Savor the juiciest and most tender turkey with our recipe for Air Fryer Turkey Wings. Experience a hassle-free cooking method that delivers delicious results every time.
Don’t think that fresh turkey wings that are crazy tasty and crispy are only for Thanksgiving. Try making smoked turkey wings in the air fryer—a quick and easy way to spice up any weeknight dinner.
Because they were frozen, these turkey wings turn out perfectly tender on the inside and crispy on the outside when they are air-fried. The best part? They’re made without flour, ensuring a lighter and gluten-free option.
Instead of baking wings in the oven, air-frying turkey is easier and tastes better. The dark meat can be seasoned in a way that makes your mouth water. Each bite delivers a burst of tender meat and that coveted crispy texture.
These seasoned turkey wings will go above and beyond your expectations, whether you’re hungry or want to impress your guests. Air fryer turkey wings are easy to make and taste great. They are flavorful, tender, and always a hit with the family.
Smoked turkey wings are a delicious flavorful appetizer or main course that are perfect for any occasion. While traditionally smoked or baked in the oven, cooking them in an air fryer results in wings that are super crispy on the outside and incredibly moist and tender on the inside in much less time. Read on to learn all the tips tricks and steps for cooking foolproof smoked turkey wings in the air fryer.
Benefits of Cooking Smoked Turkey Wings in an Air Fryer
Air frying smoked turkey wings has many advantages over traditional cooking methods
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Much Faster Cooking Time – Smoked wings reach the ideal texture in about 25 minutes in the air fryer vs. over an hour in the oven.
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Crispy Skin – The circulating hot air crisps up the skin beautifully without drying out the meat.
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Tender and Juicy – The meat stays incredibly moist and tender thanks to the quick cooking time.
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Intensified Smoky Flavor – The short cook time concentrates the smoky taste rather than drying it out.
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Healthier – No need for added fats or oils since the wings cook in their own renderings.
Tips for the Best Air Fried Smoked Turkey Wings
Follow these tips for smoked turkey wings with crispy skin and succulent meat every time you air fry.
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Pat the Wings Dry – Gently pat the wings with paper towels to remove excess moisture for crisper skin.
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Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in a single layer, avoiding overlap for even cooking.
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Use a Dry Rub – For extra flavor, coat in a spice rub before air frying. Brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika and cumin make a great combo.
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Spritz While Cooking – Occasionally opening and spritzing with broth or vinegar every 5-7 minutes adds moisture and flavor.
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Check Temperature – Use an instant-read thermometer to test doneness; wings are safe to eat once they reach 165°F internally.
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Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing them to rest 5-10 minutes after cooking retains juices.
Step-By-Step Instructions for Air Frying Smoked Turkey Wings
Follow this simple process for perfectly cooked smoked turkey wings straight from your air fryer.
Ingredients:
- Smoked turkey wings, thawed if frozen
- Brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, spices of choice
Directions:
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Pat turkey wings dry with paper towels. Mix together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder and any other seasonings in a small bowl. Generously coat wings in the rub.
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Preheat air fryer to 360°F. Spray basket lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil.
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Place wings in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
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Air fry for 13 minutes, then carefully flip wings using tongs. Air fry for another 13 minutes.
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Occasionally check temperature using an instant-read thermometer, until 165°F is reached internally.
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Allow wings to rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Smoked turkey wings pair deliciously with various flavors. Consider serving them:
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As an appetizer with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
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With macaroni and cheese or mashed potatoes for comfort food
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On top of a fresh green salad for a lighter meal
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Alongside collard greens, coleslaw, or corn on the cob
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Brushed or drizzled with your favorite bbq sauce
Extra Crispy Skin
For ultra crispy skin, coat the wings in a mixture of baking powder and salt before seasoning and air frying according to recipe instructions. The baking powder helps dehydrate the skin for a shatteringly crispy texture.
Freezing and Reheating Leftovers
You can freeze any uneaten smoked turkey wings to enjoy later. Let them cool completely before freezing in an airtight container or bag. Reheat frozen wings straight from the freezer by air frying at 360°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
More Delicious Air Fryer Turkey Recipes
The air fryer lets you enjoy moist, tender turkey year-round. Try cooking these turkey recipes in the air fryer:
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
- Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
- Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Air Fryer Turkey Cutlets or Tenderloins
- Air Fryer Whole Turkey Breast
Cooking smoked turkey wings in the air fryer is an easy way to get maximum flavor and crispy texture in way less time than traditional methods. Follow the instructions for perfectly juicy meat and wonderfully crisped skin. Feel free to get creative with different seasonings and serving ideas. Enjoy your delicious air fried smoked turkey wings!
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Air Fryer Turkey Wings?
Leftover turkey wings can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure they are stored in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Turkey Wings
- Use pre smoked wings. You’ll start with a tasty smoky flavor and then fry them until they’re just right.
- Enhance the flavors. Before roasting the wings, rub them with a dry rub or marinade.
- Avoid stacking. This makes sure the food cooks evenly and lets the skin crisp up evenly.
- Baste when flipping. Putting a little broth or a tasty glaze on the wings helps them stay moist.
- Use a meat thermometer. This will keep the wings from cooking too much before they reach 165 degrees F inside. Place the thermometer away from the bone and into the thickest part of the wing.
- Rest before serving. After cooking the turkey wings in an air fryer, let them sit for at least 10 minutes. This lets the juices move around, which makes the meat tender and juicy.
- Avoid cooking spray. Instead, use an EVO Oil Sprayer to put oil on food. This makes sure that the coating is even and controlled, and it doesn’t hurt your air fryer.
Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Wings | Air Fryer Easy Wings
FAQ
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