Braised Turkey Legs
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This slow-braised turkey legs recipe offers a deeply savoury and nutritious alternative to a traditional roast. By gently simmering the turkey drumsticks and thighs with aromatic leeks, celery, and fresh herbs, the meat becomes exceptionally tender while creating a rich, flavourful broth. Using lower-sodium chicken stock and plenty of fresh vegetables ensures the dish remains wholesome and light, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a balanced, heart-healthy meal.
A fantastic option for a diabetes-friendly diet, this high-protein main course focuses on lean poultry and fibre-rich root vegetables. The inclusion of fresh parsley, sage, and chives provides a vibrant finish without the need for heavy creams or flour-based thickeners. Serve this comforting dish as a Sunday lunch or a midweek treat, perhaps alongside a portion of steamed greens or roasted cauliflower for a complete and satisfying dinner.
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Ingredients for Braised Turkey Legs
2 skin-on turkey drumsticks (about 675g)
2 skin-on, bone-in turkey thighs (about 900g )
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 large leeks, whites and pale greens, chopped
6 celery stalks, thinly sliced
8 garlic cloves, crushed
1 1/2 cups dry white wine
4 sprigs flat-leaf parsley, plus 1/2 cup chopped leaves
4 sprigs thyme
2 sprigs sage
1450ml low-sodium chicken broth
8 small carrots, tops trimmed, carrots halved lengthwise
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
How to make Braised Turkey Legs
Season turkey with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Working in batches, cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, 15–20 minutes per batch; transfer to a large plate.
Add onion, leeks, celery, and garlic to pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 5–8 minutes. Add wine, parsley, and thyme and sage sprigs; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until reduced by half, 8–10 minutes.
Return turkey to pot and add broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover pot, and simmer until meat is tender and cooked through and liquid is reduced by half, 2 1/2–3 hours. Add carrots and cook, uncovered, until carrots are soft and meat is falling off the bone, 35–45 minutes; season with salt and pepper.
Transfer turkey and carrots to a platter. Strain sauce; serve alongside. Top with chives and 1/2 cup chopped parsley.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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