How Long to Cook Smoked Turkey Legs in a Crockpot for Tender, Juicy Results

Smoked turkey legs are a classic barbecue staple that packs a double punch of smoky and savory flavors. When prepared in a crockpot, these tender drumsticks become fall-off-the-bone tender while infusing with a delicious smoky aroma. But exactly how long do you need to cook smoked turkey legs in a crockpot to achieve the perfect texture and taste? Read on for tips, timing, and techniques to help you make phenomenal smoked turkey legs at home with your crockpot.

Benefits of Cooking Smoked Turkey Legs in a Crockpot

There are several advantages to using a crockpot for smoking turkey legs

• Convenience – A crockpot allows you to “set it and forget it,” freeing up your time for other tasks while the turkey legs slowly cook to perfection No need to constantly monitor a smoker or oven

• Moist and tender meat – The moist, even heat of the crockpot keeps the turkey legs incredibly juicy and tender as they cook low and slow.

• Infuses smoky flavor – Cooking the legs directly with smoky wood chips infuses deep smoky notes right into the meat.

• Simple cleanup – With everything contained in the crockpot liner, cleanup is a breeze once your smoked turkey legs are ready.

How Long to Cook Smoked Turkey Legs in a Crockpot

The exact cooking time for smoked turkey legs in a crockpot can vary due to the size of the legs, your crockpot wattage, and other factors. However, here are some general time ranges to follow:

• Small turkey legs (1-2 lbs each): 4 to 6 hours on LOW

• Medium turkey legs (2-3 lbs each): 6 to 8 hours on LOW

• Large turkey legs (3-4 lbs each): 8 to 10 hours on LOW

For the most accurate results, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the turkey legs. They are done when the thermometer reads:

• 165°F for chicken
• 175°F for turkey

If using a digital programmable crockpot, you can set the temperature precisely to between 200°F and 250°F to further control the cooking time.

Step-by-Step Guide for Smoked Turkey Legs in a Crockpot

Follow these simple steps for foolproof smoked turkey legs using your crockpot:

Ingredients:

• 3-4 turkey legs, thawed if frozen
• 1⁄4 cup barbecue rub or seasoning
• 1 cup wood chips, soaked
• 1 onion, sliced (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth or beer (optional)

Directions:

1. Rinse turkey legs under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

2. Apply a generous coating of barbecue rub all over each leg. Refrigerate legs to marinate if time allows.

3. Pour soaked wood chips into the crockpot and place legs on top in a single layer.

4. Add sliced onion and chicken broth or beer for extra moisture if desired.

5. Cook on LOW setting for 6-10 hours depending on leg size, until 165°F.

6. Use tongs to transfer legs to a platter. Tent with foil and let rest 10 minutes before serving.

7. Carve into the juiciest smoked turkey legs you’ve ever tasted!

Tips for Maximizing Flavor

• Play around with different wood chips like hickory, apple, mesquite or cherry for flavor variations.

• Rub the legs with spices the night before for a more robust seasoning.

• Add garlic, brown sugar, citrus, or herbs to the rub for unique flavor profiles.

• Slice onions under the legs to add a savory depth.

• Use broth, beer or apple juice for extra moisture and taste.

• Finish legs under the broiler or on the grill for crispy skin.

• Brush with barbecue sauce during last 30 minutes if desired.

Common Questions About Crockpot Smoked Turkey Legs

Can you put frozen turkey legs directly into the crockpot?

It is not recommended. Always thaw turkey legs completely before cooking to ensure food safety and proper cooking.

Do the legs need to be submerged in liquid?

No, as long as a small amount of liquid is present it will create steam to keep the meat moist.

How do I get crispy skin on my smoked turkey legs?

Briefly broiling or grilling them after slow cooking will help crisp up the skin.

What temperature should the crockpot be set to?

Between LOW (200°F) and HIGH (300°F) works well. Check legs sooner at higher temps.

Can I use broth instead of water for the wood chips?

Yes, broth adds great flavor. Just limit it to 1 cup so it doesn’t overpower the smoky taste.

Smoked turkey legs made in the crockpot are a hands-off way to enjoy tender, seasoned, flavorful drumsticks with minimal effort. Use a meat thermometer and the guidelines provided to perfectly time how long to cook smoked turkey legs for your ideal texture. Then dig into these foolproof barbecue-flavored beauties!