How to Cook Juicy, Tender Turkey Drumsticks in a Slow Cooker

Turkey drumsticks are a delicious and economical alternative to cooking a whole turkey The legs contain plenty of flavorful dark meat that becomes incredibly tender and juicy when cooked low and slow in a slow cooker

Cooking turkey drumsticks in a slow cooker allows the meat to become fall-off-the-bone tender while infusing it with herbs, spices and other flavors. The moist, gentle heat of the slow cooker breaks down connective tissues in the meat, resulting in juicy, delicious turkey drumsticks every time.

Benefits of Cooking Turkey Legs in a Slow Cooker

There are several benefits to using a slow cooker for turkey drumsticks:

• Tender and juicy meat – The prolonged, moist heat breaks down tough connective tissues, resulting in very tender and juicy meat.

• Infuses flavor – Spices, herbs and other flavorings have hours to permeate the meat.

• Convenience – Just add the drumsticks and let the slow cooker do the work. Perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meals.

• More affordable – Turkey legs cost significantly less than a whole turkey. Great for smaller households.

• Versatile – Turkey drumsticks work well in a variety of recipes from soups to salads. Leftovers can be used in many ways.

Tips for Cooking Turkey Legs in the Slow Cooker

Follow these tips for perfect slow cooker turkey drumsticks every time

• Use boneless legs – Boneless turkey legs cook faster and more evenly. If using bone-in, extend cook time.

• Brown them first – Browning the legs first adds flavor and color. Use the stovetop or broiler.

• Coat with oil – Rubbing oil all over the legs helps keep them moist during cooking.

• Lift and separate – Occasionally lift and separate the legs to prevent sticking.

• Add liquid – For bone-in legs, add 1⁄2 cup liquid like broth, wine or water.

• Use flavors – Rub or inject legs with herbs, spices, citrus, etc. for added flavor.

• Allow to rest – Let legs sit 10-15 minutes before slicing for juicy results.

• Crisp the skin – If desired, broil legs briefly after cooking to crisp the skin.

Easy Slow Cooker Turkey Drumstick Recipes

These flavorful recipes result in foolproof turkey drumsticks every time:

~ Rotisserie-Style Turkey Legs ~

Coat drumsticks with a blend of oil and classic rotisserie seasonings like garlic, paprika, salt and pepper. Cook on Low 6-8 hours.

~ BBQ Turkey Drumsticks ~

Smother drumsticks in your favorite BBQ sauce and cook on Low for 7-8 hours until tender and juicy.

~ Herb-Crusted Turkey Legs ~

For an herbed flavor crust, coat legs with a blend of oil, rosemary, thyme, sage and garlic before cooking on Low for 6-8 hours.

~ Orange-Glazed Turkey Legs ~

For a sweet and tangy flavor, coat drumsticks with orange marmalade, soy sauce, garlic and orange zest before cooking on Low for 7-9 hours.

~ Honey & Chili Turkey Legs ~

For spicy-sweet flavor, coat legs in a mixture of oil, honey, chili powder, cumin and cayenne before cooking on Low 8-9 hours.

~ Cranberry Turkey Drumsticks ~

For a Thanksgiving twist, coat legs in whole berry cranberry sauce before cooking on Low for about 8 hours.

Step-by-Step Guide for Cooking Turkey Legs in a Slow Cooker

Follow these simple steps for foolproof slow cooker turkey drumsticks:

1. Prep the Turkey Legs

• Pat drumsticks dry and trim off any excess skin or fat.

• Make 3-4 slits into thickest part of meat to allow flavors to penetrate.

• Coat all over with oil or dry rub mixture, getting into slits. Cover and refrigerate 30-60 minutes.

2. Brown the Legs (Optional)

• Preheat broiler or large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Place legs on a broiler pan or in the hot skillet and cook 3-5 minutes per side until browned.

3. Add to the Slow Cooker

• Pour 1⁄2 cup broth, wine or water into bottom of slow cooker.

• Add browned turkey legs and any accumulated juices.

4. Cook on Low

• Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours for boneless legs, or 8-10 hours for bone-in.

• Lift and rotate legs halfway through cooking to prevent sticking.

5. Finish and Serve

• Use tongs to transfer legs to a platter or cutting board.

• Tent with foil and let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing.

• Serve hot with desired sauces or sides. Enjoy!

Tips for Leftover Turkey Drumsticks

Leftover slow cooker turkey legs can be used in all sorts of delicious ways:

• Slice and use for sandwiches, wraps or flatbread pizzas.

• Dice or shred meat for casseroles, soups, salads, omelets and more.

• Pair with veggies and cheese for a quick turkey leg skillet dinner.

• Use bone and scraps to make flavorful turkey broth or stock.

• Slice and reheat in sauces like gravy, marinara, curry or mole sauce.

Get Delicious, Tender Turkey Every Time

Cooking turkey drumsticks in the slow cooker results in incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone meat infused with delicious flavor. Follow the tips, recipes and guidelines above for juicy, flavorful turkey drumsticks your whole family will love.