How to Reheat Turkey Legs to Perfection

Leftover turkey legs from a big holiday meal are delicious, but properly reheating them is key to maintaining moisture and flavor. Whether smoked, roasted, or fried, turkey legs can be reheated using a variety of methods. Follow these tips and techniques for reheating turkey legs in the oven, microwave, slow cooker or on the grill.

Why Proper Reheating Matters

The reheating method you choose makes all the difference in preventing dried out, tough turkey legs Turkey legs contain a lot of collagen and connective tissue that needs gentle, moist heat to reheat. High, direct heat can cause the meat to seize up and dry out.

A slow, indirect heating method with some steam is ideal for reheating turkey legs and allowing time for the meat to fully warm through while keeping it juicy and tender.

Oven Reheating

The oven provides an easy, hands-off way to reheat turkey legs without drying them out:

• Preheat oven to 325°F Line a baking sheet with foil

• Wrap turkey legs loosely in foil, leaving room for steam circulation.

• Arrange legs on sheet pan, not touching.

• Heat legs for 30-45 minutes until warmed through (165°F).

• Rest 5 minutes before unwrapping foil and serving.

Microwave Reheating

The microwave allows fast reheating of turkey legs. Use lower power and short cooking times to prevent toughening:

• Place legs on a microwave-safe plate, spaced apart.

• Loosely cover with a paper towel or vented plastic wrap.

• Microwave on 50% power in 1-2 minute intervals until heated through.

• Check temperature, microwaving more if needed until 165°F.

• Let sit 2-3 minutes before serving.

Slow Cooker Reheating

Using a slow cooker is a foolproof way to reheat turkey legs:

• Place thawed turkey legs in slow cooker.

• Add 1/2 cup broth or water.

• Cook on HIGH 2-3 hours until heated through.

• Switch to WARM to hold legs until ready to serve.

• Baste legs with cooking liquid for added moisture.

Grill Reheating

The grill allows you to reheat and add flavor to turkey legs:

• Prepare grill for medium indirect heat.

• Place legs on the cool side of the grill, avoiding direct heat.

• Grill with the lid closed for 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally.

• Move over direct heat to finish crisping the skin if desired.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Skillet Reheating

A skillet on the stovetop allows you to crisp the skin while reheating:

• Heat 1 tsp oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.

• Cook legs 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.

• Increase heat to high and fry briefly to finish crisping the skin.

• Serve turkey legs immediately once skin is browned and crispy.

Handy Turkey Leg Reheating Tips

• Brush legs with broth, barbecue sauce or melted butter before reheating for extra moisture and flavor.

• Wrap in foil to prevent drying out. For microwave, leave seam side up.

• Use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F temperature. Juices should run clear when pierced.

• Bring legs directly from fridge to oven/microwave – don’t let sit at room temperature.

• Cook at high enough heat to ensure meat reaches safe 165°F internal temperature.

• Allow legs to rest 5 minutes after reheating for juices to redistribute.

With the proper gentle reheating technique, leftover turkey legs can taste amazingly moist, tender and full of flavor. Choose a method like the oven or slow cooker for foolproof results. Then finish briefly under the broiler or on the grill to add that irresistible crispy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to reheat turkey legs?

The time depends on the reheating method. Oven takes 30-45 minutes, microwave 2-3 minutes per leg, and slow cooker 2-3 hours on HIGH. Use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F.

Can you reheat a fully cooked smoked turkey leg?

Yes, smoked turkey legs can be reheated using the oven, microwave, or grill until hot throughout. Follow the same methods, cooking until 165°F.

What’s the best way to reheat turkey legs without drying them out?

The oven and slow cooker are best for gently reheating turkey legs without drying them out. Keep them loosely covered in foil and use lower heat.

Is it safe to reheat turkey legs more than once?

Only reheat fully cooked turkey legs once. Leftovers that have been reheated previously should be discarded. Reheating multiple times increases risk of bacteria growth.

Can you reheat turkey legs in an air fryer or instant pot?

Yes, both the air fryer and instant pot can be used to reheat turkey legs safely. Follow manufacturer instructions for timing and temperature.

Reheating leftover turkey legs may seem daunting, but have no fear! With the right gentle reheating technique, you can enjoy juicy, delicious turkey legs again and again.