Grilling turkey wings on a charcoal grill can lead to incredibly moist tender and flavorful results when done right. However, getting the timing just right is crucial. Undercook them and you’ll end up with dangerously undercooked meat. Overcook them and the wings will dry out and become tough. So how long should you grill those turkey wings for finger-licking perfection? Read on for a complete guide.
Turkey wings are an underrated and budget-friendly cut that is packed with flavor. Comprised of both the drumette (the upper wing section) and the flat (the lower wing section), turkey wings offer the satisfying crisp skin and juicy meat similar to that of a whole turkey, but in easy-to-eat individual pieces.
Grilling brings out the best in turkey wings. The hot temperatures and smoky flavor from the charcoal impart the wings with a wonderfully charred exterior and irresistible smoky essence. Grilling over direct high heat also renders out the fat under the skin, resulting in super crispy skin. When combined with a flavorful dry rub or sauce glaze grilled turkey wings make for finger-licking good barbecue eats.
Key Factors That Determine Grill Time
Several factors impact just how long you need to grill turkey wings to reach the optimum doneness:
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Size of the wings – Larger, meatier wings will take longer than smaller drumettes.
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Thickness of the meat – Thicker sections of the wings will require more grill time than thinner areas.
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Bone-in or bone-out – Bone-in wings cook slower than boneless.
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Direct or indirect heat – Direct heat cooks faster than indirect.
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Coal temperature – Hotter coals will grill faster than lower heat.
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Frequency of flipping – Less flipping means longer cook times.
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Use of sauce glaze – Saucing too early will extend the time.
Taking these factors into account will allow you to adjust your grill times accordingly.
Recommended Grill Times
As a general guideline when grilling bone-in whole turkey wings on a charcoal grill using a medium-high direct heat:
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For small drumettes (4-6 ounces), grill approximately 15-18 minutes per side.
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For medium drumettes (6-8 ounces), grill approximately 18-22 minutes per side.
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For large drumettes (8-12 ounces), grill approximately 22-28 minutes per side.
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For small wing flats (4-6 ounces), grill approximately 12-15 minutes per side.
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For medium wing flats (6-8 ounces), grill approximately 15-18 minutes per side.
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For large wing flats (8-12 ounces), grill approximately 18-24 minutes per side.
These times are based on a medium-high heat charcoal grill with the wings placed over direct heat, flipped halfway through, and lightly basted with sauce only during the last 5 minutes.
Always rely on a meat thermometer to check for doneness rather than grill times alone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If not fully cooked, continue grilling until it reaches the proper temperature.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Wings Every Time
Follow these tips and tricks to achieve tender, juicy and perfectly cooked grilled turkey wings:
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Pat the wings dry before grilling to promote browning. Wet wings will steam instead.
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Use indirect heat to grill if your wings are extra large or very meaty. This prevents burning.
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Flip frequently, every 8-10 minutes, for even exposure to the heat on both sides.
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Brush on sauce glaze only during the last 5-10 minutes to prevent charring and burning.
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Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest section to check for 165°F doneness.
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Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for juicier meat.
Pair with Sides for a Complete Meal
A full spread of delicious sides really completes a grilled turkey wing feast:
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Coleslaw – Cool, creamy crunch
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Potato salad – Classic barbecue staple
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Corn on the cob – Grilled until charred
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Mac and cheese – ooey-gooey comfort
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Collard greens – Nutritious and flavorful
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Baked beans – Sweet, smoky and tangy
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Fruit salad – Fresh contrast to the rich wings
With the proper technique and timing, grilling turkey wings on a charcoal grill results in finger-licking barbecue bliss. Adjust grill times based on the size and thickness of your wings, rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy, and follow these tips for incredible wings worth devouring.
Kingsford® Preserve the Pit
Kingsford remains committed to celebrating Black barbecue culture by launching the second year of Preserve the Pit and doubling the investment in aspiring barbecue professionals.
An American-made company founded over 100 years ago, Kingsford has a lot to be proud of. Our employees have been continuing the family tradition in backyards across the nation.
Heartier than chicken wings, but just as delicious, these smoked turkey wings will score a big win at any game-day party.
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- 2 whole turkey wings (approximately 3 lb.)
- 0.75 tbsp. Kosher salt
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. ground mustard
- 0.5 tsp. dried parsley
- 0.5 tsp. dried oregano
- 0.25 tsp. ground rosemary
- 0.25 tsp. ground thyme
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
3 The Cook
- When you’re at temp, put cooking oil on a folded paper towel. Grab the oiled paper towel with long-handled tongs and oil the grate thoroughly.
- Place the turkey wing sections on the hot side of the grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes per side until browned and crisp.
- Then, move the turkey wing sections to the cool side of the grill.
- Cover the grill, and allow the wings to smoke for about 40 minutes, until cooked through, and have reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F on a digital meat thermometer.
- Apply your favorite BBQ sauce to the wings and allow them to cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce is sticky.
For safe meat preparation, reference the USDA website.
THE TASTIEST CHARCOAL GRILLED TURKEY | PARTY STYLE BBQ | HOW TO GRILL TURKEY
FAQ
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