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Satisfy your cravings with crispy fried turkey wings, a flavorful and hearty twist on traditional chicken wings. Turkey wings, with their juicy meat and rich flavor, lend themselves perfectly to frying, giving you a crispy, golden-brown exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy meat inside. This recipe combines a perfect blend of spices, techniques, and tips to achieve a result that’s both flavorful and consistently crispy.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to make fried turkey wings that are crispy, delicious, and sure to impress. We’ll cover why turkey wings are an excellent choice for frying, essential ingredients and seasonings, tips for achieving the crispiest wings possible, and techniques for storing and reheating them to maintain that perfect crunch.
Why Choose Turkey Wings?
Why Turkey Wings Are Perfect for Frying
Turkey wings bring a unique quality to the table that makes them ideal for frying. Unlike chicken wings, turkey wings are larger, meatier, and have a richer flavor, which allows them to hold up well to frying without losing moisture or tenderness. They’re a fantastic option for those who want a heartier snack or meal and are especially great for gatherings and game days.
Beyond their size and flavor, turkey wings also offer a range of nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins B6 and B12, and minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium. They’re also lower in fat than other cuts of red meat, making them a satisfying yet healthier choice for fried dishes. The richness of turkey wings makes them a versatile protein that can absorb bold flavors from seasonings and marinades, allowing you to get creative with spices, herbs, and sauces.
Essential Ingredients for Crispy Fried Turkey Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need for Flavorful, Crispy Fried Turkey Wings
To make crispy fried turkey wings, gathering high-quality ingredients is key. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Turkey Wings: Look for fresh turkey wings that are medium-sized for easier frying. The skin should be intact, as it helps protect the meat and adds to the crispiness. You can find turkey wings at most grocery stores, especially around the holiday season.
- Coating Ingredients: To achieve a light, crispy texture, use a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch. The cornstarch helps create a light, airy coating that crisps up beautifully when fried.
- Seasonings and Marinades: Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper create a base layer of flavor. For a richer taste, consider adding smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Cajun seasoning. You can also marinate the turkey wings in buttermilk, which not only adds a mild tang but also tenderizes the meat, making it juicier.
- Oil for Frying: For the best results, choose an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil. These oils have a neutral flavor and can withstand high temperatures, ensuring a crispy result without overpowering the natural flavors of the turkey.
Pro Tip: Marinating the turkey wings in buttermilk for several hours or even overnight enhances both the flavor and texture, giving you tender, flavorful meat that’s ready to absorb the crispy coating.
How to Prepare Turkey Wings for Frying
Preparing Turkey Wings for Perfect Frying
Proper preparation is crucial to ensuring your turkey wings turn out juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Follow these steps to get your turkey wings ready for frying:
- Marinate the Turkey Wings: Begin by marinating your turkey wings for a few hours in buttermilk or your favorite brine. Buttermilk is ideal because it tenderizes the meat, infuses it with a mild tang, and helps the coating adhere better. Add spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even hot sauce to the buttermilk for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pat Dry the Wings: Once marinated, remove the turkey wings from the buttermilk, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and then pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential for a crispy coating, as too much moisture can prevent the batter from adhering and crisping up properly.
- Season the Turkey Wings: Before coating, sprinkle the wings with a base layer of seasoning. A simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works well, but feel free to get creative with other spices to suit your taste. Seasoning the meat before coating adds an extra depth of flavor and ensures the wings are flavorful all the way through.
Expert Tip: For even better flavor, marinate your turkey wings overnight. This extended marination process allows the meat to fully absorb the flavors, making each bite more delicious.

The Best Coating for Extra Crispy Turkey Wings
Achieving the Perfect Crispy Coating
A well-balanced coating is key to achieving that coveted crispy, golden-brown crust on fried turkey wings. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Flour and Cornstarch Mix: Combine equal parts of all-purpose flour and cornstarch for a light, crispy texture. Cornstarch creates a thinner, crisper crust, while the flour provides structure and adds a slight chew. This mix will help create that shatteringly crisp crust you’re looking for.
- Seasoning the Coating: Add seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour-cornstarch mixture. This not only seasons the crust but also adds a pop of flavor in every bite.
