Nothing says comfort quite like the rich aroma of slow-roasted turkey drumsticks filling your kitchen. These tender, juicy drumsticks are a perfect meal for cozy family dinners or even as a fun alternative to the traditional holiday turkey. With their deep flavors and fall-off-the-bone tenderness, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making these all year round. Whether you’re prepping for a festive gathering or simply craving some soul-soothing comfort food, this turkey drumstick recipe is sure to impress.
Turkey Drumstick Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes1
hour45
minutes320
kcalSlow-roasted turkey drumsticks seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, cooked until juicy and tender. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or festive holiday meal.
Ingredients
4 large turkey drumsticks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the olive oil over the turkey drumsticks, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Place the drumsticks in a roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the pan and cover tightly with foil.
- Roast for 1 hour, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
- Remove the foil, brush with melted butter, and drizzle honey on top (if using). Roast for an additional 45 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sides!
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the drumsticks in the spice rub for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- To keep the meat extra juicy, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep — simply reheat leftovers for an easy weeknight dinner.
Tips for perfect Turkey Drumstick
- Baste frequently: Basting the drumsticks with pan juices keeps them moist and flavorful.
- Crispier skin: For an even crispier finish, broil the drumsticks for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Gluten-free option: Ensure that your chicken broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free if needed.
Recipe Variants
- BBQ Turkey Drumsticks: Add a smoky barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of roasting for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Spicy Cajun Turkey Drumsticks: Swap out the herbs for a Cajun seasoning blend for a fiery kick.
- Asian-Inspired Drumsticks: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an umami-packed variation.
FAQ
Yes, simply follow the seasoning steps, then cook in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Store cooked drumsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the skin crispy.
Absolutely! Turkey thighs work well with this recipe; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
If you’re looking for another comforting dish, check out our Dense Bean Salad Recipe! Perfect for serving alongside these juicy drumsticks to soak up all that delicious gravy.
These succulent turkey drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform humble drumsticks into a rich, flavorful dish that’s bound to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit at your table!
Leave a Reply