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Grilled turkey wings are a savory, smoky, and downright delicious alternative to your typical chicken wings. Whether you’re planning a summer cookout or simply want to change up your protein game, turkey wings on the grill offer bold flavor and a satisfying bite. But one of the most common questions people ask is: how long does it take to grill turkey wings?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from prep to grill time, temperature tips, and pro tricks for making the juiciest wings possible. Let’s fire it up!
Choosing the Right Turkey Wings
Before we get into the grill timing, let’s talk turkey literally.
Fresh vs. Frozen
You can grill either, but if you’re working with frozen turkey wings, be sure to thaw them completely before grilling. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid raw spots inside and overcooked skin outside. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Size Matters
Turkey wings can vary in size depending on the bird. Larger wings with more meat will take longer to grill than smaller ones. Always consider the thickness when estimating grill time.
Pre-Marinated or Plain
Some turkey wings come pre-seasoned or marinated. These can save time, but always check the label for added sugars or sodium that might burn on the grill.
Preparing Turkey Wings for the Grill
A little prep goes a long way in making your turkey wings juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled.
Clean and Pat Dry
Rinse the wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning stick and ensures a crispier skin on the grill.
Brining (Optional but Recommended)
Soaking the wings in a simple brine solution (salt + water) for 2–4 hours adds moisture and flavor. You can also toss in garlic, herbs, or citrus slices for a flavor boost.
Seasoning and Marinating
Turkey wings take well to bold flavors. Use a dry rub with paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne, or go the marinating route with BBQ sauce, hot sauce, teriyaki, or lemon-herb blends. Let the wings sit for at least 30 minutes—or overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor infusion.
Setting Up Your Grill
Whether you’re working with a gas or charcoal grill, setting it up properly is key to success.
Gas Grill
- Preheat to medium-high heat (350°F–400°F)
- Use two-zone cooking if possible (one hot side, one cooler side)
Charcoal Grill
- Light coals and arrange them on one side for indirect cooking
- Maintain a grill temperature between 350°F and 400°F
Two-Zone Cooking
This method allows you to start cooking over indirect heat (away from flames) and then finish over direct heat to crisp the skin. It prevents burning while ensuring the meat cooks through evenly.
How Long to Grill Turkey Wings
Now let’s get down to the core question how long do turkey wings take to grill?
General Time Estimate
Turkey wings take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to grill, depending on size, heat level, and cooking method.
Internal Temperature Goal
For safe eating, turkey wings must reach an internal temperature of 165°F. However, cooking them to 175°F–180°F results in more tender, pull-apart meat.
By Grilling Method
1. Direct Heat (Not Preferred Alone)
- Grill at 350°F–400°F
- Cook time: 20–30 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes
- Risk of burning or undercooking if not monitored closely
- Best used at the end of indirect cooking for crisp skin
2. Indirect Heat (Recommended)
- Place wings away from direct flame
- Grill temperature: 350°F–375°F
- Cook for 45–60 minutes, flipping halfway through
- Finish over direct heat for 5–10 minutes to crisp up the skin
3. Low & Slow Smoking or Indirect Grilling
- Grill temp: 275°F–300°F
- Cook time: 1.5–2 hours
- Great for adding smoke flavor with wood chips (hickory, apple, cherry)
- Brush with sauce during the final 15 minutes
Flip Frequency and Monitoring
- Flip every 15–20 minutes during indirect cooking
- For direct heat, flip every 5–7 minutes to avoid burning
- Keep an eye on flare-ups and move wings to a cooler spot if needed
Signs That Turkey Wings Are Done
Don’t guess use your senses (and tools) to know when those wings are ready to eat.
1. Meat Thermometer
- Insert into the thickest part of the wing, avoiding the bone
- 165°F is safe, but aim for 175°F–180°F for more tenderness
2. Visual Cues
- Golden-brown, slightly charred skin
- Juices run clear (not pink or red)
- No pinkness in the meat near the bone
3. Texture
- The meat should feel tender but firm
- Bones should wiggle easily without falling apart
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Turkey Wings
Want to take your wings from “good” to “grill-master” level? Try these tips:
Basting for Flavor
Start basting with sauce (BBQ, buffalo, teriyaki) during the last 10–15 minutes of grilling. This prevents sugars in the sauce from burning too early.
Let Them Rest
After removing wings from the grill, let them rest for 5–10 minutes. This redistributes juices and keeps the meat moist.
Serving Suggestions
- Dips: Ranch, blue cheese, honey mustard
- Sides: Grilled corn, potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans
- Toppings: Chopped herbs, squeeze of lemon, or a dash of hot sauce
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Grilling at Too High Heat
High temps will burn the skin before the inside cooks. Stick to medium or medium-high heat for best results.
2. Not Preheating the Grill
Always let your grill heat up for at least 10–15 minutes before placing the wings on the grates.
3. Skipping the Thermometer
Eyeballing meat temperature is risky. Use an instant-read thermometer for safe and juicy wings.
4. Applying Sauce Too Early
Sauces with sugar can burn if added too soon. Wait until the last 10–15 minutes of cooking.
FAQs About Grilling Turkey Wings
Can You Grill Frozen Turkey Wings?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Frozen wings won’t cook evenly and could result in raw spots. Always thaw before grilling.
How Do You Reheat Grilled Turkey Wings?
Wrap in foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes. You can also reheat on the grill over indirect heat.
Are Grilled Turkey Wings Healthy?
Yes! Turkey is a lean protein, and grilling reduces the need for added fat. Just watch your sauces they can add sugar and sodium.
Conclusion
Grilling turkey wings is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, protein-packed meal with a smoky twist. While the average grill time ranges from 1 to 1.5 hours, the key to perfection lies in temperature control, proper seasoning, and finishing over direct heat for that crispy exterior.
Whether you’re using a gas grill, charcoal, or even a smoker, remember to cook to an internal temperature of 165°F minimum but aim for 175°F–180°F for extra tenderness.
So grab those wings, fire up the grill, and impress your guests with juicy, flavorful, fall-off-the-bone turkey wings they’ll be begging for again.