I'm sure I would have saved it, but can't remember if it was in an email or a push notification my phone? I forgot my password and need to reset it, but can't freaking remember where the recovery code came from to properly search for it.
iPhone 6, iOS 9.3.2
If you have forgotten the password and lost the recovery key you are locked out of your Apple ID. You cannot recover the recovery key other than by having written it down when you set up 2-step verification (you need the password to get a new one).
Assuming you didn't write it down you can proceed no further - Apple cannot unlock your ID.
It wasn't.
There is no notice/email/SMS etc. from Apple. That would be insecure. It was displayed for you on screen only when you created it. The only #'s sent by notification or SMS are device codes that you use to create trusted devices and they are temporary.
Did you make a screenshot of it?
Are you referring to the recovery key from when you set up two-step verification?
Frequently asked questions about two-step verification for Apple ID - Apple Support
How was my iCloud Recovery Key sent to me?
