If you like chicken wings, the idea of adding turkey wings might seem strange.
But what is the real difference between them? They both have two parts and are usually shaped like drummettes or flat wingettes.
In this blog post, we’ll put aside any ideas you already have about these two tasty favorites and go into detail about what makes each one different and appealing in its own way.
The way they are cooked is different, they are at different points on the nutritional spectrum, they taste different, and more. This way, when it’s time to make that dish, you can give your taste buds something truly special.
The Ultimate Showdown: Are Turkey Wings Better Than Chicken Wings?
Turkey wings and chicken wings are two of the most popular wing options. But when it comes to nutrition and taste which one reigns supreme? Here is a detailed comparison of turkey wings versus chicken wings to help you decide which is better.
Nutritional ProfileWhen looking at the nutritional values of turkey wings versus chicken wings there are some key differences
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Calories: Turkey wings are slightly higher in calories with 100g containing around 239 calories, while 100g of chicken wings contain around 190 calories.
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Fat Content: Turkey wings contain more fat per serving at around 15g, while chicken wings contain around 10g. However, both are still relatively high fat options.
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Protein: Chicken wings contain more protein per serving with around 18g per 100g, while turkey wings contain around 15g. So for a protein boost, chicken wings may be a better bet.
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Iron: Turkey wings contain almost double the amount of iron as chicken wings, with over 2mg per serving compared to 1.2mg. Iron supports red blood cell production.
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Zinc: Both turkey and chicken wings are excellent sources of zinc, but turkey wings contain slightly more with 3.7mg versus 2.4mg per serving. Zinc supports immune function.
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B Vitamins: Turkey and chicken wings are both packed with B vitamins like niacin, B6 and B12. But turkey wings contain just a little more per serving.
So in terms of nutrition, turkey wings are slightly higher in calories and fat, but chicken wings offer more protein. Both provide important micronutrients like iron, zinc and B vitamins.
Taste and Texture
When it comes to taste and texture, there are some noticeable differences between the two:
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Flavor: Turkey wings have a richer, deeper flavor compared to chicken wings. They are often described as more savory and gamier.
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Juiciness: Chicken wings tend to be juicier, while turkey wings can be a little drier, especially if overcooked. The higher fat content in turkey wings can make them more succulent though.
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Texture: Turkey wing meat has a slightly denser, chewier texture than chicken wings. The skin can also be thicker with more attached fat.
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Appearance: Whole turkey wings are much larger than chicken wings. Cut up turkey wing sections may be comparable in size to jumbo chicken wings.
So turkey wings offer more intense flavor but chicken wings tend to be more naturally tender and juicy. With the right cooking method both can be delicious.
Cooking Methods
Chicken and turkey wings can be prepared using similar cooking techniques, but require slightly different approaches:
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Roasting: Roasting brings out the rich, savory flavors in turkey wings. Chicken wings also roast up crisp. Use lower heat for turkey to prevent drying out.
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Grilling: Quick grilling over direct high heat works well for smaller chicken wings. Turkey wings do better over indirect heat at a lower temp.
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Frying: Deep frying makes chicken wings golden and ultra crispy. Turkey wings can also be fried but require more oil and time to crisp up.
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Braising: Slow braising turkey wings makes them super tender and brings out more flavor. Chicken wings can also braise but won’t need as much time.
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Smoking: Smoked turkey wings develop a deeper flavor over low heat. Chicken also takes on great smoked taste.
Both types of wings pair well with a variety of sauces and glazes too. So seasoning and cooking method can make either option shine.
Cost Differences
Due to size and meatiness, turkey wings tend to cost more per pound than chicken wings. Based on national averages:
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Chicken wings cost around $1.99 to $2.99 per pound. Jumbo wings may cost slightly more.
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Turkey wings average around $4.99 per pound, so over twice the price. But you’re getting more edible meat.
When calculating cost per serving, turkey wings may offer more value depending on recipe. But chicken wings are the budget friendly choice.
Health Benefits
Chicken and turkey wings can both deliver healthy nutrients as part of a balanced diet:
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High Protein: The protein in wings helps preserve lean muscle mass and keeps you feeling fuller longer.
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Immune Boosting Zinc: Wings provide zinc which supports immune function and wound healing.
