how long to cook turkey wings in instant pot

3 min read 16-01-2025

how long to cook turkey wings in instant pot

Meta Description: Discover the perfect Instant Pot turkey wing cooking time for juicy, fall-off-the-bone results! This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions, tips, and variations to help you master this easy weeknight meal. Learn how to achieve tender, flavorful turkey wings every time with our foolproof method. Get ready to impress your family with this delicious and effortless recipe!

Unlocking Perfectly Cooked Instant Pot Turkey Wings

Turkey wings offer incredible value – tons of flavor at a fraction of the cost of a whole turkey breast. And with an Instant Pot, cooking them becomes a breeze! Forget hours of oven roasting; you can enjoy tender, juicy turkey wings in a fraction of the time. This guide will walk you through achieving perfectly cooked Instant Pot turkey wings every time.

Prep Work: Getting Started Right

Before you even think about the Instant Pot, proper preparation is key to succulent turkey wings.

Essential Ingredients:

2-3 lbs turkey wings (separate drumettes and flats for even cooking if desired)
1 cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, your favorite herbs and spices (paprika, thyme, rosemary, etc.)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Rinse the Wings: Rinse the turkey wings under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Dry wings brown better and develop a more flavorful crust.
Season Generously: In a bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you choose. Ensure all sides are evenly coated.
Sear (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor and browning, sear the wings in a little oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. This step helps develop a beautiful crust.

Instant Pot Cooking Time: The Perfect Timing

The cooking time for turkey wings in an Instant Pot depends on their size and whether you prefer fall-off-the-bone tenderness or slightly firmer meat.

How Long to Pressure Cook Turkey Wings:

For fall-off-the-bone tenderness: 20 minutes on high pressure, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release (NPR), then a quick release of any remaining pressure.
For slightly firmer meat: 15 minutes on high pressure, followed by a 5-minute NPR, then a quick release.

Important Note: Always ensure that your Instant Pot has reached full pressure before beginning the timer countdown.

Troubleshooting and Tips for Success

Why are my turkey wings dry?

Overcooking is the most common culprit. Stick to the recommended cooking times, and always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Adding a little extra liquid (broth or water) can also prevent dryness.

How to make extra juicy turkey wings?

Adding a splash of liquid, such as chicken broth or white wine, to the Instant Pot helps keep the turkey wings moist during cooking. Basting them halfway through the cooking process can also improve juiciness.

What to do with leftover turkey wings?

Leftover turkey wings are fantastic in salads, soups, tacos, or sandwiches! Shred the meat and use it in any recipe calling for cooked chicken or turkey.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

Serve your perfectly cooked Instant Pot turkey wings with your favorite sides! Some popular options include:

Mashed potatoes
Roasted vegetables
Rice pilaf
Cornbread
Gravy (made with the pan drippings)

Conclusion: Your Instant Pot Turkey Wing Adventure

With this easy guide, cooking delicious turkey wings in your Instant Pot is now a simple and enjoyable experience. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your preferences and always use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful results. Enjoy!