Description
These Juicy Oven-Baked Smothered Turkey Wings are slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful homemade gravy until fall-off-the-bone tender. Seasoned to perfection with aromatic herbs, garlic, onions, and a silky brown gravy made from pan drippings, these wings are pure Southern comfort. Perfect for Sunday dinner or any special occasion, this dish delivers soul-warming flavor in every bite — with that golden, caramelized finish only the oven can give.
Ingredients For Juicy Oven-Baked Smothered Turkey Wings in Savory Homemade
For the Turkey Wings:
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2 ½ to 3 lbs turkey wings (split at the joint if large)
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2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
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1 ½ tsp salt
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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1 tsp poultry seasoning or thyme
For the Gravy:
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3 tbsp butter
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3 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 ½ cups chicken or turkey broth (warm)
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1 medium onion, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Season the Turkey Wings
Pat the wings dry. Drizzle with olive oil, then coat with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, and poultry seasoning. Rub well to evenly coat. -
Sear (Optional but Recommended)
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the wings for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step boosts flavor and color. -
Prepare the Gravy Base
In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a light brown roux (about 2–3 minutes). Slowly add warm broth while whisking to create a smooth gravy. Add Worcestershire sauce, onions, and garlic. -
Combine and Bake
Transfer wings to a baking dish. Pour gravy over the wings, ensuring they’re mostly covered. Cover tightly with foil. -
Bake to Perfection
Bake covered for 1 hour and 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 30 minutes, or until wings are fork-tender and the gravy is thickened. -
Serve
Spoon that luscious gravy over the wings and serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or cornbread.
Notes
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You can use turkey drumsticks instead of wings if preferred — just adjust the cooking time (add 15–20 minutes).
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The gravy will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
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For extra flavor, add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the gravy before baking.
Tips
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Pat dry the wings before seasoning for crispy, browned skin.
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Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
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Reheat leftovers in a covered pan with a splash of broth to keep the meat juicy.
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Want extra creaminess? Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or butter at the end.
Servings
🍽️ Serves: 4
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
🕰️ Total Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~420
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Protein: 42g
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Fat: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sodium: 620mg
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Sugar: 1g
(Values may vary slightly based on portion size and ingredients used.)
Health Benefits
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High in Protein: Supports muscle repair and overall strength.
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Rich in Iron and Zinc: Boosts immunity and energy levels.
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Homemade Gravy: Lower in sodium and additives compared to store-bought versions.
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Oven-Baked: Uses less oil than frying — making it a lighter comfort meal.
Q&A
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
✅ Yes! You can prepare and bake the turkey wings a day ahead. Reheat them in the oven at 325°F with foil and a splash of broth until hot.
Q2: How do I make the gravy thicker?
✅ Add a bit more flour when making the roux, or simmer the gravy uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
Q3: Can I make this without flour (gluten-free)?
✅ Absolutely — substitute cornstarch (1 ½ tbsp mixed with 2 tbsp water) for the flour to thicken the gravy.
Q4: What side dishes go best?
✅ Mashed potatoes, rice, collard greens, or cornbread make perfect companions.
Q5: Can I use a slow cooker?
✅ Yes. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until wings are tender. The gravy can be thickened afterward on the stove.