicy.

How Long to Cook BBQ Turkey Legs

Turkey legs can take some time to become tender and fully-cooked on the barbecue. Follow these general cooking guidelines:

  • Grilling – Grill for a total of 50-75 minutes over indirect heat. Check temperature.
  • Smoking – Smoke turkey legs for 2-3 hours at 225-250°F until 165°F.
  • Baking – Roast in the oven 45-60 minutes until cooked through.
  • Deep frying – Fry for 12-15 minutes at 350°F. Legs cook quickly submerged in hot oil.
  • Slow cooker – Cook legs on low heat for 6-8 hours for fall-off-the-bone meat.

Use an instant read thermometer to check internal temperature, which should reach 165°F when done. If unsure, pierce legs deeply with a knife tip to test for doneness. Cook longer if juices run pink.

How to Tell When BBQ Turkey Legs Are Done

It can be tricky knowing exactly when turkey legs are fully cooked on the grill. Here are some telltale signs they’re done:

  • Internal temperature registers 165°F on a meat thermometer. This is the foolproof way to check doneness.
  • Meat has pulled back from the bones 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Natural separation indicates complete cooking.
  • Leg moves loosely in the hip joint when rotated. It shouldn’t seem stiff.
  • Juices run clear, not pink, when meat is pierced deeply with a knife tip. Pink juices mean it needs more time.
  • Skin is nicely browned and feels crispy when touched.
  • Meat texture is fork tender and no longer rubbery when pierced in thickest part.

If unsure, you can always return legs to the grill for 5-10 extra minutes until completely cooked through. Enjoy your perfectly barbecued turkey legs!

Troubleshooting Tricky Turkey Legs on the BBQ

Smoking turkey legs can sometimes be tricky. Here are solutions to common issues:

Problem: Skin won’t get crispy.

Solution: Make sure legs are thoroughly patted dry before grilling. Apply a dry rub for extra crisping. Grill over direct high heat skin-side down first.

Problem: Meat is underdone and rubbery.

Solution: Cook for the full recommended time, and always double check internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Legs may need extra time if underdone.

Problem: Legs are overcooked and dry.

Solution: Be careful not to overcook. Use an instant read thermometer as legs can dry out easily. Don’t cook past 165°F.

Problem: Leg meat is tough.

Solution: Only grill larger, well-marbled legs. Marinate overnight to tenderize. Cook slowly over indirect heat, not direct high heat.

Problem: Skin sticks to the grill.

Solution: Oil grates thoroughly before cooking. Give sticky skin an extra rub of oil. Move to indirect heat sooner if charring.

Problem: Meat lacks flavor.

Solution: Always marinate legs 12+ hours to infuse flavor. Apply dry rubs and smoke with wood chunks for extra flavor.

With the right techniques and recipes, you can avoid potential pitfalls and enjoy the very best bbq turkey legs!

Awesome Side Dishes for BBQ Turkey Legs

Now that you’ve mastered the main event, complete your bbq turkey legs feast with these mouthwatering sides:

  • Baked Beans – Sweet, smoky and hearty. The classic BBQ companion.
  • Coleslaw – Cool, creamy cabbage balances the rich turkey.
  • Cornbread – Buttery, golden wedges are made for soaking up juices.
  • Mac and Cheese – Ooey-gooey mac is a backyard favorite.
  • Potato Salad – Chunky spuds tossed in tangy dressing.
  • Corn on the Cob – Grilled and slathered in butter.
  • Collard Greens – Slow-cooked greens, seasoned with bacon.
  • Watermelon Slices – Juicy, refreshing fruit cuts greasiness.
  • Cucumber Salad – Crisp cucumbers in vinegary dressing.

Mix and match your favorite sides for an amazing spread. Now dig into those finger-lickin’ good turkey legs!

FAQs About Making BBQ Turkey Legs

Get answers to the most common questions about grilling up the perfect bbq turkey legs:

Should turkey legs be marinated before grilling?

Yes, marinating is highly recommended for added moisture and flavor. Soak legs 8-12 hours in the marinade of your choice.

What is the best wood for smoking turkey legs?

Hickory and apple woods give great classic barbecue flavor. Mesquite imparts a stronger taste.

