Smoked Turkey Wings are smoky and flavorful with a little spice. They are the perfect way to enjoy turkey in the summer and a delicious alternative to chicken wings. These wings can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish.
Last Thanksgiving, my husband smoked a whole turkey. Plenty of family was coming over, so I also cooked a turkey in the oven in case the smoked one didn’t turn out right.
As it turned out, the smoked turkey was the star of the entire meal. We thought of other smoked turkey recipes we could make after making this one because everyone loved it.
The obvious first choice are these Smoked Turkey Wings. I used the same chipotle dry rub that I use in my Chipotle-Honey Barbecue Ribs recipe. If you want a less spicy version, you can use regular chili powder instead of the chipotle chili powder.
Smoking turkey wings infuses them with irresistible smoky flavor while keeping the meat incredibly moist and juicy. For the ideal texture, smoking low and slow at 225°F is the way to go. But just how long does it take to smoke turkey wings at this temperature?
The answer depends on a few factors
- The size and thickness of the wings
- Whether they are whole wings or drummettes
- The type of smoker being used
- Altitude and ambient temperature
Follow this guide to learn exactly how long to smoke turkey wings for tender, fall-off-the-bone results every time.
Why Smoke Turkey Wings at 225°F?
Smoking at a low temperature between 225-250°F is ideal for large, tough cuts of meat that need ample time to break down and become tender.
The lower heat tenderizes by slowly softening the collagen in turkey wings over several hours. This is what transforms the meat from chewy to succulent and juicy.
225°F creates the perfect balance between tenderizing the meat and infusing rich smoky flavor. At this temperature range you get:
- Extended smoke exposure for maximum flavor absorption
- Gentle, even heating that keeps meat moist
- Collagen breakdown for tender, pull-apart meat
- No risk of drying out or overcooking the wings
Higher temperatures would mean decreased smoke exposure and moisture loss. Lower temperatures would increase smoke flavor but require an exceptionally long cook time.
For the best results, 225-250°F is the sweet spot for smoking turkey wings.
Factors That Influence Cook Times
Several factors impact how long it takes smoked turkey wings to reach safe internal temperatures. Consider the following when estimating cook times:
Size of Wings
Whole wings or drummettes take longer than wing segments or tips since they contain more meat and bone. Larger, meatier pieces require more time for the heat to penetrate and tenderize.
Bone-In vs Boneless
Boneless wings cook faster than bone-in since bones act as insulation, slowing the heating process. Remove bones for quicker cook times.
Thickness of Meat
Thicker cut wing meat needs a longer cook time than thinner pieces to fully tenderize. Thickness varies based on the size of the whole wings.
Type of Smoker
The design of the smoker influences heat circulation and intensity. Small smokers may require longer cook times than larger, more powerful ones.
Altitude
Higher altitudes reduce the effectiveness of smokers and increase cook times. Adjust times up 5-10% per thousand feet above sea level.
Ambient Temperature
Cold outside temperatures increase cook times since the smoker uses more fuel for heat. Monitor wings carefully in cold weather.
Now that you know what impacts cook time, let’s look at estimated times specifically for smoking turkey wings at 225°F.
How Long to Smoke Turkey Wings at 225°F
To ensure food safety, turkey wings need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use these guidelines for approximate cook times, adjusting as needed based on the factors above:
- Whole turkey wings, 1-2 lbs each: 5-7 hours
- Turkey drummettes only, around 1 lb each: 4-6 hours
- Wing segments (drumette + flat), 12-16 oz each: 3-5 hours
- Wing tips only, 4-8 oz each: 2-3 hours
For the most accurate cook times, always use a meat thermometer to check internal temp rather than relying solely on time.
Things to remember:
- Cook times given are for wings smoked solely at 225°F.
- Turkey wings must reach 165°F internally for food safety.
- The colder and thicker the wings, the longer the cook time.
- Altitude, weather, and smoker type can also extend cook times.
- If unsure, allow extra time. Wings can safely remain in the smoker for long periods.
Properly smoked turkey wings are well worth the wait! Low and slow tenderizes the meat for the perfect texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Smoking Turkey Wings at 225°F
Follow these simple steps for flawlessly smoked turkey wings every time:
1. Prep the Wings
Rinse wings and pat dry. Trim any excess skin or fat. Apply a dry rub for flavor and browning. Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to allow rub to penetrate.
2. Prepare the Smoker
Set up smoker and preheat to 225°F. Use maple, hickory, apple, or cherry wood for optimal flavor. Fill water pan 2/3 full.
