Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and get ready for some mouthwatering Kansas City BBQ Turkey Legs! Juicy, smoky, and basted with a tangy-sweet barbecue sauce, these turkey legs are grilled to perfection using the reverse sear method. The intense heat of the center grill grate locks in the flavor, while the flat cooktop gently brings them to the perfect internal temperature. This easy and delicious recipe will be the star of your next cookout!

Ingredients

• 4 turkey legs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup Kansas City-style BBQ sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Turkey Legs

1. Brush each turkey leg with melted butter.
2. Mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture generously over the turkey legs.

Step 3: Sear the Turkey Legs

1. Place the turkey legs on the center grill grate and sear each side for about 2 minutes until a nice crust forms.
2. Move the turkey legs to the hot flat cooktop to continue cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Turkey Legs

1. Cook the turkey legs on the flat cooktop, rotating occasionally, for about 40-50 minutes.
2. Baste the turkey legs with Kansas City BBQ sauce every 10 minutes for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Check Temperature & Rest

1. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part.
2. Remove the turkey legs from the grill when they reach 150°F, as they will continue to cook while resting.
3. Let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, use hickory or applewood logs.
• Let the butter-coated seasoning sit on the turkey legs for 30 minutes before grilling to enhance the flavor.
• Use a basting brush to evenly coat the turkey legs with BBQ sauce.
• Keep turkey legs closer to the center for higher heat and move them outward if they cook too fast.

Variations

• Spicy Buffalo Turkey Legs: Replace the BBQ sauce with spicy buffalo sauce for a fiery twist.
• Honey Bourbon Glaze: Mix honey and bourbon into the BBQ sauce for a rich and sweet alternative.
• Garlic Herb Turkey Legs: Swap the BBQ rub with minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
• Asian BBQ Turkey Legs: Use hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil for an Asian flair.
• Maple BBQ Turkey Legs: Add pure maple syrup for a sweeter taste.

Conclusion

Grilling turkey legs on the Arteflame grill ensures they are juicy, smoky, and flavorful every time. By using the reverse sear method, you’ll achieve tender meat with a crispy exterior. Whether you go with classic Kansas City BBQ sauce or one of the delicious variations, this recipe will become a favorite at your grill sessions!

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Sweet potato wedges
• Coleslaw with apple cider vinegar dressing
• Grilled asparagus with garlic butter
• Chilled lemonade or an ice-cold craft beer