Southern Smothered Turkey Wings are a comforting dish that features tender turkey wings cooked in a rich, savory gravy. It’s all about warmth and home-cooked goodness!
Honestly, the way those wings soak up the gravy is a game changer. I could eat them with just some fluffy rice or mashed potatoes and be in heaven. 😋
What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to make. Just cook, smother, and serve—great for family dinners or special occasions!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Wings: The star of this dish! Turkey wings offer a rich flavor when slow-cooked. If turkey isn’t available, you can use chicken legs or thighs, which also work well in this recipe.
Seasonings: A mixture of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder gives a tasty flavor. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, use less salt or try seasoning blends without added salt.
Bacon Grease: The traditional fat for browning the wings. You can substitute vegetable oil, olive oil, or butter for a different flavor, though the texture might vary slightly.
Chicken Broth: Essential for flavor in the gravy. If you want a lighter version, use low-sodium broth or vegetable broth. You can also make your own broth if you have leftover bones.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and sage add depth. Dried herbs work if fresh isn’t accessible, but I always prefer fresh for bolder taste. Use about a third of the amount if using dried.
How Can I Make the Gravy Extra Rich and Flavorful?
The gravy is what makes these turkey wings truly special. Start by creating a roux with the flour and onions. This step adds great flavor and thickness to the gravy. Here’s how to make it right:
- After cooking the onions and garlic, stir in reserved flour for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw taste.
- Whisk in the chicken broth slowly to prevent lumps. Keeping the heat low while whisking helps achieve smooth gravy.
- Let the mixture simmer. This deepens the flavor as it cooks down. Don’t rush it; good things take time!
Remember, if the gravy seems too thin at the end, simmer uncovered to let the liquid reduce. Tasting as you go helps you adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Southern Smothered Turkey Wings with Savory Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Wings:
- 4 to 5 pounds turkey wings, separated into drumettes and wingettes
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Dredging:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or bacon grease
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. You’ll spend some time seasoning, dredging, and browning the turkey wings, enjoying the delicious aroma as they simmer away. The results are totally worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Turkey Wings:
In a large bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this seasoning mixture all over the turkey wings to ensure they’re well-flavored.
2. Dredge the Wings:
Place the flour in a shallow dish. Lightly coat each turkey wing in the flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a lovely crust when browned.
3. Brown the Wings:
In a large, heavy skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or bacon grease over medium-high heat. Add the turkey wings in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and brown them on all sides until they turn a nice golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the wings from the pan and set them aside.
4. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring often, until the onions are soft and translucent—around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant.
5. Make the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the reserved flour over the onions and garlic, and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux, which will thicken your gravy later.
6. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and water, making sure no lumps remain. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and sage. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend all the flavors together.
7. Simmer the Turkey Wings:
Return the browned turkey wings back to the skillet, placing them into the gravy. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let them simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the turkey wings are tender and fully cooked through. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Check and Adjust the Gravy:
If you find that the gravy is too thin, uncover the skillet and simmer it without a lid for a few extra minutes to help it thicken. Taste and adjust any seasonings as needed.
9. Serve:
Transfer the turkey wings and gravy to a serving dish, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot over white rice, mashed potatoes, or your choice of delicious Southern sides. Enjoy!
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This recipe results in tender, tasty turkey wings smothered in a savory gravy packed with flavor and warmth. It’s a fantastic dish that embodies the essence of comforting Southern cooking. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat Instead of Turkey Wings?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or legs make great alternatives if turkey wings aren’t available. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken thighs typically take less time to become tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey wings and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Sides Pair Well with Southern Smothered Turkey Wings?
Southern smothered turkey wings are delicious served over white rice or mashed potatoes. They also pair nicely with collard greens, cornbread, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
