A smoky, tender turkey drumstick with a flavorful dry rub, perfect for a hearty main course or game day snack.
15 min prep
180 min cook
4 servings
380 kcal/serving
Ingredients
4 turkey drumsticks (about 1 lb each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon brown sugar
Instructions
Pat turkey drumsticks dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar. Rub mixture evenly over all drumsticks.
Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C) using wood chips like hickory or applewood.
Place drumsticks directly on smoker grates. Smoke for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) in the thickest part.
Remove from smoker, tent with foil, and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips
For extra moisture, spritz drumsticks with apple juice every 45 minutes during smoking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 300°F oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.