12 Delicious Orangey Turkey Legs Recipes

Let’s spice up your dinner routine with a burst of citrusy goodness! Our roundup of 12 Delicious Orangey Turkey Legs Recipes is here to transform your meals into vibrant, flavor-packed feasts. Perfect for those cozy family dinners or when you’re craving something uniquely comforting, these recipes promise to delight. Dive in and discover your next favorite dish that’s sure to impress!

Orange Glazed Turkey Legs

Orange glazed turkey legs are a delightful twist on traditional poultry dishes, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the rich, savory meat. On a quiet afternoon like this, the process of preparing them feels almost meditative, a gentle dance between simplicity and depth of flavor.

Ingredients

• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the orange glaze:
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp grated orange zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for the turkey legs.
2. Pat the turkey legs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up beautifully in the oven.
3. Rub the turkey legs evenly with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper for a simple yet flavorful base.
4. Place the turkey legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re not touching to allow for even cooking.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes before starting the glaze, giving the skin a chance to begin crisping.
6. While the turkey legs bake, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, orange zest, and minced garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat.
7. Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it thicken for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. After the initial 30 minutes of baking, brush the turkey legs generously with the orange glaze.
9. Return the turkey legs to the oven and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
10. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The orange glaze creates a glossy, sticky coating that locks in the turkey’s juices, while the meat underneath remains tender and flavorful. Serve these legs atop a bed of wild rice or with a side of roasted vegetables to soak up any extra glaze.

Citrus Herb Roasted Turkey Legs

Under the soft glow of the kitchen light, the aroma of citrus and herbs begins to weave its magic, promising a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. This recipe for roasted turkey legs is a humble yet elegant way to bring warmth to your table, with each bite offering a tender, juicy escape.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place them on a baking sheet. Season lightly with additional salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, then increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C) and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Once rested, the turkey legs reveal a perfect balance of tangy citrus and aromatic herbs, with meat that falls off the bone. Serve them atop a bed of wild rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Spicy Orange Turkey Legs

Evenings like these call for something that warms the soul, a dish that balances the zest of life with the comfort of home. Spicy orange turkey legs offer just that, a melody of flavors that dance between sweet, spicy, and savory, perfect for a reflective dinner under the dimming sky.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to season

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic to create the marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and season lightly with salt.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey legs for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Succulent and bursting with flavor, these turkey legs boast a crispy skin giving way to tender, juicy meat. The spicy orange glaze caramelizes beautifully, offering a sticky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.

Honey Orange Turkey Legs

Mornings like these, when the light filters through the kitchen window just so, call for something a little special, a dish that marries the comfort of home with the zest of new flavors. Honey Orange Turkey Legs, with their golden glaze and tender meat, are just the thing to slow down and savor.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated orange zest
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, honey, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, orange zest, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each leg is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with the remaining salt and pepper.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, then baste the legs with the marinade. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and slightly crispy.
5. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

As you take your first bite, the turkey’s succulence, paired with the sweet and tangy glaze, will transport you to a place of comfort and joy. Serve these legs atop a bed of wild rice or with a side of roasted vegetables for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delightful.

Orange Balsamic Turkey Legs

Yesterday, as the golden hues of sunset painted the kitchen, I found myself drawn to the comforting ritual of preparing a meal that speaks to the soul. Orange Balsamic Turkey Legs, a dish that marries the tangy sweetness of citrus with the deep, earthy notes of balsamic, became my evening’s muse.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 orange, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Add the turkey legs to the bowl, ensuring each is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated turkey legs in a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over them.
4. Place the orange slices on top of the turkey legs. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat moist during cooking.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the turkey legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a caramelized finish, broil for the last 5 minutes.
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.

Rich in flavor with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, these Orange Balsamic Turkey Legs are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together. Serve them atop a bed of wild rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Garlic Orange Turkey Legs

Yesterday, as the golden light of dusk filtered through my kitchen window, I found myself drawn to the comforting ritual of preparing a meal that marries the zest of citrus with the warmth of garlic, a dish that feels like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 orange, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated turkey legs in a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over them.
4. Lay the orange slices over the turkey legs, then cover the dish with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 1 hour, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the turkey skin is golden and crispy.
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Lightly caramelized edges give way to succulent, flavorful meat beneath, a testament to the magic of simple ingredients combined with patience. Serve these garlic orange turkey legs atop a bed of wild rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a meal that sings of comfort and zest.

