Imagine yourself with a huge, mouthwatering, smoky, sweet, and tangy turkey leg in one hand and cotton candy in the other—have you ever been to a carnival? If you’re anything like me and are double fisting two turkey legs instead for Thanksgiving, try out my new recipe for BBQ Turkey Legs below; I’m here to help. Make sure to read my tips before cooking:
A great way to get results that are juicy, flavorful, and tender is to grill the turkey legs. But, like any cooking process, timing is crucial. So, how long does it take to cook turkey legs on the grill?.
The answer depends on several factors, including the grill type, temperature fluctuations, the turkey leg’s starting temperature, and whether it’s been brined. This guide will delve into these factors and provide additional tips to ensure your grilled turkey legs are a culinary masterpiece
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Grill Type: Different grills operate at varying efficiencies. For instance, a well-insulated smoker like a kamado-style smoker will retain heat better, leading to faster cooking times compared to a less insulated grill.
Temperature Fluctuations: Maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the grilling process is essential. Opening the grill lid frequently can cause temperature drops, extending the cooking time
Turkey Leg’s Starting Temperature: A thawed turkey leg will cook faster than a frozen one. Ensure your turkey leg is completely thawed before grilling to achieve accurate cooking times.
Brining: Brining helps keep the turkey leg moist and flavorful. A wet or dry brine can be used, depending on your preference. Brining will typically add 30-60 minutes to the cooking time.
General Cooking Time Guidelines
For a 12-pound turkey leg at 350°F:
- Brined: 1.5-2 hours
- Not Brined: 2-2.5 hours
For a 12-pound turkey leg at 275°F:
- Brined: 2-2.5 hours
- Not Brined: 2.5-3 hours
For a 12-pound turkey leg at 250°F:
- Brined: 2.5-3 hours
- Not Brined: 3-3.5 hours
Note: These are just general guidelines. The actual cooking time may vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Tips for Accurate Cooking Time
Use a Thermometer: The most reliable way to determine if your turkey leg is done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the leg, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bone. The turkey leg is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest the Turkey Leg: Allow the turkey leg to cool for ten to fifteen minutes before slicing. This makes the juices redistribute, making the leg more flavorful and succulent.
Consider Carryover Cooking: The turkey leg’s internal temperature will continue to rise slightly after removing it from the heat. Therefore, remove the turkey leg from the grill when it reaches 160°F to account for carryover cooking.
Adjust for Different Grill Temperatures: If you’re using a grill temperature other than those mentioned above, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Additional Tips for Grilling Delicious Turkey Legs
Brine the Turkey Leg: Brining helps keep the turkey leg moist and flavorful. You can use a wet or dry brine, depending on your preference.
Use a V-Rack: Placing the turkey leg on a V-rack allows for better airflow and more even cooking.
Keep the Lid Closed: Avoid opening the grill lid frequently to maintain consistent temperature and maximize smoke penetration.
Use a Remote Probe Thermometer: This allows you to monitor the turkey leg’s internal temperature and the grill’s temperature without opening the lid.
Choose the Right Wood: Different woods impart unique flavors to the turkey leg. For example, applewood and cherrywood are popular choices for their mild sweetness, while hickory and mesquite offer a more robust smoky flavor.
Experiment with Dry Rubs: Dry rubs can add additional flavor and complexity to your grilled turkey leg. Experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.
Grilling turkey legs is a rewarding culinary experience. By understanding the factors influencing cooking time and following these tips, you can achieve perfectly grilled turkey legs every time. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to achieving juicy, flavorful, and tender results. So, fire up your grill, grab your favorite wood, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of a perfectly grilled turkey leg!
DO I NEED TO BRINE THE TURKEY LEGS?
While the BBQ Turkey Legs take only 2. 5-3 hours to cook, the biggest part of the process is the brining. I suggest brining the meat for at least 4 hours, but 12 hours or longer is preferable. Overall, brining will flavor the meat throughout while helping it cook evenly. Don’t miss this step or you will be missing out on flavor!.
WHAT TEMPERATURE SHOULD I COOK AT?
Keeping your grill at a constant 250-275F is my recommendation. You can definitely smoke it at 225F, but I like a little more caramelization on the meat. I also highly recommend using the PitBarrel smoker for this cook. Not only does is enhance the smoky flavor of the BBQ Turkey Legs, but it is able to keep a steady and consistent temperature for cooking the turkey legs. Definitely a must have grill for the holidays.
Turkey Legs On The Grill For Thanksgiving
How long do you cook turkey legs on a grill?
Lightly oil the grill and preheat it to medium-high. Give each turkey leg a light coating of oil, salt and pepper, then place them all over the grill. Cook the legs for 4-5 minutes per side, just until some slight charring appears. Either transfer the legs to an upper cooling rack or keep cooking them over indirect heat between 45 to 60 minutes.
How long do you cook smoked turkey legs?
Place turkey legs on the grill and cook it on medium heat. Grill it for 30 minutes and your smoked turkey legs are ready. Now, enjoy yourself with your family.
How do you prepare turkey legs before grilling?
Below are the steps needed to prep your turkey legs before grilling. Wet brining your turkey legs involves submerging the drumsticks in saltwater and placing them in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours. Brining will soften the turkey meat, ensuring it takes less time to grill.
How do you cook a Turkey on a gas grill?
Taste of Home Test Kitchen In a small bowl, combine the first 9 ingredients. Brush drumsticks with butter mixture. Add wood chips to grill according to manufacturer’s directions. Place turkey on greased grill rack. Grill, covered, over indirect medium heat, 40-45 minutes or until a thermometer reads 175°, turning drumsticks occasionally.