These smoked turkey wings are liberally dusted with a boldly flavored BBQ dry rub and infused with mesquite smoke. This barbeque turkey recipe is great for anyone sick of eating the same ol boring turkey.
Plus these are relatively quick to cook, for a smoker at least. These gigantic wings are like the dinosaur version of smoked chicken wings. However, these pterodactyl-sized wings dont take much longer to cook than their smaller chicken cousin.
Smoked turkey wings make for an incredible appetizer or main course, with juicy meat and crispy skin infused with delicious smoky flavor. While smoking times can vary based on the size of the wings and type of smoker, maintaining a temperature of 225°F is ideal for getting the best results. So how long should your turkey wings spend bathing in that lovely smoke?
When smoking turkey wings at a temperature of 225°F, you can expect the wings to take approximately 3-4 hours to fully cook through and take on maximum smoke flavor. This slower smoking time allows the smoke to thoroughly permeate the meat while keeping it nice and moist. Let’s look at why a 225°F temperature works so well and how to know when your wings are perfectly done.
Why 225°F is the Magic Number for Smoking Turkey Wings
There are a few reasons that maintaining 225°F is the best temperature for smoking turkey wings:
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Slow and low – The relatively low temperature cooks the wings gently so they stay incredibly juicy and tender. Higher heat tends to dry out poultry.
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Optimal smoke infusion – At a lower temperature, the wings spend more time soaking up all that delicious smoky flavor from the wood chips or pellets.
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Better smoke penetration – The slower cook time allows the smoke to fully permeate the meat rather than just flavoring the outside
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Foolproof method – At 225°F, it’s nearly impossible to overcook the wings as long as you monitor the internal temperature
While it requires patience, keeping your smoker around 225°F will reward you with the most flavorful, tender and moist smoked turkey wings possible.
Estimating Smoke Times for Turkey Wings
When smoking turkey wings at 225°F, a good rule of thumb is to estimate around 3-4 hours for fully cooked wings. However smoke times can vary based on a few factors
Size of wings – Larger, meatier wings will obviously take longer than smaller wings. Plan for up to 4 hours for extra large wings.
Amount of wings – The more wings you smoke, the longer the overall cook time. Adjust time as needed.
Type of smoker – A charcoal or pellet smoker may cook faster than an electric smoker due to higher airflow.
Weather conditions – Cold or windy days can lengthen the cook time. Monitor wings carefully in weather extremes.
The best way to ensure perfect doneness is to use a good quality meat thermometer. Check the wings after 2.5-3 hours, then monitor until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step-By-Step Guide to Smoking Turkey Wings at 225°F
Follow these simple steps for smoking incredibly delicious turkey wings every time.
1. Prepare Your Wings
- Clean wings and pat dry
- Apply dry rub, marinade, or seasoning as desired
- Allow wings to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking
2. Preheat Your Smoker
- Set up your smoker with preferred wood chips/pellets
- Heat smoker to 225°F
3. Add Wings to the Smoker
- Place seasoned wings directly on grill grates
- Try to avoid overcrowding if smoking a large batch
4. Smoke Wings for 3-4 Hours
- Keep temperature steady at 225°F
- Resist opening smoker; only check after 2.5 hours
- Check internal temp; smoke until wings reach 165°F
5. Remove Wings from Smoker
- Use heavy duty gloves and tongs
- Let wings rest 5-10 minutes before serving
6. Enjoy Your Perfectly Smoked Turkey Wings!
- Dig into succulent, smoky wings
- Pair with your favorite sauces and sides
- Store leftovers in fridge for up to 5 days
When you maintain a 225°F smoker temperature and give your wings ample smoke time, you’ll be rewarded with the most flavorful, juicy wings possible. Utilize a meat thermometer and adjust time for size to nail the perfect doneness. In just 3-4 hours, you can be feasting on delicious smoked turkey wings!
So try out smoking wings low and slow at your next backyard barbecue or for a fun game day appetizer. Your patience will certainly pay off in ultimate smoky satisfaction. Just be prepared for these wings to disappear fast once your guests get a taste!
Can you get crispy skin on the wings?
Smoking meats doesnt typically result in crispy skin because of the low temperature. However, there is a trick I used with my smoked chicken legs recipe where I smoked the meat, then refrigerated it to cool it down before heating it back up under the broiler. The high heat from the broiler will crisp the skin nicely.
What woodchips are best for smoking turkey?
I like to use mesquite woodchips for smoking my turkey wings. Mesquite blends perfectly with the flavors of the BBQ dry rub. However, you can use your favorite wood instead.
Smoked Turkey Wings | Pellet Smoker | Super Easy | How To BBQ
FAQ
How long do smoked wings take at 225?
How long does it take to smoke a turkey at 225 degrees?
Why are my smoked turkey wings tough?
How long can you keep smoked turkey wings?
How long do you smoke Turkey wings?
Place the wings in a preheated smoker and smoke until they reach 165°F, or for 2 hours. Step 4- Finish in the oven (optional). Once the turkey wings are smoked, place them in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until even more crispy. Step 5- Cool and serve. Allow the turkey wings to cool down and serve.
How long do you smoke Turkey wings in a crock pot?
Rub the turkey wings down with cooking oil to ensure the skin crisps up properly. Toss the oiled turkey wings in the spice mixture. Make sure to get a nice thorough, even coating. Place the wings on the smoker rack. Smoke the turkey wings for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F. Serve with your favorite side dishes.
How long does it take to smoke wings at 225?
Depending on the size of the wings and the type of smoker being used, the time required to smoke wings at 225 can vary. Generally speaking, medium-sized wings will take approximately three to four hours when smoked in a traditional smoker at 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can you smoke Turkey wings in a smoker?
Making smoked turkey wings in a smoker is one of our go-to turkey recipe for Thanksgiving. Coat the turkey wings with olive oil and evenly coat with BBQ rub (or your selected dry rub). Transfer to the refrigerator to dry brine for up to 24 hours. Pre-heat the smoker to 225°F.