These smoked chicken wings are a tasty treat! They come out juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to the smoky goodness. Perfect for game day or any gathering!
Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy because they aren’t just wings, they’re a party on a plate! I like to serve them with a side of ranch for dipping—delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: For the best texture, fresh wings are ideal. If you can’t find them, frozen wings will work too. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, regular paprika with a drop of liquid smoke can substitute for a similar taste.
Cayenne Pepper: If you prefer milder wings, skip this or reduce the amount. You can also use a pinch of black pepper as a milder alternative.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand, but feel free to make your own for a personal touch! If you want a healthier option, try using a sugar-free barbecue sauce.
How Do You Ensure Crispy Wings?
Getting those wings crispy is key for satisfying bites. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Patting the wings dry with paper towels removes moisture, which helps them crisp up in the smoker.
- Coat them evenly in oil, as it aids browning.
- Smoking at a lower temperature first allows the flavors to penetrate, but for crispiness, crank the heat up briefly at the end, or broil them for a few minutes.
How to Make Smoked Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Wings:
- 2 to 3 pounds chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes, tips removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Glazing and Serving:
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for glazing)
- Fresh herbs (such as chopped parsley or cilantro) for garnish
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to smoke. If you choose to caramelize the wings at the end, add an extra 10 minutes. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying delicious smoked chicken wings in about 2 to 2.5 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Choose wood chips that suit your taste, like hickory for a strong flavor, apple or cherry for a sweeter touch.
2. Prepare the Wings:
Grab some paper towels and carefully pat the chicken wings dry. This helps ensure the skin gets nice and crispy when they’re smoked.
3. Coat with Oil:
In a large bowl, toss the wings with the olive oil until they are evenly coated.
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy!
5. Season the Wings:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the wings. Toss them well to make sure each wing is fully coated in that delicious blend.
6. Arrange on the Smoker:
Place the wings on the smoker racks, ensuring they aren’t crowded. This allows the smoke to circulate freely around each piece.
7. Smoke the Wings:
Let the wings smoke for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the skin should look nice and set.
8. Optional Caramelization:
If you want extra crispy wings, increase the smoker temperature to 350°F (175°C) or transfer the wings to a preheated grill or broiler for about 5–10 minutes. Brush the wings with barbecue sauce during this last step, flipping them halfway for that sticky, glossy finish.
9. Let Them Rest:
Remove the wings from the heat and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the wings to a serving platter, garnish with freshly chopped herbs, and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing alongside celery and carrot sticks. Dig in and enjoy your smoky, flavorful wings!
Feel free to get creative with the seasoning and dipping sauces to match your taste! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the wings are fully thawed before you start. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option.
What Wood Chips Are Best for Smoking Chicken Wings?
Hickory, apple, and cherry are all great options. Hickory provides a strong smoke flavor, while apple and cherry add a touch of sweetness. Feel free to mix and match for your perfect flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Smoked Chicken Wings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through, to help maintain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Wings Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe or add some hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for extra heat. Adjust to your taste and enjoy the kick!
