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fried turkey legs on wooden board
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Southern Fried Turkey Legs Recipe

Crispy, golden, and packed with southern flavor—these fried turkey legs are the ultimate comfort food.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 38 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 200kcal
Author Mirlene

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 Turkey legs
  • 6 tbsp. water
  • 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. onion powder
  • 1 tbsp. garlic powder
  • 2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 2 tsp. paprika
  • 1 tsp. allspice
  • A few drops of hot sauce
  • oil for frying

Instructions

  • In a bowl, whisk water, vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, paprika, allspice, and hot sauce. Pour over the turkey legs and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
    turkey legs I dish with season in a bowl
  • Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F.
    Remove turkey from marinade and pat dry.
    seasoning turkey legs for frying
  • Fry turkey legs, turning occasionally, for 15–18 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Let rest before serving.
    frying southern turkey legs

Notes

🍗 Tips for the Best Fried Turkey Legs

  • Marinate for flavor.Allow the turkey legs to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator, so the seasonings have time to develop.
  • Dry the turkey before frying.Remove the legs from the marinade and pat them thoroughly dry to reduce dangerous oil splattering.
  • Maintain the oil temperature.Heat the oil to 350°F before carefully adding the turkey. Monitor the temperature throughout cooking.
  • Avoid overcrowding.Fry in small batches so the oil temperature doesn't drop too quickly.
  • Check the internal temperature.Turkey legs must reach at least 165°F in the thickest part, away from the bone. Larger legs may require longer than the estimated cooking time.
  • Let the turkey rest.Allow the cooked turkey legs to rest for a few minutes before serving.
When it comes to frying, oil matters. I use a neutral oil with a high smoke point—usually canola or peanut oil. They don’t overpower the spices and give you that even, crisp finish you want. 

More Fried Turkey Recipes You'll Love

Looking for more ways to prepare turkey without roasting a whole bird? Try these other fried turkey recipes for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Deep Fried Turkey Wings
Deep Fried Turkey Breast
Deep Fried Turkey Tail
Deep Fried Turkey Back
Deep Fried Turkey Thighs
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Calories are estimated per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 2Servings | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 2430mg | Potassium: 155mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 25IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 13mg