The Best Ways to Reheat Turkey Legs to Maintain Juiciness and Flavor

Leftover turkey legs can be a delicious treat after a big holiday meal. But properly reheating them is key to retaining moisture and flavor. With the right technique you can enjoy leftover turkey legs that taste as good as the day they were cooked. This article will cover everything you need to know about successfully reheating turkey legs.

Storing Leftover Turkey Legs

The first step is proper storage after your meal Place any unused turkey legs in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer term storage, you can freeze turkey legs for 2-3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.

When ready to reheat, thaw turkey legs overnight in the fridge if frozen. Never thaw at room temperature, as this allows bacteria to grow.

Why Reheating Method Matters

The reheating method you choose can make all the difference for retaining moisture and flavor. Turkey legs have a lot of connective tissue that needs to be heated gently and slowly. High, direct heat can toughen and dry out the meat.

On the other hand, low indirect heat with some steam is ideal for reheating turkey legs. This gentle approach allows time for the meat to warm through while keeping it tender and juicy.

Oven Reheating

The oven provides an easy, hands-off way to reheat turkey legs without drying them out. Simply place the foil-wrapped turkey legs on a baking sheet and use low, indirect heat to warm them through:

• 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 baking sheet, not touching.

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

• Allow to rest 5 minutes before unwrapping foil and serving.

Microwave Reheating

The microwave provides a quick method for reheating turkey legs. The key is using lower power and short cooking times to prevent toughening:

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

• Cover loosely with a paper towel or vented plastic wrap.

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

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

• Let sit 2-3 minutes before serving.

Stovetop Skillet Reheating

A skillet on the stovetop allows you to reheat and lightly crisp the skin at the same time. Use medium-low heat and keep the turkey legs moving:

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

• Add turkey legs and cook 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.

• If needed, add 1-2 tbsp water or broth and cover skillet to steam and retain moisture.

• Once heated through, increase heat to high to crisp skin, turning frequently.

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

Slow Cooker Reheating

Using a slow cooker is an incredibly easy, hands-off way to reheat turkey legs. Simply add legs and set it:

• Place thawed turkey legs in slow cooker.

• Add 1/2 cup broth or water.

• Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours until heated through.

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

Add Flavor While Reheating

You can boost flavor while reheating turkey legs with a few easy additions:

• Coat legs in broth, barbecue sauce, or pan gravy before reheating.

• Season with poultry seasoning, garlic powder, rosemary, and other herbs.

• Stuff cavity with onion, celery, carrots, and fresh herbs.

• Brush melted butter or olive oil over legs before serving.

Finishing Touches

Crisping up the skin at the end will take your reheated turkey legs to the next level.

• Broil legs 2-3 minutes until skin is browned and crispy.

• Coat with brown sugar, cayenne, or smoked paprika for flavor and crunch.

• Fry or sauté skin side down in oil briefly to crisp and caramelize.

Safety Tips

To safely reheat turkey legs, remember:

• Use a food thermometer to ensure legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Only reheat once – do not keep reheating leftovers.

• Bring legs from fridge directly to oven or microwave – don’t leave at room temp.

• Discard any turkey legs left out more than 2 hours or past 4 days in fridge.

With the proper reheating technique, your leftover turkey legs can taste incredibly moist, tender and delicious. Choose a gentle reheating method like the oven or slow cooker. Add steam and flavorings. Crisp up the skin at the end for finger-licking results!