Determining the correct cooking duration for turkey legs baked at 400 degrees Fahrenheit is crucial for ensuring the meat reaches a safe internal temperature and achieves optimal tenderness. Insufficient cooking can result in a health risk, while overcooking may lead to dryness. Factors influencing the duration include the size and weight of the turkey legs, as well as the accuracy of the oven temperature.
Properly cooked turkey legs offer a flavorful and relatively inexpensive protein source. Historically, roasting has been a primary method of cooking poultry, with temperature and time being key variables to master. The development of accurate oven thermometers has significantly improved the consistency and reliability of this cooking process, reducing the guesswork associated with achieving desired results.