These Southern Style Baked Turkey Wings are juicy, tender, and full of flavor! With a crispy skin and a blend of spices, they make a perfect main dish for family dinners.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a big, delicious turkey wing? They’re so easy to make, and I love serving them with some mashed potatoes or rice—perfect comfort food for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Wings: They’re the star of the dish! If you can’t find turkey wings, you can use chicken wings or thighs as a substitute. They will still absorb those delicious spices well.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Use whichever you prefer for flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using avocado oil instead; it’s great for roasting!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, although it won’t have the same depth. Or, if you want a kick, try using chipotle powder.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your wings. You can leave it out for milder wings, or add more if you love heat. Paprika can be used as a milder substitute.
Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute vegetable broth, or simply use water with a pinch of salt for moisture.
How Can I Ensure My Turkey Wings Are Tender and Juicy?
To achieve that tender and juicy texture, slow cooking is key! Here are some tips:
- Start by patting the turkey wings dry. This helps the spices stick better and gives a nice crust when roasted.
- Covering the dish with foil during baking keeps moisture in. This is crucial for tender meat!
- After the long bake, switching to broil helps achieve that crispy skin. Keep a close eye on them during this step to prevent burning.
- Letting the wings rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making them even juicier when you dig in.
Southern Style Baked Turkey Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey Wings:
- 3 to 4 pounds turkey wings, separated
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar or brown sugar
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (optional, for extra kick)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 15 minutes for prep and then around 2 hours for baking. You’ll want to allow some additional time (about 5 minutes) for broiling at the end to get that crispy skin. Plan for around 2 hours and 20 minutes total, including resting time before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later.
2. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, chili powder, and sugar. This mix is going to be the flavorful spice rub for our wings!
3. Season the Turkey Wings:
Using paper towels, pat your turkey wings dry. This step helps to achieve that perfect crispy skin. Coat each wing generously with olive oil or melted butter, then rub the spice mixture all over the wings. Make sure to press the spices in so they stick well!
4. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Place the seasoned wings in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic around and on top of the wings for added flavor.
5. Add Liquid:
Pour the chicken broth or water around the wings in the dish—don’t pour it over the wings to keep those spices intact. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some hot sauce over the top for a spicy kick!
6. Bake the Wings:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the wings are nice and tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
7. Broil for Crispiness:
Once the wings are cooked through, carefully remove the foil, and switch your oven to broil. Broil the wings for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to make sure they don’t burn. This step will crisp up the skin beautifully!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Take the wings out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in the juices. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Southern Style Baked Turkey Wings hot with your favorite sides. They pair wonderfully with collard greens, cornbread, or creamy mashed potatoes. Dig in and enjoy the flavors of the South!
This recipe guarantees tender, juicy turkey wings coated in a delightful blend of spices, with a crispy finish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Can I Use Chicken Wings Instead of Turkey Wings?
Absolutely! Chicken wings can be a great substitute if you’re unable to find turkey wings. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken wings may cook a bit faster than turkey wings.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the turkey wings and apply the spice rub the day before. Just cover and refrigerate them overnight, and then bake them the next day. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat even more!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you want that crispy skin back, try reheating them in the oven!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To adjust the spice level, simply modify the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice mixture. You can omit it entirely for a milder flavor or add more if you like it spicy. Consider including some crushed red pepper flakes for an additional kick without altering the base recipe!