The Ultimate Smoked Turkey Wings Recipe: Discover Flavorful Ways To Smoke Turkey Wings

​​When it comes to cooking, few things are as satisfying as finding the perfect recipe that brings joy to everyone around the table. That’s how I felt when I discovered the magic of smoked turkey wings recipe. The first time I made this dish, I was blown away by how delicious and flavorful it turned out. The combination of the tender, juicy meat and the smoky flavor made it an instant hit with my family and friends. Since then, it’s become a go-to dish for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter meal. If you’re looking for a smoked turkey wings recipe that’s sure to impress, you can’t go wrong with smoked turkey wings.

What are smoked turkey wings?

Smoked turkey wings are turkey wings that have been seasoned with a dry rub or marinade and then smoked over wood or charcoal to infuse them with a smoky flavor. They can be served as a main dish or used as an ingredient in other dishes such as soups and salads.

Can you eat smoked turkey wings?

Yes, smoked turkey wings are safe and delicious to eat when cooked properly. They are a popular food item and can be enjoyed as a main dish or used as an ingredient in various recipes. However, as with all meats, it is important to handle and cook them safely to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Are smoked turkey wings healthy?

Smoked turkey wings can be a healthy choice when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are some of the benefits:

1. High in protein: Turkey wings are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles.
2. Low in fat: Turkey wings are a lean protein source, meaning they are lower in fat than other meats such as beef or pork.
3. Rich in nutrients: Turkey wings are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
4. Antioxidant properties: Smoked turkey wings contain antioxidants that help to protect your body from free radicals that can damage your cells.
5. Can aid weight loss: Eating turkey wings can help you feel full and satisfied, making it easier to control your appetite and manage your weight.

You should note that the nutritional value of smoked turkey wings can vary depending on the recipe and cooking method. Additionally, consuming too much sodium from the dry rub or marinade used to flavor the wings can be harmful to your health, so it’s important to use these ingredients in moderation.

How many calories in smoked turkey wings?

The number of calories in smoked turkey wings can vary depending on the size of the wings and the recipe used to smoke them. On average, one smoked turkey wing (with skin) can contain around 150-200 calories. 

However, the exact number of calories can vary depending on the specific recipe and cooking method used. Keep in mind that while smoked turkey wings can be a healthy choice when consumed in moderation, they can also be high in sodium and fat if prepared with certain seasonings or marinades.

Pre smoked turkey wings recipe

If you have pre-smoked turkey wings, then the good news is that they are already cooked and just need to be reheated. Here’s how to cook pre-smoked turkey wings:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Place the pre-smoked turkey wings on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
3. Cover the turkey wings with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
4. Bake the turkey wings in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes if they are already thawed, or for 30-40 minutes if they are frozen.
5. Check the internal temperature of the turkey wings with a meat thermometer to ensure they are heated to 165°F (74°C) before serving.
6. Alternatively, you can reheat the pre-smoked turkey wings in a microwave or on a stovetop, but this may cause the skin to become soggy.

Note: If you’re planning to add a glaze or sauce to the turkey wings, it’s best to wait until the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to prevent the glaze from burning.

These pre-smoked turkey wings can be enjoyed as they are or used as a base for smoking or cooking the wings further. The rub adds a delicious flavor that complements the natural taste of the turkey. Store any leftovers in the fridge or freezer for future use.

Why should you cook pre smoked turkey wings?

Here are some reasons why you might choose to cook pre-smoked turkey wings:

1. Convenience: Pre-smoked turkey wings are already partially cooked, which can save you time and effort in the kitchen.
2. Flavor: Pre-smoked turkey wings are infused with smoky flavor that can enhance the taste of your dishes.
3. Versatility: Pre-smoked turkey wings can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, casseroles, and salads.
4. Cost-effective: Pre-smoked turkey wings can be a more affordable option than buying uncooked turkey wings and smoking them yourself.
5. Reduced cooking time: Since pre-smoked turkey wings are already partially cooked, they require less time in the oven or on the grill to finish cooking.
6. Health benefits: Turkey is a lean protein source and is low in fat, making pre-smoked turkey wings a healthy choice for a meal.

The best wood chips for smoking turkey

The choice of wood chips can significantly impact the flavor of the smoked turkey. Here are some of the best woodchips for smoking turkey:

1. Applewood: This is a popular choice for smoking turkey because it imparts a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs well with the mild flavor of turkey.
2. Cherrywood: Another popular option, cherrywood adds a sweet, slightly tart flavor that compliments the richness of smoked turkey.
3. Hickory: Hickory is a strong, robust wood that can add a smoky, bacon-like flavor to the turkey.
4. Pecan: Pecan wood has a mild, nutty flavor that can enhance the natural flavors of the turkey without overpowering it.
5. Maple: Maple wood adds a sweet, subtle flavor that can enhance the flavor of turkey without making it too sweet.