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Energy Producing Iron: The iron in wings enhances oxygen circulation for energy production.
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Mood Lifting B Vitamins: Wings provide B vitamins that convert food into energy and support brain health.
For optimum health benefits, focus on leaner cuts of wings and remove excess skin before eating. Avoid breaded and fried preparations.
The Turkey Wing Versus Chicken Wing Verdict
When comparing turkey wings and chicken wings, both have merits depending on what you’re looking for:
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Turkey wings offer more flavor, iron content and meat for the money. But they are higher in calories and fat.
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Chicken wings contain more protein per calorie and have a naturally tender, juicy texture. But less flavor.
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Cooking method can make a big difference in taste and texture for either option.
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For health, leaner preparations like roasting, grilling or smoking are best. Breaded and fried wings pack more calories.
Ultimately it’s a matter of personal preference. Some will favor richer, meatier turkey wings while others prefer the tenderness of chicken. As an occasional treat, both types of wings can be enjoyed as part of a healthy, well rounded diet. Moderating portion sizes is key to keeping calories in check.
Popular Turkey Wing and Chicken Wing Recipes
Popular poultry wings are Turkey wings and Chicken wings.
Both have unique tastes and textures that attract our taste buds.
Here are some popular recipes for these wings:
- Buffalo turkey or chicken wing recipe.
- BBQ glazed turkey or chicken wing recipe.
- Teriyaki turkey or chicken wing recipe.
- Honey garlic baked turkey or chicken wing recipe.
- Crispy roasted turkey or chicken wing recipe.
- Lemon pepper turkey or chicken wing recipe.
Turkey wings are usually larger than chicken wings, making them an excellent option if you’re serving large gatherings.
However, they require more cooking time than chicken wings because of their size.
On top of that, both turkey and chicken wings are high in fat, so health-conscious eaters shouldn’t eat them.
What are Chicken Wings?
Chicken wings are small, tasty portions of chicken meat that are a favorite among chicken lovers worldwide.
They have three parts: the tip, the middle, and the drumette. All three have a lot of juicy, tender meat.
Before being served with sauces like buffalo, honey barbecue, or garlic parmesan, these pieces are often deep-fried or grilled.
Recently, chicken wings have become very popular because they are easy to eat with your fingers. This makes them great for parties or watching sports.
Simple Baked Turkey Wings – Better than chicken!
FAQ
Are turkey wings healthier than chicken?
Are turkey wings the same as chicken wings?
Are turkey wings any good?
Are chicken wings better than Turkey wings?
Chicken wings, while easier to find year-round and more common in recipes, contain less meat than turkey wings, so you’ll want to cook more of them to compensate. Turkey wings are also a larger cut, so increase your cook time accordingly.
What is the difference between chicken and turkey wing meat?
The protein content, in particular, is nearly the same for both birds when compared to breast meat. Both chicken and turkey wing meat provides the same amount of protein per ounce (28 grams) — about 9 grams (4, 5). Summary There is very little difference in the protein content of white meat cuts of chicken and turkey.
Are turkey wings good for Thanksgiving?
Beyond Thanksgiving or the deli aisle, turkey tends to be an overlooked meat. Few home cooks prepare turkey wings like they cook chicken wings, but these budget-friendly cuts are succulent, flavorful, and meaty. Use turkey wings as a versatile ingredient that easily stars as an appetizer or main dish. What Are Turkey Wings?
Can you substitute Turkey wings for chicken wings?
The skin crisps up nicely for a pleasant textural contrast. Marinating turkey wings helps keep them moist and flavorful during cooking. Featuring almost identical cuts, chicken wings can be substituted for turkey wings in most recipes and vice-versa.
Do Turkey wings need to be cooked?
Turkey wings are also a larger cut, so increase your cook time accordingly. Turkey wings can be served and eaten much like chicken wings—as an appetizer or a main dish. They pair well with a wide assortment of seasonings and sauces and can be fried, grilled, roasted, smoked, or slow-cooked.
Do Turkey wings have a wing tip?
Turkey wings also have a wing tip which are often included in the wing cut and trimmed off before cooking. Popular methods of cooking turkey wings include deep-frying and serving with Buffalo or barbecue sauce, dry-rubbing with spices and grilling, and roasting with herbs in the oven. They can also be used to make turkey stock .