What temperature do you cook turkey legs on a grill?

Cook indirectly over medium heat around 325-375°F until 165°F internal temperature. Direct high heat can dry them out.

How long does it take to grill turkey legs?

Allow 50-75 minutes total cooking time. Grill for 10-15 minutes skin-side down over direct heat, then finish over indirect low heat until done.

Can you grill turkey legs from frozen?

Yes, but thaw them first in the fridge 1-2 days. Grilling frozen legs will result in uneven, unsafe cooking.

Can you grill turkey legs ahead of time?

Absolutely. Grill legs until 10°F below final temperature. Cool, refrigerate, then reheat briefly on the grill before serving.

What is the best BBQ turkey leg recipe?

A classic barbecue spice rub and marinade recipe like the Basic BBQ Marinade provides amazing savory flavor.

How do you keep turkey legs from drying out on grill?

Marinate legs, cook indirectly over moderate heat, and utilize a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking. Tenting with foil also helps.

Now that you’re a pro at making mouthwatering bbq turkey legs, fire up the grill and enjoy the finger-lickin’ feast!

How to BBQ Turkey Legs: A Complete Guide

Barbecuing turkey legs may seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, you can create the juiciest, most flavorful and tender smoked turkey legs ever. This guide covers everything from selecting meat to secret recipes, cooking times, temperature and wood chips. Follow these tips and tricks for spectacular results.

Choosing Turkey Legs for BBQ

Look for quality legs for the best results:

  • Weight – Select legs that are 1-2 pounds each. Overly large or small legs won’t cook evenly.
  • Appearance – Choose legs that are pinkish in color with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any with blemishes.
  • Thickness – Opt for thick, meaty drumsticks rather than skinnier ones, which can dry out.
  • Flexibility – The leg joint should be stiff, not limp, when you gently bend it. This indicates freshness.

The ideal turkey legs for barbecuing are plump, smooth and firm. Avoid any with tears, bruises or discoloration.

Prepping Turkey Legs for the Grill

Proper prep is key for maximum tenderness and flavor:

  • Wash – Give legs a cold water bath, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture prevents browning.
  • Trim – Using a sharp knife, trim off any loose skin, fat or cartilage. Leave skin intact on drumsticks.
  • Poke – Use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. This allows smoke to penetrate deeply.
  • Apply rub – For fantastic flavor, coat legs with a savory dry rub. Massage it into the meat.
  • Marinate – Soak legs 8-12 hours in your favorite bold marinade in the fridge.

Now they’re ready for perfect, flavorful smoking!

Amazing Turkey Leg Dry Rub Recipes

Amp up the flavor with these easy homemade dry rubs:

BBQ Spice Rub

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp granulated garlic
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Cajun Rub

  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp white pepper

Jamaican Jerk Rub

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1⁄2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1⁄4 tsp cayenne pepper

Fantastic BBQ Turkey Marinades

Soak turkey legs overnight in one of these flavor-packed marinades:

Apple Cider Marinade

  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1⁄2 tsp each salt and pepper

Asian Marinade

  • 1⁄2 cup soy sauce
  • 1⁄4 cup honey
  • 3 minced garlic cloves
  • 1⁄4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp minced ginger
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1⁄4 tsp red pepper flakes

Beer Marinade

  • 1 cup beer
  • 1⁄4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1⁄2 tsp each salt and pepper

BBQ Turkey Leg Cooking Methods

Grilling – For crispy skin and smoky flavor, grill legs over indirect medium heat for 1-1 1⁄2 hours, turning occasionally. Finish by brushing with barbecue sauce.

Smoking – For ultra-tender meat, smoke legs for 2-3 hours at 225°F using hickory, apple, cherry or mesquite wood.

Baking – Roast legs at 375°F for 60-75 minutes until cooked through. For crispier skin, start legs skin-side down.

Slow Cooker – Cook legs on low heat for 6-8 hours. The slow, moist heat makes meat fall-off-the-bone tender.

Deep Frying – Fry legs for 10-12 minutes at 350°F for perfectly crispy skin and moist meat.

Always allow legs to rest for 10 minutes before serving for juiciest results. Enjoy!

How Long to Cook Turkey Legs on the Grill

Turkey legs can take some time to become tender and

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