Orange Soy Sauce Turkey Legs

Orange soy sauce turkey legs are a dish that marries the bold flavors of citrus and umami in a way that feels both comforting and exotic. On a quiet evening, the aroma of these turkey legs roasting can turn a simple meal into a memorable feast.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and pat them dry with paper towels.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the turkey legs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the turkey legs for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

When you take your first bite, the turkey should be tender and juicy, with a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s both sweet and savory. Serve these legs atop a bed of fluffy rice or with a side of roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce.

Orange Rosemary Turkey Legs

Yesterday, as the golden hues of dusk painted the kitchen, the idea of blending the earthy aroma of rosemary with the zesty brightness of oranges for turkey legs seemed like a whisper from the past, a recipe waiting to be rediscovered.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated turkey legs in a roasting pan, pouring any remaining marinade over them.
4. Scatter the orange slices and rosemary sprigs around the turkey legs in the pan for added flavor and aroma.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the turkey legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), basting occasionally with the pan juices.
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Perfectly roasted, the turkey legs emerge with a crispy skin that gives way to succulent, flavorful meat, infused with the harmonious blend of orange and rosemary. Serve them atop a bed of wild rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Orange Ginger Turkey Legs

Venturing into the kitchen on a quiet afternoon, the aroma of orange and ginger promises a comforting escape. This dish, with its vibrant flavors, is a testament to the joy of slow cooking and the beauty of simple ingredients coming together.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, grated ginger, honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder to create the marinade.
2. Place the turkey legs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and pat them dry with paper towels.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the turkey legs with salt and pepper, then sear them until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Delightfully tender, the turkey legs boast a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with the orange and ginger creating a bright, aromatic glaze. Serve them atop a bed of wild rice or with a side of roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Orange Chili Turkey Legs

Evenings like these call for something that warms the soul, a dish that balances the zest of citrus with the gentle heat of chili. Orange Chili Turkey Legs are just that—a comforting yet vibrant meal that feels like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup fresh orange juice, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp olive oil, and 1 tsp salt to create the marinade.
2. Add 4 turkey legs to the marinade, ensuring each is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
4. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey legs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Resting the turkey legs not only ensures they’re juicy but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The orange chili glaze caramelizes slightly in the oven, offering a sweet and spicy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the tender meat. Serve atop a bed of wild rice or with roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious juices.

Orange Mustard Turkey Legs

Sometimes, the most comforting meals come from the simplest combinations, like the sweet tang of orange paired with the sharp bite of mustard, all melded together on a succulent turkey leg. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and exciting, perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet effortlessly elegant.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Add the turkey legs to the bowl, ensuring each leg is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the turkey legs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the turkey legs, then bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Just as the marinade promises, the turkey legs emerge from the oven with a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy. Serve them atop a bed of wild rice or with a side of roasted vegetables to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.

Orange Pepper Turkey Legs

How the gentle aroma of orange and pepper fills the kitchen, transforming the ordinary into something memorable. This dish, a humble yet vibrant celebration of flavors, invites you to slow down and savor the process as much as the result.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tsp salt
• For the turkey legs:
  • 4 turkey legs
  • 1 orange, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, olive oil, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
2. Add the turkey legs to the bowl, ensuring each is fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated turkey legs in a single layer in a baking dish, and place the orange slices on top.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, then increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes to crisp the skin.
5. Let the turkey legs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Perfectly balanced between the citrusy brightness of orange and the earthy warmth of pepper, these turkey legs emerge succulent and golden. Serve them atop a bed of wild rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Conclusion

Brimming with flavor and variety, our roundup of 12 Delicious Orangey Turkey Legs Recipes offers something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re craving something sweet, spicy, or savory, these dishes promise to delight. We’d love to hear which recipe becomes your favorite—don’t forget to leave a comment and share your culinary adventures with us on Pinterest. Happy cooking!