Description
These smoked turkey legs deliver fall-off-the-bone tenderness and deep, savory flavor with a perfect bark on the outside. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or channeling your inner renaissance faire vibes, these are pure smoky satisfaction.
Ingredients
4 turkey legs (drumsticks), skin-on
¼ cup olive oil or melted butter
2 tbsp kosher salt
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne (optional, for a kick)
Wood Chips: Hickory or applewood for a sweet, smoky flavor
Instructions
Prep the turkey legs:
Pat dry, then rub with olive oil or butter.
Mix the dry rub: Combine salt, sugar, paprika, garlic, onion, pepper, and cayenne. Rub all over the turkey legs generously.
Let them rest: Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or overnight for more flavor).
Set up your smoker: Preheat to 250°F (120°C). Add soaked wood chips to the smoker box or directly to coals.
Smoke the turkey legs: Place on the smoker rack and cook for 3–4 hours, or until internal temp hits 165–175°F and the skin is dark and crispy.
Rest before serving: Let rest 10–15 minutes before digging in.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 / Serving
- Fat: 20g / Serving
- Protein: 50g / Serving