What Sides Go With Fried Turkey Wings: 23 Delicious Options

Fried turkey wings make for a finger-licking, satisfying meal or snack Their crispy, juicy texture pairs perfectly with a variety of savory, sweet and spicy side dishes When planning your next turkey wing feast, there are so many delicious sides to consider that will complement the wings beautifully.

In this article I’ll suggest 23 mouthwatering side dishes to serve with your crispy fried turkey wings ranging from classic comfort foods to fun, innovative ideas. I’ll also offer tips on how to balance flavors and textures to create the ultimate turkey wing experience.

Classic Sides for Fried Wings

Some classic side dishes seem like they were just made for fried foods. These familiar options are sure to please.

Coleslaw

Creamy, tangy coleslaw is a timeless pair for southern-style fried fare. The crunch of the shredded cabbage and carrots perfectly contrasts the crispy exterior of the wings. For a fruity twist, try variations like apple coleslaw.

Corn on the Cob

Buttery corn on the cob is a beloved accompaniment for fried chicken, and it works just as well with wings. The natural sweetness balances the salty, savory wings beautifully. Grill or roast the corn for extra caramelized flavor.

Macaroni and Cheese

Mac and cheese is comfort food at its finest. The smooth, cheesy pasta provides a rich counterpoint to the crispy wings. Make it extra decadent with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Baked Beans

Sweet, smoky baked beans are practically guaranteed at any cookout. Their sauce-coated texture stands up well to the wings without competing. Kick it up a notch with spices like dry mustard.

Mashed Potatoes

Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes are impossible to resist, especially with a pool of gravy for dunking those wings. For maximum indulgence, use heavy cream and butter in the spuds

Cornbread

Warm cornbread straight from the oven completes any Southern meal. The slightly sweet, crumbly texture soaks up the juices from the wings perfectly. Jalapeño cornbread adds an extra kick.

Crispy Sides for Crunch

Playing up the crisp factor with fried sides means your whole meal offers fun, contrasting textures.

French Fries

You really can’t go wrong pairing crispy fried wings with french fries. Opt for crispy fries over limp ones for the satisfying contrast of dipping crunchy fries in any sauces from the wings.

Onion Rings

Crispy onion rings offer fantastic textural contrast to the juicy wings. Coating thick-cut rings in a well-seasoned batter before frying keeps them ultra crispy outside and tender inside.

Fried Pickles

For an unexpected crunchy, tangy side, fried pickles are just the thing. They hold up well when fried so you get a satisfying crunch in every bite. Ranch dressing is ideal for dipping.

Potato Wedges

Crisp, golden potato wedges have more surface area for getting ultra crispy than fries. Season the wedges boldly before roasting to stand up to the wings.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Unripened green tomatoes slice into firm rounds that fry up perfectly crisp. A cornmeal batter boosts the crunch factor even more. Fried green tomatoes make a fun, summery side.

Spicy Sides to Turn Up the Heat

If you like some heat with your wings, try these spicy sides to really ignite your tastebuds.

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

For a vegetarian option, buffalo cauliflower bites deliver crunchy, spicy satisfaction. Simply roast cauliflower florets then coat in your favorite hot sauce and blue cheese dressing.

Jalapeño Poppers

No game day spread is complete without cheesy jalapeño poppers. The crisp batter contrasts the spicy, creamy filling perfectly. You may need to make extra for snacking!

Spicy Corn and Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp cucumbers and corn tamed with a healthy dose of lime juice and spice make a refreshing, kicked-up salad ideal with wings.

Ghost Pepper Cheese Grits

Grits get a wickedly spicy twist with the addition of ground ghost peppers, also known as bhut jolokia. The creamy base balances the intense heat.

Spicy Peanut Noodles

Chile crisp sauce gives humble noodles an addictive kick. Cooling peanut butter and fresh cilantro balance out the burning spice.

Sweet Treats for Contrast

Adding something sugary alongside the fried wings keeps things interesting. These sweet sides offer the perfect amount of contrast.

Baked Beans

Baked beans strike a brilliant balance of sweet, tangy and smoky that everyone craves. Molasses and brown sugar give them their signature sweetness.

Cornbread with Honey Butter

Honey butter melting over warm cornbread is hands-down one of life’s greatest pleasures. The natural sweetness pairs flawlessly with fried fare.

Coleslaw with Raisins

For a unique twist, add some juicy raisins to creamy coleslaw. They lend just the right sweetness to cut through the rich wings.

Sweet Potato Fries

Swap regular fries for sweet potato fries to satisfy that crispy craving with some natural sugar. A sprinkle of cinnamon amps up the sweetness even more.

Baked Apples

For a lighter, fruity finale, baked apples are perfect. Simply fill halved apples with brown sugar, butter and cinnamon and bake until tender.

Simple Vegetables for Balance

Don’t forget your veggies – simple preparations allow their bright flavors to shine.

Steamed Broccoli

Plain steamed or roasted broccoli florets won’t compete with the wings but offer some greens. Lemon and garlic jazz up steamed broccoli.

Roasted Carrots

Carrots caramelize beautifully when roasted, becoming ultra sweet and tender. Toss carrots in olive oil and spices and roast at high heat.

Sauteed Spinach

Quick-cooking spinach sautes up in just minutes for an easy veggie addition to any meal. Toss with olive oil and garlic.

Green Salad

A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette dresses up any spread. Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and shredded carrots make classic fixings.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

For finger-friendly veggies, air fry halved Brussels sprouts for crispy, caramelized results without deep frying. Toss in olive oil first.

Putting It All Together

When planning the ultimate fried turkey wing experience, try offering a mix of classic and creative sides:

• Choose 1-2 classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes, coleslaw or cornbread
• Add something crispy and crunchy like fries or onion rings
• Include a spicy component if you like heat, such as buffalo cauliflower or ghost pepper grits
• Contrast with something sweet like baked beans, sweet potato fries or baked apples
• Round it out with fresh veggies for balance like roasted carrots or a green salad

With an array of delicious sides on offer, your fried turkey wings will be the star of a truly memorable feast. Just make sure to have plenty of napkins on hand!