Main Courses > Poultry Dishes > Duck & Turkey > Smoked Turkey Legs

Cherry Chipotle Glazed Smoked Turkey Legs

Elevate your smoked turkey legs with a sweet and spicy cherry chipotle glaze. This recipe infuses the turkey with smoky flavor, enhanced by a vibrant, homemade glaze that perfectly balances sweetness, heat, and tang.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
4-6 hours
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 4 Turkey Legs
  • 1 cup Cherry Preserves
  • 2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Adobo Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper

Prepare the Turkey Legs

Rinse the turkey legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This removes any excess salt and prepares them for the smoking process.

Dry Rub

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture generously over the turkey legs, ensuring they are evenly coated. This creates a flavorful crust during smoking.

Prepare the Smoker

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use your preferred wood chips; hickory or applewood work well with turkey. Maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process.

Smoke the Turkey Legs

Place the turkey legs directly on the smoker rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Smoke for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the leg, avoiding the bone.

Prepare the Cherry Chipotle Glaze

While the turkey legs are smoking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherry preserves, minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, adobo sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly, about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and create a rich, glossy sauce.

Glaze the Turkey Legs

During the last 30-45 minutes of smoking, brush the cherry chipotle glaze over the turkey legs every 10-15 minutes. This builds up layers of flavor and creates a beautiful, sticky glaze. Ensure the legs are fully coated for maximum flavor.

Rest and Serve

Once the turkey legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove them from the smoker and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and varies based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Calories: 250-300
Protein: 30-35g
Fat: 10-15g
Carbohydrates: 10-15g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium smoked turkey legs or rinse the legs thoroughly before smoking. Adjust the amount of brown sugar to control the sweetness of the glaze.

← Baked Chicken Alfredo Casserole Classic Butter Chicken →

FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of wood for smoking?

    Yes, other types of wood like pecan, maple, or even a blend of woods can be used for smoking. Experiment to find your favorite flavor profile.
  • How can I prevent the turkey legs from drying out?

    Maintain a consistent temperature in your smoker and consider using a water pan to add moisture. Also, avoid overcooking the turkey legs; use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.
  • Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

    Yes, the cherry chipotle glaze can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.