Kentucky Smoky BBQ Turkey Legs on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

These juicy and flavorful Kentucky-style smoky BBQ turkey legs are coated in a rich BBQ spice rub and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The high heat of the center grill grate ensures a perfect sear, locking in all the juices before finishing the turkey legs on the flat cooktop for a crispy, golden-brown exterior. This method delivers the ultimate smoky and succulent grilled turkey legs.

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp ground mustard
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (for basting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and let the firewood catch flame.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Legs

1. Pat the turkey legs dry with a paper towel.
2. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, ground mustard, and chili powder.
3. Brush the turkey legs with melted butter.
4. Coat the turkey legs evenly with the dry rub, ensuring a generous application.

Step 3: Sear the Turkey Legs

1. Place the turkey legs on the center grill grate of the Arteflame at over 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes to lock in the juices.
3. Once seared, move the turkey legs to the flat cooktop griddle.

Step 4: Grill the Turkey Legs to Perfection

1. Position the turkey legs on the flat cooktop closer to the center for higher heat.
2. Cook, turning occasionally, for about 40-45 minutes.
3. Baste with Worcestershire sauce and BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes.
4. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 170°F (remove at 155°F).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the turkey legs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes.
2. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Tips

• Use real hardwood for a deep, natural smoky flavor.
• Allow the meat to rest to retain juices and tenderness.
• Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the turkey legs.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning and extra cayenne pepper for heat.
2. Sweet Maple Glazed: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and baste with a honey-maple mix.
3. Garlic Herb Butter: Use rosemary, thyme, and extra garlic butter for added freshness.
4. Mustard BBQ: Swap Worcestershire sauce for Dijon mustard and use a mustard-based BBQ sauce.
5. Smoky Chipotle: Add chipotle powder and a splash of lime for a smoky, zesty kick.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Smoky baked beans
• Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• Grilled sweet potatoes
• Texas toast with garlic butter

Conclusion

Grilling these Kentucky smoky BBQ turkey legs on the Arteflame guarantees a deliciously crispy, juicy, and flavorful meal. The high-heat searing locks in the moistness, while the flat cooktop allows for slow, even grilling to perfection. Enjoy your next BBQ with these juicy turkey legs!