Introduction
Grilling turkey legs in foil is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this juicy and flavorful meat. Whether you’re grilling for a summer BBQ or a holiday feast, this technique will ensure that your turkey legs turn out tender and moist every time. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of grilling turkey legs in foil, from preparing the meat to serving it up on a plate.
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Legs
Start by rinsing the turkey legs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This will help remove any excess moisture, allowing the seasonings to stick better to the meat. You can also trim any excess fat or skin from the turkey legs if desired. This step is optional but can help reduce flare-ups on the grill.
Step 2: Season the Turkey Legs
Next, it’s time to season the turkey legs. You can use a simple seasoning blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with your favorite herbs and spices. Rub the seasonings onto the turkey legs, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides. Let the seasoned turkey legs sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Foil Packets
Tear off a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil for each turkey leg. Place a seasoned turkey leg in the center of each foil piece. Fold up the edges of the foil to create a packet, ensuring that it is tightly sealed to trap the steam and juices inside while grilling.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will give you a nice sear on the turkey legs while allowing them to cook through evenly. If using a gas grill, preheat for about 10-15 minutes. For charcoal grills, let the coals burn until they are covered with white ash before placing the foil packets on the grill.
Step 5: Grill the Turkey Legs
Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Let the turkey legs cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the turkey legs and the heat of your grill. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey legs are fully cooked.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the turkey legs are done, carefully remove the foil packets from the grill. Let the turkey legs rest for a few minutes before opening the packets. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. Serve the grilled turkey legs hot, garnished with some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Tips for Grilling Turkey Legs in Foil
1. Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing and ensure that the packets are tightly sealed.
2. Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to add variety to your grilled turkey legs.
3. If using a charcoal grill, you can add some wood chips or chunks to the coals for a smoky flavor.
4. Avoid opening the foil packets too often while grilling, as this will release the steam and prolong the cooking time.
5. Serve the grilled turkey legs with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Grilling turkey legs in foil is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful meat. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve perfectly grilled turkey legs that are juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or a Thanksgiving feast, this grilling technique will surely impress your guests. So fire up your grill and get ready to savor the mouthwatering taste of grilled turkey legs!