- Double Coating Technique: For an extra-crispy finish, consider using a double-coating method. Start by dredging the wings in the flour-cornstarch mixture, then dip them briefly in water or buttermilk, and dredge again in the flour mixture. This double coating creates a thicker, crunchier crust that stays crispy for longer.
- Add Baking Powder: A pinch of baking powder in the coating mixture can enhance the crispiness by adding lightness to the crust. Baking powder releases tiny air bubbles when fried, making the crust puff up slightly for a lighter, crunchier texture.
Pro Tip: Season both the turkey wings and the coating mixture. This layering of flavors ensures each bite is well-seasoned from the crust to the meat inside.
Frying the Turkey Wings to Golden Perfection
How to Fry Turkey Wings for a Crispy, Golden Brown Finish
Frying is where the magic happens. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly fried turkey wings with a crisp, golden exterior and juicy interior:
- Heat the Oil: Begin by heating your oil to around 350°F to 375°F in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven. Maintaining a stable temperature is crucial to prevent the wings from absorbing too much oil or burning. Use a thermometer to keep the oil within this range for consistent results.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this lowers the oil temperature and prevents the wings from cooking evenly. Fry the turkey wings in small batches, allowing enough space between them for the oil to circulate. This helps each wing achieve a golden-brown color and crispy texture.
- Cooking Time: Turkey wings typically take about 8–10 minutes per side to cook through and turn golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, the safe temperature for poultry.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the wings from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Allow them to rest briefly so the oil drains off, leaving the wings perfectly crisp.
Pro Tip: If you’re cooking for a large group, keep fried wings warm in the oven at 200°F while frying additional batches. This keeps them crispy without drying them out.
Seasoning and Sauces for Fried Turkey Wings
Delicious Seasoning Ideas and Sauces to Elevate Your Fried Turkey Wings
The seasoning and sauces are what make these turkey wings truly shine. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combinations.
- Seasoning Ideas:
- Cajun Seasoning: A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper creates a spicy, flavorful crust that pairs perfectly with fried wings.
- Garlic-Parmesan: Toss the wings in a mix of melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese after frying for a rich, savory flavor.
- Lemon-Pepper: A dash of lemon zest, black pepper, and salt adds a refreshing, tangy twist.
- Sauce Pairings:
- Buffalo Sauce: For classic spice, coat your wings in a homemade buffalo sauce made with hot sauce and melted butter.
- Honey Mustard: This sweet and tangy sauce provides a nice contrast to the crispy, savory wings.
- Spicy Aioli: Combine mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of sriracha for a creamy dip with a kick.
Serving Tip: Offer a selection of sauces and seasonings at the table so guests can customize their wings to their liking. Pair the wings with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a light coleslaw to balance the richness.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Fried Turkey Wings
How to Store and Reheat Fried Turkey Wings While Keeping Them Crispy
Fried turkey wings are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them for the best results:
- Storage:
- Place the fried turkey wings in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent the wings from sticking together.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Air Fryer: For quick reheating, use an air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. This method preserves the crispy coating while warming the meat.
- Avoid Microwaving: Microwaving can make the wings soggy, so it’s best to reheat them using the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Pro Tip: To keep fried turkey wings crispy when serving at a party, place them on a warming tray or in an oven set at 200°F until ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fried Turkey Wings
FAQs: Your Questions on Crispy Fried Turkey Wings Answered
Can I bake or air fry the turkey wings instead of deep frying?
Yes, if you prefer a healthier option, you can bake or air fry the wings. Baking at 400°F for 35–40 minutes or using an air fryer at 375°F for 25–30 minutes can produce a similar crispiness.
What’s the best way to make the wings spicier?
To add extra heat, include cayenne pepper in the seasoning or coat the wings in buffalo or hot sauce after frying. For an extra-spicy twist, add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
How do I keep the wings crispy for longer if serving at a party?
Keep the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet in an oven set at 200°F until ready to serve. This keeps them warm and crispy without drying them out.
Can I freeze leftover fried turkey wings?
Yes, you can freeze leftover wings. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Conclusion
Crispy fried turkey wings are a delicious, hearty treat that brings something special to any meal or gathering. With the right seasonings, coating, and frying techniques, you can achieve wings that are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The options for flavors, sauces, and seasonings are endless, so feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own.
Ready to try making crispy fried turkey wings? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself to a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress! Share your creations in the comments below or tag us on social media with your results.