In this edition of “What’s for Dinner,” we’re diving into a soul food classic that’s perfect for Sunday evenings—or any night when you want to bring the family together around a warm, hearty meal.
Looking for dinner ideas that are simple, comforting, and full of flavor?
You’re in the right place.
We’ll walk you through a flavorful turkey wing dinner with yams, sautéed green beans and onions, plus fluffy white rice.
It’s easy to make, loaded with seasoning, and guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest crowd.
Ready to get started?
Why Soul Food Sundays Are Worth Keeping
There’s something special about Sunday dinners.
- They bring comfort and consistency to a busy week.
- They create memories for your kids that last a lifetime.
- They give you a chance to slow down, cook with intention, and enjoy a meal together.
If you’re wondering what’s for dinner, this soul food-inspired dish is your answer.
Here’s What’s on the Menu Tonight
Main Dish: Oven-Baked Turkey Wings
Sides: Candied Yams, Sautéed Green Beans & Onions, White Rice
This combination is rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Let’s break it down, step by step.
Oven-Baked Turkey Wings
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 turkey wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder (or 1 cube)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C).
- Clean and pat dry the turkey wings.
- Place the wings in a large bowl. Add olive oil and all the seasonings.
- Mix well so every piece is coated evenly.
- If you have a marinade on hand, add a splash. If not, the dry rub and olive oil work great.
- In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of warm water with chicken bouillon powder.
- Pour this mixture into the bottom of a deep baking dish.
- Lay the seasoned wings in the dish. Cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 3 hours, then remove from oven.
- Baste the wings with their juices.
- Return to the oven uncovered and bake for 2 more hours, or until tender and falling off the bone.
Tip: You can broil the wings for the last 5 minutes to get a golden crisp on top.
Candied Yams
Ingredients:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup water
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Layer sliced sweet potatoes in a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix all remaining ingredients.
- Pour the mixture over the yams.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until tender and syrupy.
Sautéed Green Beans with Onions
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or a splash of soy sauce
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add green beans and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender-crisp.
Fluffy White Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring water, salt, and butter to a boil.
- Stir in rice, reduce heat to low, and cover.
- Simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and fluff with a fork before serving.
Why This Meal Works
- Budget-friendly: Turkey wings are affordable and feed a crowd.
- Easy prep: Most of the work is in the oven—hands-off cooking means more time with your family.
- Flavor-packed: With simple seasoning and the right cooking time, every dish is full of taste.
- Nostalgic: This meal brings back that comforting, home-cooked feel.
Make It Your Own
You don’t have to follow this exact lineup every time.
Switch it up based on what you have:
- Swap turkey wings for baked chicken thighs.
- Add cornbread or mac and cheese as extra sides.
- Toss in collard greens or cabbage for more veggies.
Dinner Tips for Busy Parents
- Prep in advance: Season your turkey in the morning and let it marinate.
- Use leftovers wisely: Turkey wings reheat well and can be shredded for sandwiches or wraps.
- Keep it simple: Don’t overthink dinner. Stick to easy steps and basic seasonings.
If you’re wondering what’s for dinner, this soul food classic checks every box:
- It’s warm and filling.
- It’s easy to make.
- And most importantly, it brings people together.
Give it a try tonight.
And while you’re at it, think about your own family dinner traditions.
What meals do you want your kids to remember?
What smells or flavors take you back to childhood?
Let those guide your next dinner choice.
Tell us—what’s for dinner at your house tonight?
Drop your ideas in the comments and share the love.
