When you think of comfort food, turkey wings may not be the first dish that comes to mind, but one bite of these tender, seasoned, oven-baked turkey wings will quickly change that. This recipe is a soul food classic, perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a hearty and satisfying meal. The wings are slow-baked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender, coated in a savory blend of spices, and smothered in rich gravy that makes every bite irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Big on flavor – The seasoning blend infuses the meat with layers of taste. Juicy & tender – Baking low and slow makes the wings incredibly succulent. Easy to prepare – With simple steps and basic ingredients, this recipe is stress-free. Perfect for gatherings – Turkey wings are hearty enough to feed a crowd and pair beautifully with classic sides.
Ingredients
- 3–4 large turkey wings (cut at the joints, separated into flats and drumettes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 ½ cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch (for gravy, optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Turkey Wings
Wash and pat dry the wings with paper towels. Rub with olive oil or melted butter to help the seasoning stick.
2. Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, pepper, salt, and poultry seasoning. Coat the turkey wings evenly with the seasoning blend, making sure every nook and cranny is covered.
3. Build the Flavor Base
In a large baking dish, scatter the sliced onions and minced garlic. Place the seasoned wings on top.
4. Add Moisture
Pour chicken or turkey broth into the pan. This keeps the wings moist while baking and creates a delicious base for gravy.
5. Bake Low & Slow
Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for about 2 to 2 ½ hours, until the wings are fork-tender. Remove the foil for the last 20–30 minutes to allow the skin to crisp up beautifully.
6. Optional Gravy
After baking, pour the pan juices into a saucepan. Whisk in 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch mixed with a little water. Simmer until thickened into a luscious gravy.
Serving Suggestions
These baked turkey wings shine when paired with classic Southern-style sides:
Mashed potatoes (to soak up that gravy) Collard greens or green beans Macaroni and cheese Cornbread or dinner rolls
Tips & Variations
Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick. Make it smoky: Use smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke. Meal prep friendly: Cook ahead of time and reheat gently with extra broth. Holiday alternative: A great option if you want turkey flavor without roasting a whole bird.
Final Thoughts
Baked turkey wings are the very definition of comfort food. With their tender meat, flavorful seasoning, and rich gravy, they’ll make you rethink turkey as just a holiday dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or making a cozy dinner for yourself, these wings are sure to become a regular on your menu.