Turkey wings are easy to cook on the BBQ and inexpensive. They're bigger and a little heartier than chicken wings, so if you're feeling hungry and want to try something different give them a go! I have a feeling you're going to love them!
Growing up, I cannot remember ever having a roast turkey (even at Christmas). Roast chicken and in particular wings is what we ate. At Christmas, we would eat some seafood and roast lamb. Not so much because of the cost of turkey but because it just wasn't something we were familiar with.
In high school, I was an exchange student and travelled to Seattle in the US. I stayed with an amazing American family who were so kind and caring. They surprised me with a trip to Disneyland on Spring break. That is where I saw humongous Turkey legs for the very first time! I was intrigued and I think I took a million photos to show my family back home. Fast forward to my adult life.....I decided to try something new a few years ago and cook turkey wings on the BBQ. BOOM! I haven't looked back!
I love cooking turkey wings using Firebrand BBQ Charcoal in my Weber kettle but you can cook them using a gas BBQ, an indoor oven or a smoker. Whatever way you decide, make sure you cook them until the internal temperature reaches 165f (74c) and be generous with the rub. Try my recipe below.
Charcoal BBQ Turkey Wings Recipe
Serves 4 (3 turkey wings per person)
Ingredients
12 Turkey Wings (discard the wing tips because they burn so fast)
3/4 cup olive oil
3 teaspoons ground sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon chilli powder
1 teaspoon ground onion powder
1 teaspoon ground garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Method
Step one - In a small bowl, combine the sweet paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder and salt/pepper and set aside. This is your dry rub.
Step two - Place the turkey wings into a large bowl and coat all pieces with olive oil. Then add the dry rub and coat the wings well. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours (overnight is ideal).
Step three - Prepare your BBQ for indirect grilling. See my notes here. Once the BBQ reaches between 375f to 410f (190c to 210c), place the wings opposite to the charcoal. The lid needs to be closed.
Step four - Cook the turkey wings until the internal temperature reaches 165f (74c). At around 159f (70c), place the wings directly over the charcoal to give them a quick final sear. Depending on the size of the turkey wings the complete cook will take around 20 to 30 minutes in total but checking the internal temperature is essential.
Step five - Rest for about 5 minutes and serve hot.
Notes
- I often like to use the flat large piece of the turkey wing as it has more meat and I find it cooks more evenly.
- If you like sticky wings, brush them 15 minutes into the cook.
- If you want to add a smoky flavour to your turkey wings, add 2-3 chunks of wood to the charcoal or use a smoker.
- If you're using a gas BBQ, prepare it for indirect cooking (turn off the center burner) and preheat it to 200c. If your gas BBQ only has 2 burners, then only light one side.
Time poor? Use your favourite commercial rub.
Quick final sear over charcoal gives turkey wings perfect colour and flavour.
I would love to see you create this recipe on Instagram. Be sure to tag me Come Grill With Me so I can check it out. Love, Irene XO.