Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's also incredibly flavorful? Look no further than this slow cooker turkey wings recipe! Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this recipe lets your slow cooker do all the hard work, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tender turkey wings bursting with juicy goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs turkey wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind!)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Pat the turkey wings dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better and develop a nice crispy skin (if desired – see tips below).
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
Slow Cooking the Turkey Wings:
- Place the vegetables in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Arrange the turkey wings on top of the vegetables.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
- Pour the sauce evenly over the turkey wings.
Cooking and Serving:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the turkey wings are very tender and easily fall off the bone.
- Once cooked, you can shred the turkey wings with two forks if desired, or serve them whole.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Turkey Wings:
- For crispier skin: Before placing the wings in the slow cooker, you can sear them in a skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side. This adds a delicious crispy texture.
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space between the wings for even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or BBQ sauce depending on your preference.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve these tender turkey wings with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. They're perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Turkey Wings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Savory: Use a honey-based BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, oregano, or garlic powder.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate for one serving of 2 turkey wings with a portion of the sauce and vegetables.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This slow cooker turkey wings recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights and offering a satisfying, quick dinner idea. Enjoy!