Photos for this recipe are from Erin Hungsberg (IG: erin_hungsberg)

This smoked turkey wings recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy juicy, smoky wings, with crispy skin and a ton of flavor. Whether it's for game day, Thanksgiving or a simple BBQ, these wings are sure to impress.

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Ingredients You'll Need

Turkey Wings: 4-6 large wings
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the meat moist.
Spices: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, black pepper and a little brown sugar, for a sweet and smoky kick. Or, use my homemade bbq seasoning
Wood: Cherry, apple or pecan wood are my favorite
Optional BBQ Sauce or Cowboy butter: For a sticky, sweet finish try this homemade bbq sauce or this flavorful and rich Cowboy butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Turkey Wings

Brining is always optional, but I think it adds so much flavor. Consider brining your wings first. I have a simple, easy to follow recipe here, that adds tons of flavor and moisture to your wings.

2. Season your wings

After brining, rinse your wings off with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Then, coat them in olive oil and apply your favorite bbq seasoning, or try my homemade one here.

3. Prepare Your Grill

Set up your grill or smoker for indirect heat, and preheat it to 275°F. Clean and oil the grill grate to prevent the wings from sticking.

4. Smoke the Turkey Wings

Place the wings on the grill, away from direct heat and close the lid. Slow smoke the wings for about 2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

For crispy skin, increase the grill temperature to high heat (400°F) during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the wings are done, let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. You can brush them with bbq sauce or cowboy butter during the last 10minutes on the grill, if you prefer a saucy finish.

Perfect Pairings for Your Turkey Wings

Serve these smoked turkey wings with classic side dishes like smoked green bean casserole, bacon mac & cheese or creamy mashed potatoes. These sides complement the smoky, juicy wings perfectly, and turn your meal into a culinary pleasure that's sure to impress.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your wings reach the perfect, internal temperature for juicy meat.
For extra flavor, try experimenting with different woods like apple or hickory.
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an air fryer to keep the skin crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this recipe for chicken wings?
Yes! You can substitute chicken wings for turkey wings and follow the same steps for juicy, flavorful wings, with crispy skin.

What's the best wood for a mild flavor?
Cherry wood or apple wood will give you a subtle, fruity smoke, that won't overpower the meat.

How do I store leftover turkey wings?
Store leftover wings in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an air fryer to maintain that crispy bite.

Conclusion

This smoked turkey wings recipe is a great way to enjoy smoky, juicy wings, with crispy skin, perfect for any occasion. Whether it's for a game day feast or a twist on Thanksgiving dinner, these wings deliver a ton of flavor that's easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Looking for more turkey related recipes? Try these out!

How to cook store-bought smoked turkey legs

Smoked turkey breast recipe

How to smoke a whole turkey

Turkey or ham, which should I serve this holiday?