Glazed Turkey Legs

Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

Juicy glazed turkey legs with a sweet honey and lemon glaze, perfect for casual family dinners or outdoor gatherings, offering a delightful combination of savory and citrus flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 turkey legs (2 1/2 to 3 lb.)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Place turkey legs in a 10-inch round microwave-proof dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a paper towel.
  3. Cook on the microwave's cook cycle for 15 minutes, turning once during cooking. Turn the turkey legs over.
  4. Cook on the microwave's cook cycle for another 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For even more flavor, marinate the turkey legs in the honey, lemon peel, and lemon juice mixture for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have cornstarch, you can substitute with arrowroot or all-purpose flour to thicken the glaze. Ensure you turn the turkey legs halfway through cooking for even heating and doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these glazed turkey legs with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad or coleslaw. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside Cocktail Winnies for a delightful party spread. Don't forget to drizzle any remaining glaze over the sides for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover glazed turkey legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave with a splash of water and cover to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Glazed Turkey Legs contains roughly 105 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.

105 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 4.6g 6% DV
Carbs 15.3g 6% DV
Fiber 1.9g 7% DV
Sugar 1.3g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 57.4mg 2% DV
Potassium 189.8mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 12.6mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 13mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.9mg 2% DV
Calcium 18.6mg 1% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 cook the turkey legs in the oven instead of the microwave?

Yes, you can cook the turkey legs in the oven. Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally with the glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What can I use instead of honey for the glaze?

If you want to substitute honey, maple syrup or agave nectar work well. They will provide a similar sweetness and help create a nice glaze. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

How can I tell when the turkey legs are done cooking?

The turkey legs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this, or ensure the juices run clear when pierced near the bone.

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).

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