Description
No giant bird, no stress, just perfectly portioned turkey legs with golden, crispy skin and fall-off-the-bone meat. A true weeknight hero—or a festive showstopper!
Ingredients
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4 turkey drumsticks (3–4 lbs total)
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2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
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1 tsp kosher salt
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½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh, finely chopped)
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1 cup chicken or turkey broth (low-sodium preferred)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat drumsticks completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for crispy skin.
2. Make the Flavor Paste
Mix oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs into a paste. Rub all over drumsticks (get under the skin if possible).
3. Pan Setup
Place drumsticks in a roasting pan or baking dish. Pour broth into the pan around (not over) the meat.
4. Tenderizing Phase
Cover loosely with foil. Roast 45 minutes.
5. Crisping Phase
Remove foil, baste with pan juices, and return to oven uncovered. Roast another 30–40 minutes, until skin is golden and internal temp reaches 175°F.
6. Rest & Serve
Tent with foil and rest 10 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices.
Notes
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Citrus Herb → Add zest of 1 lemon + 1 orange to rub, place slices in pan.
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Root Veggie Feast → Toss carrots, potatoes, onions in spice mix; roast alongside drumsticks.
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Balsamic Honey Glaze → Brush with 2 tbsp balsamic + 1 tbsp honey in last 15 minutes.
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Spicy Kick → Add ½ tsp cayenne or chipotle powder to rub.
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Mustard Herb → Swap oil for 2 tbsp whole-grain Dijon mustard in rub.
Nutrition
- Calories: 310 cal Per Serving
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 36g