Air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook turkey legs and turn them into a crispy and juicy treat. You can serve these Roasted Turkey Legs as a weeknight meal or on any occasion. The early prep and cooking process is very simple, and anyone can easily follow it.
This post will help you learn how to cook turkey legs in air fryer. You will also learn expert tips, how to serve, recipe variations, and answers to common FAQs.
Why Cook Air Fryer Turkey Legs?
- Air fryer turkey legs are a healthier option than deep-fried ones. By using minimal oil, you can enjoy a delicious, crispy treat without worrying about excessive calories and fat content.
- Air frying ensures that the turkey legs turn out perfectly crispy on the outside while retaining their juiciness and tenderness on the inside.
- Cooking in an air fryer significantly reduces the mess in the kitchen. Simply remove the basket, give it a wash, and you're done.
- Air fryer turkey legs are not limited to special occasions. You can enjoy this delightful dish any day of the week.
Ingredients
- Turkey Legs - 2
- Olive Oil (or Unsalted Butter) - 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme - 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Smoked Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
- Kosher Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
- Black Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Paper Towels
- Mixing Bowl
- Kitchen Tongs
- Basting Brush
- Cooking Spray
- Meat Thermometer
How To Cook Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the air fryer is hot and ready for cooking.
- Prepare the Turkey Legs:
- Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare a marinade by combining olive oil (or unsalted butter), garlic powder, dried thyme, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Marinate the Turkey Legs:
- Place the turkey legs on a plate or tray.
- Use the basting brush to evenly coat the turkey legs with the prepared marinade. Ensure each leg is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Grease the Air Fryer Basket:
- Now lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Turkey Legs:
- Carefully place the marinated turkey legs in the preheated air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook the turkey legs at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. Flip the legs halfway through the cooking time using kitchen tongs to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Check for Doneness:
- Check the internal temperature of the turkey legs using a meat thermometer. The turkey legs are safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the turkey legs are cooked to perfection and have a crispy, golden-brown exterior, remove them from the air fryer.
- Serve your flavorful Air Fryer Turkey Legs hot with your favorite side dishes or sauces, and enjoy.
Expert Tips For Perfect Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels before applying the marinade. Removing excess moisture helps the marinade stick better and enhances the flavor.
- Cook the turkey legs in batches if your air fryer basket is small. Overcrowding can disturb proper air circulation and lead to uneven cooking.
- Always use a reliable meat thermometer to check internal temperature. The turkey legs are safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baste the turkey legs with the marinade or juices during cooking. This enhances the flavor and keeps the meat moist.
- Allow the cooked turkey legs to rest for a few minutes before serving. Resting helps in redistributing the juices and makes the meat tender and flavorful.
How To Serve Air Fried Turkey Legs
- Serve the turkey legs air fryer on a platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves. Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley for a classic, elegant presentation.
- Arrange the air fryer turkey legs on a large serving tray with roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, for a family feast.
- Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, and ranch dressing.
- Debone the air-fried turkey legs and shred the meat. Serve it in sandwiches or wraps with your favorite condiments, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce.
Variations To Air Fryer Turkey Legs Recipe
- Create a rub with a mixture of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, sage, and marjoram. Add a pinch of garlic powder and rub the turkey legs with this aromatic blend for a dreamy flavor.
- Mix chili powder, lime zest, and a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicy citrus rub. Rub the turkey legs with this mixture before air frying for a zesty, fiery kick.
- Marinate the turkey legs in a mixture of coconut milk, curry powder, turmeric, and a splash of lime juice. Air fry for a tropical and aromatic dish with a hint of spice.
- Make a glaze using peach preserves, a splash of bourbon, and a pinch of cinnamon. Brush the air-fried turkey legs with this glaze for a sweet and fruity indulgence.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Allow leftover air fryer turkey legs to cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if properly stored.
- Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, freeze the turkey legs in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. For optimal quality, consume within 2-3 months. Thaw frozen turkey legs in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Place the leftover turkey legs in the air fryer basket at 375°F (190°C). Reheat for 6-8 minutes until they are hot and crispy again.
My Other Must Try Air Fryer Recipes
- Air Fryer Whole Chicken Wings
- Frozen Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Patties
- Chicken Fries In Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Chicken
- Air Fryer Halibut
How Long Should I Heat Up Turkey Legs In The Air Fryer?
The heating time for turkey legs in the air fryer typically ranges between 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). However, the exact time may vary based on the size of the legs and the air fryer model being used. Make sure the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Why Do Turkey Legs Take Longer To Cook?
Turkey legs are dense and contain bones, so they take longer to cook than other cuts of meat. The bone structure and thickness of the meat require more time to ensure even cooking and reaching the desired internal temperature.
Why Are My Turkey Legs Tough After Cooking?
Tough turkey legs can result from undercooking or overcooking. Undercooked legs might have an unpleasant texture, while overcooked legs can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and follow recommended cooking times to avoid this issue.
Are Air Fryer Turkey Legs Healthy?
Air-frying turkey legs significantly reduces the amount of oil used in cooking to make them a healthier alternative. Air fryer cooking produces crispy results without excessive oil, which is good for our health.
How Do I Know If The Turkey Legs Are Fully Cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey legs. They are safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Air Fryer Turkey Legs
⏱️Cook Time
- Prep Time: 05 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
🥘Ingredients
- Turkey Legs - 2
- Olive Oil (or Unsalted Butter) - 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme - 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Smoked Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
- Kosher Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
- Black Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
📝Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the air fryer is hot and ready for cooking.
- Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Prepare a marinade by combining olive oil (or unsalted butter), garlic powder, dried thyme, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Place the turkey legs on a plate or tray.
- Use the basting brush to evenly coat the turkey legs with the prepared marinade. Ensure each leg is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Now lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the marinated turkey legs in the preheated air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook the turkey legs at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. Flip the legs halfway through the cooking time using kitchen tongs to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Check the internal temperature of the turkey legs using a meat thermometer. The turkey legs are safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once the turkey legs are cooked to perfection and have a crispy, golden-brown exterior, remove them from the air fryer.
- Serve your flavorful Air Fryer Turkey Legs hot with your favorite side dishes or sauces, and enjoy.
📝Recipe Notes
- Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels before applying the marinade. Removing excess moisture helps the marinade stick better and enhances the flavor.
- Cook the turkey legs in batches if your air fryer basket is small. Overcrowding can disturb proper air circulation and lead to uneven cooking.
- Always use a reliable meat thermometer to check internal temperature. The turkey legs are safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baste the turkey legs with the marinade or juices during cooking. This enhances the flavor and keeps the meat moist.
- Allow the cooked turkey legs to rest for a few minutes before serving. Resting helps in redistributing the juices and makes the meat tender and flavorful.
🔍Nutrition
Calories: 514kcallFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 240mgCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 62gSodium: 540mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.1gIron: 5mg
These values are approximate and can differ based on the specific recipe and ingredients.
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