When using wood chips, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker to prevent them from burning too quickly. You can also experiment with different combinations of wood chips to create your own unique flavor profile for smoked turkey.

How to cook smoked turkey wings

Here’s a delicious smoked turkey wings recipe that you can use to cook and enjoy flavorful turkey wings:

Ingredients

• 6 turkey wings
• 1/4 cup dry rub (your choice of flavor)
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your smoker to 225-250°F (107-121°C) and soak your wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Rinse the turkey wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Apply the dry rub evenly over the turkey wings, making sure to coat them well.
4. Place the turkey wings on the smoker grate and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Optional: During the last 30 minutes of smoking, baste the turkey wings with BBQ sauce for a flavorful glaze.
6. Remove the turkey wings from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.

So, how long to cook smoked turkey wings? The cooking time for smoked turkey wings can vary depending on the size of the wings and the temperature of your smoker. In general, it can take 2-3 hours to fully cook smoked turkey wings at a temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C).

Cooking Notes

• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes to 3 hours and 10 minutes
• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Equipment: Smoker, woodchips, thermometer

These smoked turkey wings are perfect as a main dish or as an ingredient in other dishes such as soups or salads. Serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious, smoky flavor!

Substitutions for smoked turkey wings recipe

If you need to make substitutions for the smoked turkey wings recipe, here are a few options:

• Smoked turkey legs: If you can’t find smoked turkey wings, smoked turkey legs are a great substitute. They have a similar flavor and texture and can be used in this recipe with the same cooking time and temperature.
• Chicken broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth, beef broth, or water instead.
• Spices: If you don’t have paprika, thyme, or oregano, you can use other dried herbs and spices that you have on hand, such as rosemary, sage, cumin, or chili powder.
• Onion and garlic: If you don’t have fresh onion or garlic, you can use dried onion flakes or garlic powder instead. Use about 1 teaspoon of each to replace the fresh ingredients.
• Olive oil: You can use any type of cooking oil or butter instead of olive oil.

Remember that substitutions may change the flavor and texture of the recipe, so try to use the closest substitute possible to the original ingredient for the best results.

Alternative methods for smoking turkey wings

While smoking turkey wings in a traditional smoker is a popular and delicious method, there are also several alternative ways to cook them. Here are some alternative methods for smoking turkey wings:

Smoked turkey wings in oven

Here’s a smoked turkey wings recipe in oven:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F.
• Place the smoked turkey wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• Bake for 45-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Let the smoked turkey wings rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Smoked turkey wings in crock pot

• Place the smoked turkey wings in the crockpot.
• Add your preferred seasonings and liquid (such as chicken broth or apple cider vinegar).
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.

Smoked turkey wings in air fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
• Place the smoked turkey wings in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
• Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, flipping the wings halfway through.
• Let the smoked turkey wings rest for a few minutes before serving.

Instant pot smoked turkey wings recipe

• Add the smoked turkey wings, seasonings, and liquid (such as chicken broth or apple cider vinegar) to the instant pot.
• Close the lid and set the pressure valve to sealing.
• Cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Remove the smoked turkey wings from the instant pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking smoked turkey wings in a slow cooker

• Place the smoked turkey wings in the slow cooker.
• Add your preferred seasonings and liquid (such as chicken broth or apple cider vinegar).
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.

Smoked turkey wings in pressure cooker

• Add the smoked turkey wings, seasonings, and liquid (such as chicken broth or apple cider vinegar) to the pressure cooker.
• Close the lid and set the pressure valve to sealing.
• Cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Remove the smoked turkey wings from the pressure cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Smoked turkey wings on grill

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Brush the smoked turkey wings with oil and seasonings.
• Place the smoked turkey wings on the grill grates and cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping them occasionally.
• Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F before removing from the grill and letting them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Alternatives to smoking turkey wings

Smoked turkey wings boiled

Boiling turkey wings is a great way to infuse flavor into the meat while keeping it moist and tender. Simply place the turkey wings in a pot of boiling water, along with your preferred seasonings and aromatics. How long does smoked turkey wings take to boil? Let them cook for about 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Baked smoked turkey wings

Baking smoked turkey wings in the oven is another simple and tasty option. Preheat the oven to 375°F, place the turkey wings on a baking sheet, and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can also add your preferred seasonings and glaze to the wings before baking for extra flavor.

