Savory Smoked Turkey Wings – The Ultimate BBQ Experience

These Smoked Turkey Wings are incredibly smoky and flavorful with just the right amount of spice. They make the perfect summer alternative to regular chicken wings and can be served as an impressive appetizer or satisfying main dish.

The first time I smoked a whole turkey for Thanksgiving, I was completely blown away by how incredible it tasted. That smoky flavor penetrated deep into the meat, creating something truly special that had everyone asking for seconds. Since then, I’ve been experimenting with smoking different turkey parts throughout the year – why save such deliciousness just for the holidays?

These smoked turkey wings quickly became a family favorite. Using the same chipotle dry rub I developed for my popular rib recipe (with an option for less heat), these wings deliver big flavor in a more manageable portion than a whole bird. Plus, they’re perfect for summer gatherings when you want something different than the usual chicken wings everyone serves.

Smoked Turkey Wings: Why They’re Better Than Regular Wings

What makes these smoked turkey wings so special? Let me count the ways:

• Incredibly simple to prepare – just apply the rub, let them marinate, and smoke them to perfection
• Deeply smoky with a kick of spice (and you can always add BBQ sauce if desired)
• Naturally gluten-free and low-carb for those with dietary restrictions
• More substantial than chicken wings but with that same satisfying finger-food appeal

The key is in the balance of spices and the slow smoking process that allows the flavors to develop fully while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Trust me – once you try turkey wings prepared this way, regular chicken wings might seem a bit boring by comparison!

Perfect Smoked Turkey Wings Ingredients Table

The complete printable recipe with measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these spectacular smoked turkey wings:

Main Ingredients	Amount	Notes
Turkey wings	3 pounds	Whole or separated
Vegetable oil	1 tablespoon	Helps maintain moisture

Seasoning Mix	Amount	Purpose
Chipotle powder	2 tablespoons	For heat (substitute chili powder for milder taste)
Smoked paprika	1 tablespoon	For color and smoky flavor
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon	For depth of flavor
Salt	1 teaspoon	Enhances all flavors
Onion powder	1/2 teaspoon	For savory notes

While we’re focused on smoked turkey wings today, it’s worth noting that this same spice blend works wonderfully for transforming a basic tuna hamburger helper into something special. Just add a teaspoon of this mix to your next boxed dinner for an upgrade!

How To Prepare Delicious Smoked Turkey Wings Step By Step

If your wings are whole, you can separate them at the joints if desired, creating “drumettes” and “flats” similar to chicken wings. This is optional but makes them easier to handle and ensures more even cooking and more surface area for that delicious rub.

1. Pat the wings dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better.
2. In a small bowl, combine all the dry seasonings: chipotle powder (or chili powder), smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder.
3. Place the wings in a large bowl or zip-top bag, drizzle with the vegetable oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over them. Toss or massage everything together until the wings are evenly coated.
4. Let the seasoned wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour. For even better flavor, you can prepare them the night before and let them marinate overnight.
5. When you’re ready to cook, prepare your smoker by preheating it to 225-250°F. You’ll want to set it up for indirect heat so the wings don’t cook too quickly.
6. Add your wood chips – pecan, cherry, or maple wood all work beautifully with turkey, creating a mild, sweet smoke that complements the meat without overpowering it. Maintain a steady stream of smoke throughout the cooking process.
7. Place the wings on the smoker grates and close the lid.
8. Smoke the wings for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The exact time will depend on the size of your wings and the consistency of your smoker’s temperature.
9. The wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a good meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to touch bone. Don’t overcook them, or they might become dry.
10. Once done, remove the wings from the smoker and let them rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Smoked Turkey Wings Weekend Feast

While smoked turkey wings make an incredible weekend project when you have time to tend the smoker, I understand that weeknights call for quicker solutions. On busy days when I’m craving that same smoky flavor profile but don’t have hours to spare, I’ll sometimes use a similar spice blend to elevate a simple tuna hamburger helper into something special.

However, nothing beats the real deal. These smoked turkey wings develop a beautiful mahogany color and deep flavor that simply can’t be replicated with shortcuts. The meat becomes tender enough to pull easily from the bone but remains incredibly juicy inside.

Serve your smoked turkey wings as is – they’re incredibly flavorful on their own – or with your favorite dipping sauce. A blue cheese dressing, ranch, or even a honey-chipotle sauce would complement these beautifully.

Expert Tips for Perfect Turkey Wings Every Time

• Wing separation is optional but does allow for more even cooking and more spice coverage per bite.
• Wood chip recommendation: Pecan, maple, and cherry wood chips all offer a mild, sweet smoke that pairs perfectly with turkey.
• Leftovers: Store any remaining wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’re delicious cold or gently reheated.
• Heat level: The chipotle powder adds a nice kick, but you can easily adjust the spice level by substituting regular chili powder or even reducing the amount used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should I smoke turkey at?

I recommend smoking turkey wings at 225-250°F. This lower temperature range prevents the meat from drying out and allows the smoke flavor to really penetrate the meat. Going much higher risks tough, dry wings.

How long does it take to turkey ?

Turkey wings typically take about 1.5 to 2 hours to smoke, but this can vary depending on their size. Always use an internal temperature of 165°F as your guide rather than time alone. This ensures they’re safe to eat while still remaining juicy.

What should I serve with turkey wings?

Smoked turkey wings pair wonderfully with classic barbecue sides like:

• Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe
• Vesuvio Potatoes
• Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
• Roasted Pumpkin Tomato Soup – Our Nourishing Table
• Mac and cheese
• Carrot and Chickpea Salad with Parsley Lemon

More Turkey Recipes You’ll Love

• Turkey Necks Recipe

• Simple Turkey Chili

• Smoked Turkey Tails

• Turkey Ribs

If you love this recipe, please follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more delicious recipe ideas!

Did you make these Smoked Turkey Wings? Please leave a comment and rating below – I’d love to hear how they turned out for you!

Smoked Turkey Wings Recipe Card

These Smoked Turkey Wings are smoky and flavorful with a touch of spice. They’re the perfect way to enjoy turkey year-round and make a delicious alternative to chicken wings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Marinating Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 portions | Calories: 499 kcal
Author: Lauren Harris

Ingredients

• 3 pounds turkey wings (whole or separated)
• 2 tablespoons chipotle powder (or regular chili powder for less heat)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Pat the turkey wings dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine chipotle powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder.
3. Place wings in a large bowl, drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with seasoning mixture. Toss until evenly coated.
4. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
5. Preheat smoker to 225-250°F, setting up for indirect heat.
6. Add wood chips (pecan, cherry, or maple recommended).
7. Place wings on smoker grates and close the lid.
8. Smoke for approximately 1.5-2 hours.
9. Wings are done when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Remove from smoker and let rest 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Separating wings is optional but allows for more even cooking and more surface area for spices.
• For a milder flavor, substitute regular chili powder for the chipotle powder.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 499
• Total Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 186mg
• Sodium: 748mg
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 49g

Welcome, I’m luka

Delicious Little Bites is my passion project where I share recipes that bring joy to everyday meals. My approach is simple – create food that’s approachable, flavorful, and brings people together around the table.

Read More…