How Long To Deep Fry Turkey Legs for Perfectly Cooked Meat

Deep fried turkey legs are a delicious, juicy treat that can often be found at fairs, theme parks, and festivals. While frying an entire turkey can seem daunting, frying just the legs is an easier and less risky endeavor. When done properly, deep fried turkey legs come out with crispy, golden brown skin enveloping tender, moist meat. Figuring out exactly how long to fry turkey legs is key to achieving this ideal texture.

How Long Does it Take to Fry Turkey Legs?

The exact frying time can vary slightly based on the size of the legs the temperature of the oil, and whether the legs have been thawed. However most turkey legs take 12-15 minutes to fry. Legs fried at higher temperatures like 375°F will cook faster, while lower temperatures around 350°F will require a little more time. Smaller legs on the skinny side may only need 10-12 minutes, while extra large legs may require closer to 18 minutes.

It’s important not to over or under cook the legs Undercooked meat will be dangerously undercooked and raw in the center Overcooked legs will be dry and tough, Using an instant read thermometer to check for doneness is the best way to ensure the legs turn out perfectly,

What Temperature Should Turkey Legs Reach?

For food safety deep fried turkey legs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. At this temperature, any potentially harmful bacteria are killed and the meat is safe to eat. Aim to cook the legs until the thickest part of the meat registers 165°F when a thermometer is inserted.

The skin will turn a deep golden brown when the legs are done. If the skin starts to get too dark before the interior reaches 165°F, simply reducing the oil heat a bit can allow the inside to finish cooking without burning the exterior.

Tips for Frying Turkey Legs

• Use a thermometer – This ensures the oil is at the right temp and legs reach a safe internal temp.

• Allow legs to thaw completely – Frozen legs will take longer to fry. Thawed legs cook more evenly.

• Dry legs well – Pat turkey legs very dry before frying. This helps them brown instead of steam.

• Fry in batches – Don’t crowd the pot. Fry just 2-3 legs at a time so oil temp doesn’t drop too much.

• Keep oil at 350-375°F – Maintain a consistent oil temp for best results.

• Flip halfway – Flip legs over about halfway through frying on each side.

• Check temps early – Check the internal temp a couple minutes before expected done time.

• Rest before eating – Let fried legs drain and rest 5 minutes before digging in.

Step-By-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for foolproof deep fried turkey legs:

Ingredients:

• Turkey legs, thawed if frozen
• Peanut or vegetable oil for frying
• Cajun seasoning or dry rub

Directions:

1. Remove any giblets from inside the turkey legs and rinse under cool water. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

2. Coat legs evenly with Cajun or other seasoning. Rub seasoning all over legs.

3. Pour oil into a heavy pot or Dutch oven to a depth of 4-6 inches. Slowly heat oil to 375°F over medium heat.

4. Fry legs in batches of 2-3 at a time. Gently lower each leg into the hot oil using tongs. Fry for 6-8 minutes then flip and fry 6-8 minutes more until golden brown.

5. Check internal temp by inserting an instant read thermometer into the thickest part of a leg. It should reach 165°F.

6. Drain fried legs on a wire rack or paper towel lined pan. Lightly sprinkle with additional seasoning if desired.

7. Allow legs to rest 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy immediately while hot and crispy.

When fried at 350-375°F for around 12-15 minutes total, turkey legs come out juicy, tender and perfectly browned. Be sure to use a thermometer to guarantee the legs reach a safe internal temperature. Follow this simple deep frying method for finger lickin’ good fried turkey legs any time.