Ingredients
2–4 raw turkey leg
2 tbsp olive oil (or mustard as a binder)
2 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
Optional: BBQ sauce for glazing
Optional: wood chips (hickory or applewood)
Instructions
Prep the turkey leg – Pat dry, then coat in olive oil or mustard.
Apply seasoning – Combine spices in a bowl and rub generously on all sides.
Preheat smoker – Set your smoker to 275°F. Add soaked wood chips if using.
Smoke the leg – Place turkey legs directly on the rack. Close the lid.
Cook for 2.5–3 hours – Or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Glaze (optional) – Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 15–20 minutes.
Rest the meat – Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving for juicier results.
Notes
You can brine the turkey legs for 6–12 hours before cooking for extra tenderness.
For a crispier skin, increase smoker heat to 300°F in the final 10 minutes.
Serve with cornbread, baked beans, or smoked mac and cheese for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American / Southern BBQ
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 145mg