Barbecued Turkey Drumsticks
Juicy, tender turkey drumsticks coated in a flavorful barbecue sauce, perfect for outdoor gatherings or family dinners, offering a smoky, sweet, and savory taste experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange turkey drumsticks in a skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper; add water.
- Cover tightly and simmer, turning occasionally, for 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
- If all water evaporates, add small amounts at a time.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the turkey drumsticks in the seasoning overnight. You can substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Keep an eye on the water level during simmering to ensure the meat stays moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued turkey drumsticks with a side of coleslaw and cornbread for a classic pairing. They also go well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. Consider offering a side of baked beans for a hearty meal. For dessert, try pairing with a slice of Wonderful Pie for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover turkey drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overheat to avoid drying out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Turkey Drumsticks contains roughly 142 calories, with 10g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken drumsticks for turkey. The cooking time may be shorter, around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the chicken. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to suit your taste.
What can I do if I don't have dry mustard?
If you don't have dry mustard, you can use prepared mustard as a substitute. Use about 1 tablespoon of prepared mustard to replace 1 teaspoon of dry mustard. It will add a tangy flavor to the sauce.
How can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
To make barbecued turkey drumsticks in a slow cooker, season the drumsticks and place them in the slow cooker with the water and sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the turkey is tender and fully cooked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).