How to Cook Smoked Turkey Wings to Perfection in an Instant Pot

Smoked turkey wings are a delicious finger-licking treat that are perfect for game day snacking or a weekend family dinner. With juicy meat that falls right off the bone and an incredible smoky flavor these wings are hard to resist! However, traditional smoking methods can take hours of tedious monitoring and replenishing of the smoke source. This is where the instant pot comes in to save the day! With an instant pot, you can achieve the same succulent, smoky turkey wings in a fraction of the time.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to cook smoked turkey wings flawlessly in your instant pot. From tips for choosing the best wings to step-by-step cooking instructions, you’ll be enjoying show-stopping smoked wings in no time!

Benefits of Using an Instant Pot

The instant pot is a game changer when it comes to cooking smoked turkey wings Here are some of the key advantages

• Speed: You can have fully cooked wings in under an hour with an instant pot. Traditional smoking takes 4-6 hours.

• Convenience: Simply throw the ingredients in the pot and let it do the work. No need for constant monitoring and smoke replenishing.

• Flavors: The pressure cooking seals in juices while the smoke penetrates deeply into the meat.

• Nutrients: Pressure cooking retains more vitamins and minerals compared to other cooking methods.

• Consistency: The instant pot cooks the wings evenly and thoroughly. No worrying about burnt edges or undercooked meat.

Picking the Best Wings

Not all turkey wings are created equal when it comes to getting the perfect smoky flavor and texture after cooking. Here are a few tips for selecting the best wings:

• Go for whole wings: Whole wings with the drumette and flat intact will have more meat than just drumettes alone.

• Get fresh, not frozen: Thawing and cooking frozen wings can lead to uneven cooking. Fresh is best!

• Opt for larger wings: Larger, meatier wings will hold up better to pressure cooking versus smaller skinny wings.

• Avoid pre-smoked: While pre-smoked wings may seem convenient, they are already cooked so will turn out overdone. Go for raw.

Seasoning the Wings

One of the keys to incredible smoked turkey wings is getting a flavorful, spice-infused coating on the meat before cooking.

• Pat the wings dry first to help the seasoning stick.

• Rub spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper all over the wings.

• Consider brining the wings before cooking to really amp up the juiciness. A simple brine of salt, brown sugar and aromatics does the trick.

• Try marinating the wings in a zip top bag with a marinade like barbecue sauce, ranch dressing or hot sauce to complement the smoke.

Step-by-Step Instant Pot Instructions

Cooking smoked turkey wings in an instant pot couldn’t be easier. Just follow these simple steps for perfect wings every time.

• Add 1 cup of liquid like chicken broth, apple juice or water to the instant pot. This will create steam to cook the wings.

• Place a steaming rack in the bottom of the pot and arrange the seasoned wings on top in a single layer.

• Lock the lid in place, seal the pressure valve and select the manual setting for 25 minutes on high pressure.

• Once cooking completes, use the natural pressure release method to safely depressurize.

• Carefully remove the lid, letting steam escape away from you. Transfer wings to a platter.

• For extra crispy skin, broil the wings for 2-3 minutes after cooking.

And that’s all there is to it! With these straightforward steps you’ll have tasty smoked wings ready to devour within an hour.

Serving Suggestions

Smoked turkey wings make a stellar standalone appetizer or main course, but can also be paired with a variety of mouthwatering sides.

• Toss wings in barbecue sauce for a saucy, finger-licking meal.

• Serve wings alongside coleslaw, potato salad or macaroni salad for a classic barbecue feast.

• Offer crunchy crudites and ranch dip as a lighter accompaniment.

• Spoon baked beans, cornbread or collard greens on the plate for traditional southern flavors.

• Cool things down with a blue cheese wedge salad and celery sticks.

However you choose to serve them up, your instant pot smoked turkey wings are sure to be a big hit!

Handy Tips for Instant Pot Success

Looking to become an instant pot smoked wing pro? Keep these handy tips in mind:

• Use an instant pot oil spray to coat the pot before cooking for easy cleanup.

• Allow the pot to fully depressurize naturally for the most tender and juicy wings.

• Consult the instant pot manual to learn the ideal liquid amounts, cook times and release methods for your model.

• Cut whole wings into drumettes and flats for faster, more even cooking.

• Add wood chips to the pot in a smoke box or wrapped in foil for an authentic smoky flavor.

• Turn the wings and mix sauce once or twice during cooking if not cooking in a stackable steamer basket.

• Extend cook time for larger or meatier wings. Cook less time for smaller wings.

• Use poultry shears or a sharp knife to remove wing tips before cooking for better fit in the pot.

With the convenience of the instant pot, you can enjoy tender, juicy smoked turkey wings any night of the week. Forget slaving over a smoker for hours – let your instant pot do the work so you can dig into the delicious wings sooner. Give this easy recipe a try and get ready to become the new wing master in town!