Air Fryer Turkey Legs

If you’re looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort, Air Fryer Turkey Legs are the perfect choice. Air frying delivers crispy, golden skin and tender, juicy meat in a fraction of the time compared to traditional roasting. Whether you’re preparing Thanksgiving family dinner or simply craving a taste of a giant turkey leg, this recipe is an amazing option.

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Brandi’s Key Ingredients

• Turkey Legs
• Olive Oil
• Creole Seasoning
• Smoked Paprika
• Salt and Pepper

Where to Buy Turkey Legs and How to Shop

Some standard grocers will keep brands like Butterball and Jenni-O on hand year-round. Major supermarkets like Walmart, Kroger, Publix, or Safeway carry turkey legs, especially around holidays like Thanksgiving. Check the poultry section, and they might have fresh or frozen options.

Your local butcher shop often has higher-quality cuts, including fresh turkey legs. You may also be able to request organic or free-range options.

Look for turkey legs with the skin on for a crispier result. The skin locks in moisture and adds texture. Turkey legs can vary in size. If you’re serving multiple people, ensure the legs are large enough to meet your needs. Typically, one large turkey leg serves one person generously.

The meat should have a pinkish hue, and the skin should look moist, not dry or discolored. Avoid any legs that look gray or have a slimy texture, as these can indicate spoilage. Ensure that the packaging is intact and free from tears or leaks. Check the sell-by date or expiration date to ensure you’re getting the freshest product possible.

How to Defrost

You can defrost them in the fridge overnight. This is the safest and most convenient method, but it requires some advance planning. Allow approximately 24 hours of defrosting time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.

You can also defrost them in cold water. Place the turkey legs in a leak-proof bag. Fill a large bowl or container with cold water. Submerge the turkey legs in the water. Make sure the legs are in an airtight bag to prevent contamination. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold. This helps ensure that the turkey legs defrost evenly and maintain a safe temperature.

How to Make Air Fryer Turkey Legs

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Pat the drumsticks dry and rub both sides with olive oil and spices.
2. Place the legs in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry.

Air Fryer Temperature

I use 370 degrees.

Cook Time/How Long to Cook

Cook the drumsticks for about 35 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees. Use a meat thermometer.

How to Tell When Turkey is Done

• Internal Temperature: You will need to use a meat thermometer. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of one the turkey legs without touching the bone. According to the USDA, Poultry must be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees.
• Golden, Crispy Skin: The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
• Juices Run Clear: When you cut into the turkey leg, the juices should run clear. If they are still pink or reddish, the turkey leg needs more time in the air fryer.
• Tender Meat: The meat should be tender and pull away easily from the bone. If it is still tough or rubbery, it hasn’t cooked long enough.

How Do You Keep them From Drying Out

Overcooking is a common cause of dry turkey legs. Use a meat thermometer to check when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Remove the legs as soon as they hit that temperature to keep them juicy. After removing the turkey legs from the air fryer, let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it more moist and flavorful.

Texture

The texture is a lot similar to fried chicken wings. These have crispy skin. If you are looking for wings that fall off the bone, try my Slow Cooker Turkey Legs, Baked Turkey Legs, or Smothered Turkey Wings recipes.

Can You Use Chicken Wings?

Check out my Air Fryer Chicken Wings recipe.

More Ideas on How to Season Them

• Homemade BBQ Seasoning and Rub
• Homemade Blackened Seasoning
• Homemade Ranch Seasoning
• Cajun Seasoning
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning

Can You Make Them Ahead/How to Store

Cooked turkey legs can be stored in the fridge tightly covered for 3-4 days.

How to Reheat

Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees until crispy and warm.

Freezer Tips

You can freeze leftover drumsticks tightly covered and sealed. For best taste, they will last up to 3 months. Defrost the legs overnight in the fridge and reheat.

What to Pair with the Dish

Air Fryer French Fries
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Roasted Ranch Potatoes
Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar

More Turkey Recipes

Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Baked Turkey Wings
Smoked Turkey Legs
Grilled Turkey Legs
Traeger Smoked Turkey
Air Fryer Turkey Wings
Cajun Spiced Roasted Turkey
Leftover Turkey Nachos
Turkey Bone Broth Recipe

Check out a full list of Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipes here. Pair these with our Turkey Graving From Drippings or Yellow Gravy Without Drippings recipes.

Watch step by step instructions on how to make this recipe on Youtube.