Smothered smoked turkey wings recipe

Smothered smoked turkey wings are a delicious Southern-style dish that is full of flavor. After smoking the turkey wings, place them in a pot with a mixture of sautéed onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. Simmer the mixture for about 30-40 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

Side dishes to serve with smoked turkey wings

Smoked turkey wings are a delicious and flavorful main dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some popular side dishes to serve with smoked turkey wings:

1. Mac and cheese: A classic comfort food that complements the rich and smoky flavor of the turkey wings.
2. Cornbread: A southern favorite that adds a sweet and savory flavor to the meal.
3. Collard greens: A nutritious and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the smoky flavor of the turkey wings.
4. Baked beans: A classic BBQ side dish that adds sweetness and texture to the meal.
5. Sweet potato casserole: A sweet and savory dish that is perfect for a holiday meal or special occasion.

These side dishes are just a few examples of the many options that can be served with smoked turkey wings. Consider adding a variety of sides to your menu to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Serving the smoked turkey wings

Smoked turkey wings are a delicious and flavorful dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. On their own: Smoked turkey wings can be served as a main dish on their own, with or without a sauce.
2. With a sauce: Consider serving the smoked turkey wings with a homemade or store-bought sauce, such as BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or hot sauce.
3. With sides: As mentioned earlier, smoked turkey wings pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mac and cheese, collard greens, baked beans, and sweet potato casserole.
4. In salads: You can also use smoked turkey wings as an ingredient in a salad. Simply shred the meat and add it to a green salad or pasta salad for added flavor and protein.
5. In sandwiches: Smoked turkey wings can be used to make a delicious sandwich. Simply shred the meat and add it to bread or a roll with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and cheese.

Tips for making the best smoked turkey wings

Here are some tips for making the best smoked turkey wings:

1. Choose high-quality turkey wings: Look for fresh, high-quality turkey wings that are not frozen and have a good amount of meat on them.
2. Brine the wings: Brining the turkey wings before smoking can help keep them moist and tender. You can use a simple brine solution of salt, sugar, and water.
3. Use a dry rub or marinade: Applying a dry rub or marinade to the turkey wings before smoking can add flavor and help to tenderize the meat.
4. Use the right wood: Choose the right wood for smoking turkey wings. Apple, cherry, hickory, and pecan are all great choices.
5. Maintain a consistent temperature: Keep the temperature of your smoker between 225-250°F (107-121°C) to ensure that the turkey wings cook evenly.
6. Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey wings. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
7. Let the wings rest: Let the smoked turkey wings rest for 10 minutes after removing them from the smoker. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender.

By following these tips, you can make the best smoked turkey wings that are juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Smoked Turkey Wings

Here’s how to store and reheat smoked turkey wings:

Storage

1. Let the turkey wings cool to room temperature after smoking.
2. Store the turkey wings in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
3. How long does smoked turkey wings last in the fridge? Store the turkey wings in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Place the smoked turkey wings on a baking sheet.
3. Cover the turkey wings with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
4. Bake the turkey wings in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes if they are already thawed, or for 30-40 minutes if they are frozen.
5. Check the internal temperature of the turkey wings with a meat thermometer to ensure they are heated to 165°F (74°C) before serving.
6. Alternatively, you can reheat the smoked turkey wings in a microwave or on a stovetop, but this may cause the skin to become soggy.

Note: Avoid reheating smoked turkey wings more than once as it can lead to food safety issues.

By following these guidelines for storing and reheating smoked turkey wings, you can enjoy delicious and safe leftovers for days after the initial cooking.

FAQs

Where can you find smoked turkey wings?

Smoked turkey wings can typically be found at grocery stores or specialty meat markets. They may also be available for purchase online.

Is there a season for smoked turkey wings?

Smoked turkey wings are typically available year-round, although they may be more popular during the holiday season.

Should I wash smoked turkey before cooking?

It is generally not necessary to wash smoked turkey before cooking as it has already been cooked and prepared. Washing the turkey could increase the risk of cross-contamination and spread bacteria.

Should you spray wings while smoking?

Spraying the wings with a liquid while smoking can help keep them moist and add flavor. A mixture of apple juice and vinegar is a popular choice for spritzing smoked turkey wings.

Should I oil a smoked turkey?

It is not necessary to oil smoked turkey as it has already been cooked and has a natural fat content. Adding oil could make the turkey greasy and detract from its flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the smoked turkey wings recipe is a fantastic choice for a flavorful and memorable meal. With the right preparation and smoking techniques, you can create juicy and tender turkey wings with a crispy and flavorful skin. Whether you choose to stick to traditional flavorings or experiment with different combinations, this recipe is versatile and perfect for any occasion. So next time you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to a delicious meal, don’t hesitate to try your hand at the smoked turkey wings recipe.