Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Turkey Legs are a delicious and easy meal option. Cooking turkey legs in an air fryer gives them a juicy interior and a crispy exterior without all the mess of traditional frying. This method is quicker and requires less oil, making it a healthier choice for you and your family. Plus, the flavors from the spice rub make these legs irresistible!
How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Ingredients:
- 64 ounces (329g) turkey legs (4 turkey legs that are approx. 16 ounces each, including bone)
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- ½ teaspoon parsley
Directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic salt, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, and parsley to create a dry rub.
- Using clean hands, rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs to make sure they are well coated.
- Lightly spritz the turkey legs with olive oil spray or any cooking oil you prefer.
- Place the seasoned turkey legs in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry the turkey legs for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
- Cook until the internal temperature of the turkey drumsticks reaches 165 degrees F (94 degrees C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
How to Serve Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Serve your air fryer turkey legs hot, straight from the air fryer. They go well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, try serving them with different dipping sauces like BBQ sauce or honey mustard.
How to Store Air Fryer Turkey Legs
If you have leftover turkey legs, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Ensure your air fryer is preheated to get that crispy skin.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; air needs to circulate around the legs for even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more spices if you like a stronger flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.
Variation
Feel free to try different seasoning blends based on your preferences. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the spice mix. You can also use herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I cook frozen turkey legs in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen turkey legs, but you will need to increase the cooking time to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. Always check the internal temperature.
2. How do I know when the turkey legs are done?
The best way to know if turkey legs are done is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (94 degrees C).
3. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! This air fryer method works well for chicken legs, wings, or even small whole chickens. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.
Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic salt, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, and parsley to create a dry rub.
- Using clean hands, rub the spice mixture all over the turkey legs to make sure they are well coated.
- Lightly spritz the turkey legs with olive oil spray or any cooking oil you prefer.
- Place the seasoned turkey legs in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry the turkey legs for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (94 degrees C) and the skin is golden and crispy.