Turkey Wings Recipe (with Video)

Turkey Wings Recipe: Turkey wings are a delicious, budget-friendly alternative to cooking a whole turkey. They offer juicy meat with crispy skin and are perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year. Whether you want them baked, slow-cooked, fried, or grilled, this guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions to make flavorful turkey wings at home.

From classic oven-baked wings to deep-fried crispy perfection, we will explore different methods to suit your taste. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients Required

Before you begin cooking, gather the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Ingredients

• 4 large turkey wings
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• 1 cup chicken broth or water (for baking or slow cooking)

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (for a caramelized touch)
• Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) for garnish

Step 1: Preparing the Turkey Wings

Cleaning and Trimming

• Rinse the turkey wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• Remove any excess skin or fat if necessary.
• If the wings are too large, you can separate them at the joints using a sharp knife.

Seasoning the Turkey Wings

• Place the turkey wings in a large bowl.
• Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the wings to help the seasoning stick.
• Mix all the dry spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and cayenne).
• Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the wings, making sure they are well coated.
• For extra flavor, marinate the wings for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge.

Step 2: Choosing Your Cooking Method

Now that your turkey wings are seasoned, it’s time to cook them. Choose the method that best suits your preference.

Oven-Baked Turkey Wings

Baking is one of the easiest and healthiest ways to cook turkey wings while keeping them juicy and flavorful.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the seasoned wings in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
3. Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the dish to keep the wings moist.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
5. Remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes, allowing the skin to crisp.
6. Broil for an extra 5 minutes for a golden brown finish.

Slow-Cooked Turkey Wings

Slow cooking ensures fall-off-the-bone tenderness and deep flavor.

Instructions:

1. Place the wings in a slow cooker.
2. Add 1 cup of chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Optionally, place the cooked wings under the broiler for a few minutes for crispy skin.

Fried Turkey Wings

For crispy and golden brown wings, deep frying is the way to go.

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Coat the wings lightly with seasoned flour.
3. Fry in batches for about 10-12 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Drain excess oil on a paper towel before serving.

Grilled Turkey Wings

For a smoky flavor, grilling is a fantastic option.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F-400°F).
2. Place wings on the grill and cook for 40-50 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Brush with sauce in the last 10 minutes for extra flavor.

Step 3: Cooking and Monitoring the Wings

• Always check the internal temperature of the wings using a meat thermometer. They should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Avoid overcooking, as turkey wings can dry out quickly.

Step 4: Serving the Turkey Wings

Best Side Dishes to Serve With Turkey Wings

• Mashed potatoes
• Mac and cheese
• Roasted vegetables
• Cornbread
• Rice and gravy

Garnishing and Presentation

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color.
• Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard.

Tips for the Best Turkey Wings

• Let the seasoning sit – The longer the wings marinate, the better the flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer – Prevents overcooking and dryness.
• Crisp the skin – Use high heat for the last few minutes to get crispy skin.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Turkey wings pair well with a variety of side dishes:

• Mashed potatoes – Classic comfort food.
• Collard greens – Adds a Southern touch.
• Mac and cheese – Creamy and delicious.
• Cornbread – Sweet and buttery complement.

For dipping, serve with ranch, hot sauce, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store cooked turkey wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or air fryer for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs about Turkey Wings Recipe

1. How long does it take to cook turkey wings?

Cooking turkey wings typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. For tender and juicy results, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. What should I season my turkey wings with?

You can season turkey wings with a variety of spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and black pepper. For a richer flavor, consider marinating the wings in a mixture of these spices with some olive oil or butter overnight.

3. Can turkey wings be cooked in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Turkey wings can be cooked in a slow cooker on low heat for about 4 to 5 hours or on high for about 2 to 3 hours. This method is great for achieving fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

4. Are turkey wings healthy?

Turkey wings are a good source of protein but are higher in fat compared to other parts of the turkey. To make them healthier, you can remove the skin and bake them instead of frying.

5. How can I make sure my turkey wings are crispy when baked?

To achieve crispy turkey wings, pat them dry before seasoning and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at a higher temperature, around 400 degrees Fahrenheit, for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

6. What sides go well with turkey wings?

Turkey wings pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, coleslaw, or macaroni and cheese. Choose sides that complement the flavors of your seasonings.

7. How do I store leftover turkey wings?

Leftover turkey wings should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. They will keep for up to three to four days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

Conclusion

Turkey wings are a simple yet flavorful dish that can be prepared in multiple ways to suit any preference. Whether baked, fried, air-fried, or slow-cooked, they make for a hearty meal with crispy skin and juicy meat. Try this recipe and experiment with different seasonings to create your perfect turkey wing dish!