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.
Smoked turkey wings make for an irresistibly flavored, juicy and tender appetizer or main course. While typically smoked low and slow in a smoker or grill, you can also cook pre-smoked turkey wings right on your stovetop with delicious results. With the right techniques, you can achieve wings that are fork-tender, full of smokey flavor, and ready to enjoy in under an hour.
Benefits of Cooking Smoked Wings on the Stove
Stovetop cooking offers several advantages for preparing smoked turkey wings:
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Speed – Smoked wings can be fully cooked in 30-45 minutes on the stove, unlike the 2+ hours needed when smoking from raw
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Convenience – No smoker, grill or lengthy prep needed. Just grab pre-smoked wings and get cooking!
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Versatility – Easily incorporate smoked wings into soups, stews, braises and more.
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Moisture – Steaming and braising helps keep the meat juicy
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Bold flavor – Smoky taste permeates the meat with stove cooking.
How Long Does it Take?
Cooking time can vary based on the size and thickness of the wings as well as stove heat intensity. Here are general guidelines
- Simmering: 30-45 minutes
- Pan frying: 15-20 minutes per side
- Braising: 45-60 minutes
The wings are fully cooked once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step-by-Step Stovetop Cooking Methods
Follow these simple methods for cooking smoked turkey wings on the stove to juicy perfection.
Simmering
Simmering tenderizes the meat and infuses rich flavor.
- Place wings in a pot and add chicken broth or water to cover halfway.
- Add seasonings like garlic, onion, herbs.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook 30-45 minutes until wings are very tender.
Pan Frying
Pan frying crisps the skin while keeping meat moist.
- Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over medium high heat.
- Fry wings in batches 15-20 minutes per side until crisp.
- Drain on a paper towel lined plate.
Braising
Braising produces ultra tender wings in a flavorful sauce.
- Brown wings well on both sides in oil over medium high heat.
- Add broth, wine or other braising liquid to cover halfway.
- Simmer gently 45-60 minutes until wings are fall-off-the-bone tender.
Stewing
Stew for tender, saucy wings perfect over rice or greens.
- Sear wings in oil briefly until browned.
- Add diced aromatics like onion, celery, garlic. Cook 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and tomatoes. Simmer 45-60 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Smoked turkey wings shine in:
- Hearty greens like collard greens, mustard greens, or spinach.
- Rice bowls and grain bowls.
- Pasta dishes, soups and stews.
- Served as an appetizer with ranch or blue cheese dip.
- Piled on a platter with creamy coleslaw and cornbread.
With the right stove cooking techniques, you can easily transform pre-smoked wings into a delicious meal any night of the week. Follow these timings and methods for finger-licking smoked wings ready in under an hour.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Easy Smoked Turkey Wings
FAQ
Are smoked turkey wings already cooked?
- Pre-cooked: Most commercially available smoked turkey wings are already fully cooked through smoking.
- Heating method: You can reheat them in the oven, on the grill, or microwave to serve.
- Check packaging: Always check the product label to confirm the cooking status and any specific heating instructions.
How long to cook a cooked smoked turkey?
Reheat: Place the turkey in the oven and heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The time required will depend on the turkey’s size, but generally, it should take about 10 minutes per pound. So, think anywhere from 90-120 minutes.
How do you know when smoked wings are done?
Place the wings directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and smoke until the internal temperature is 125°F, about 1 hour. Remove the wings from the grill.
How long does it take for turkey wings to boil?
Add thyme, salt, and pepper shortly after the pot starts to boil. Turkey wings should cook until they are tender, 45 to 60 minutes or more. Add warm water as needed to maintain a rich gravy. Serve with rice or potatoes,or just eat them alone.