3. Smoke the Wings
Place wings on racks, meaty-side up. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest section, avoiding bone. Close smoker and smoke for estimated time based on size.
4. Check Internal Temp
Start checking temp about 1 hour before expected finish time. Wings are done at 165°F. If needed, move to a hotter part of smoker to finish.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove wings and let rest 10-15 minutes before serving. The internal temp will rise 5-10°F. Enjoy!
Smoking turkey wings is worth the wait. For the most tender, smoky results, keep the temperature low at 225°F and smoke until the internal temp hits 165°F.
Refer to these general time estimates for properly smoked wings. Track your cook times to determine the ideal durations for your particular smoker setup and altitude.
With the right technique, you’ll be rewarded with irresistibly smoky, fall-off-the-bone turkey wings!
Why This Recipe Works
This is a very easy recipe to create. The wings are just rubbed with the dry rub and left to sit for at least an hour before being put on the smoker for a couple of hours.
They are the smoky and spicy. We enjoyed them right off the smoker, but you could also add a barbecue sauce if you like.
These wings are gluten free and low in carbohydrates.
- 3 pounds of turkey wings. You can leave them whole or cut them into flats and drumsticks if you’d like.
- You can use regular chili powder instead of chipotle chili powder if you want a less spicy version.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil: the oil will keep the wings moist while you smoke them.
In the recipe card at the end of this post, you can also find the full recipe with steps. You can also print the recipe from the card, if needed.
Cut the wings into flats and drumsticks, if preferred.
Pat the wings dry with paper towels and add to a large bowl or plastic bag.
Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder should all be mixed together well in a small bowl.
Once you add the oil and seasoning to the bowl with the turkey wings, toss them around to cover all of the meat.
Place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least an hour.
When you are ready to begin cooking, preheat your smoker to 225-250°F.
Place the wings over indirect heat.
Add wood chips and maintain a steady smoke. We use pecan wood chips, but cherry or maple wood chips would also work well.
Cover and smoke for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F on a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the thickest portion (not touching the bone).
Remove the wings and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Serve as is, or with your favorite sauce.
- You don’t have to separate the wings into drumsticks and flats, but you can if you want to.
- This recipe works best with pecan, maple, or cherry wood chips.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3 days.
What Temperature Do You Smoke Turkey Wings?
Turkey wings should be smoked at a lower temperature so they don’t cook too quickly and dry out. Try to maintain a steady smoke between 225-250°F for the best results.
BEST BAKED SMOKED TURKEY WINGS!!! How to Make it the RIGHT Way!
FAQ
How long does it take to smoke chicken wings at 225 degrees?
Is it OK to smoke a turkey at 225?
Are smoked turkey wings fully cooked?
How long do you smoke Turkey wings?
Use this dry rub to coat the outside of the turkey wings. Smoke: Put the seasoned wings directly on the hot grill grates and smoke for about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes or until their internal temperature at the thickest part of the wing reaches 160 degrees F (use an instant-read thermometer).
How do you smoke a turkey wing?
With a smoker, your favorite hardwood, and turkey, learn to make the best-smoked turkey wings home. Step 1- Prep. Gently pat the turkey wings with paper towels and brush them with olive oil. Step 2- Season. Combine brown sugar and spices in a small bowl and season the turkey wings with the spice rub. Step 3- Smoke.
How many smoked turkey wings per person?
Depending on the size, plan on about 1-2 wings per person as a main course or appetizer. The two main methods for cooking smoked turkey wings are: Cold smoking: Smoking at temperatures under 200°F infuses flavor without cooking the wings through. This method requires an additional step of baking or grilling to fully cook.
What temperature do you smoke chicken wings?
Smoke the wings at 225 degrees. You will need to smoke the wings until they reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees. Cook time will vary based on the size of your wings. Flats will cook faster than drums. Keep a close watch and monitor if these need to be pulled from the smoker earlier than the other wings. I love to use apple.
Can you cook Turkey wings without a smoker?
Reheat gently in a 300°F oven or toaster oven until warmed through, 15-20 minutes. Microwaving can make the skin soggy. If you don’t have a designated smoker, you can still infuse delicious smoky flavor into turkey wings right in your oven. Here’s a simple oven-smoking method:
How do you cook Turkey wings in a crock pot?
Step 1- Prep. Gently pat the turkey wings with paper towels and brush them with olive oil. Step 2- Season. Combine brown sugar and spices in a small bowl and season the turkey wings with the spice rub. Step 3- Smoke. 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).