Air Fryer Turkey Legs are tender, juicy, and oh-so flavorful! Coated in tasty cajun seasoning, they’re great for holidays, get-togethers, and an easy weeknight meal.
Air Turkey Leg Recipe
Yummy! Nothing like a good Air Fryer Turkey Leg for dinner. I mean, who doesn’t love turkey legs? They are one of the easiest and tastiest dinners you will ever make, and they are also kid-friendly.
This turkey leg recipe is a real show-stopper. It used to be that you could only get some giant turkey drumsticks at festivals, fairs, and other large gatherings, but nowadays, you can pick them up at your local grocery store.
If you are in the mood for other tasty turkey recipes, give my Air Fryer Ground Turkey, Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf, Turkey Meatballs, and Air Fryer Turkey Tetrazzini a try.
There is nothing better than this cajun turkey leg recipe! Let’s get started so you can whip up your own.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Leg Recipe
- It’s fun to eat turkey drumsticks
- Can be served any time of year
- Great for parties
- Everyone loves them
- Perfect amount of cajun flavors
Ingredients Needed For This Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Turkey Legs
- Pickle Juice: For some added flavor and zest!
- Seasonings and Spices: Thyme, Brown Sugar, Garlic Powder, Sea Salt, Paprika, and Peppercorns!
How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Step 1: Prep the turkey drumsticks
Place turkey legs into a casserole dish and pour pickle juice inside. Let brine for 3 hours
Step 2: Air Fry Turkey Legs
Preheat the air fryer to 370* for 5 minutes. Remove the turkey from the brine. In a small ramekin, combine thyme, brown sugar, paprika, and black pepper. Rub all sides of the turkey legs with seasoning. *The skin of Turkey helps to create a delicious crunch on the outside and keeps the meat inside tender and juicy. For a low-fat option, remove the skin before seasoning. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the Turkey legs and if the skin is removed, so use a meat thermometer for the next step*
Step 3: Serve
Place turkey legs into the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes. Flip over and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Check the temperature of the Turkey legs, if they have reached 165* they are ready! If not, cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temp has reached 165*. Larger Turkey legs will take longer, and smaller ones will take less time. This is why it is important to check the temp while cooking so they are not overcooked. Depending on the size of your air fryer you may need to do multiple batches.
How to Serve Air Fryer Turkey Legs
Do not wait for Thanksgiving to make these, although if you are only cooking for one, this makes a great alternative to a full-size turkey.
They go great with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, french fries, salads, and roasted veggies.
How to Store Leftovers
I will often make more than I plan on serving that night; turkey legs make an amazing leftover lunch. Just place the leftovers in an airtight container where they will stay good for about 3 days. To reheat, pop them into the microwave or back in the air fryer.
How Do I Know When Turkey Is Done?
The only way to tell if the air fryer turkey leg is done is by testing the internal temperature. It should be 180 degrees F. Try this Habor Digital Meat Thermometer to ensure you get an accurate temperature reading.
Here are some other easy air fryer turkey recipes
Don’t Forget to Pin:
Air Frye Turkey Legs are tender, juicy, and oh so flavorful! Coated in tasty cajun seasoning, it's great for holidays or weeknights!
- 4 turkey legs
- 1 cup pickle juice
- 3 teaspoons thyme
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cracked peppercorn
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Place turkey legs into a casserole dish and pour pickle juice inside. Let brine for 3 hours
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Preheat the air fryer to 370* for 5 minutes
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Remove the turkey from the brine. In a small ramekin, combine thyme, brown sugar, paprika, and black pepper. Rub all sides of the turkey legs with seasoning. *The skin of Turkey helps to create a delicious crunch on the outside and keeps the meat inside tender and juicy. For a low-fat option, remove the skin before seasoning. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the Turkey legs and if the skin is removed, so use a meat thermometer for the next step*
-
Place turkey legs into the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes. Flip over and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Check the temperature of the Turkey legs, if they have reached 165* they are ready! If not, cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temp has reached 165*. Larger Turkey legs will take longer, and smaller will take less time. This is why it is important to check the temp while cooking so they are not over cooked. Depending on the size of your air fryer you may need to do multiple batches.
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Let rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with thyme and serve with your favorite veggies. Enjoy!
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