Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Legs with Tangy Cranberry Glaze

Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Legs with Tangy Cranberry Glaze

45 mins
easy
4 servings

Enjoy perfectly crispy turkey legs with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Air FryerThanksgivingTurkey

Equipment Needed

  • Air Fryer
  • Baking sheet
  • Cooling Rack
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Medium bowl
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • 4.00 piecesTurkey Legs(Ensure turkey legs are patted dry.)
  • 2.00 tablespoonsBrown Sugar(Dark brown sugar adds depth of flavor.)
  • 4.00 teaspoonsPoultry Seasoning(Use a blend of your choice.)
  • 1.00 tablespoonKosher Salt(Adjust to taste.)
  • 2.00 teaspoonsGarlic Powder(Enhances the flavor profile.)
  • 2.00 teaspoonsSmoked Paprika(Adds a smoky touch.)
  • 2.00 tablespoonsVegetable Oil(For brushing the turkey legs.)
  • 1.00 14-ounce canWhole-Berry Cranberry Sauce(Use fresh cranberries for a more intense flavor.)
  • 2.00 tablespoonsDark Brown Sugar(Adds sweetness to the glaze.)
  • 2.00 tablespoonsLemon Juice(Adds a bright citrus flavor.)
  • 1.00 largeThyme Sprig(Fresh thyme is recommended.)
  • 1.00 mediumOrange Juice(Freshly squeezed is best.)
  • 1.00 mediumOrange Zest(Adds a citrusy aroma.)
  • 0.50 teaspoonKosher Salt(Adjust to taste.)

Instructions

1

Preheat air fryer to 380°F (190°C).

Estimated time: 5 minutes

2

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, poultry seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Estimated time: 2 minutes

3

Pat turkey legs dry with paper towels.

Estimated time: 2 minutes

4

Rub spice mixture all over turkey legs, ensuring even coating.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

5

Refrigerate seasoned turkey legs for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.

Estimated time: 120 minutes

6

Remove turkey legs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.

Estimated time: 30 minutes

7

Brush turkey legs with vegetable oil.

Estimated time: 2 minutes

8

Place turkey legs in air fryer basket.

Estimated time: 1 minutes

9

Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Estimated time: 25 minutes

10

Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Estimated time: 5 minutes

11

In a saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, thyme, orange juice, and salt.

Estimated time: 3 minutes

12

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).

Estimated time: 5 minutes

13

Stir in orange zest and let infuse for 5 minutes.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

14

Serve turkey legs with cranberry glaze.

Estimated time: 1 minutes