These smoked chicken wings are a tasty treat! With a smoky flavor and crispy skin, they’re perfect for game day or any family gathering. Easy and fun to make, everyone will love them!
Honestly, I could munch on these all day! I like to serve them with some spicy sauce on the side. Trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds—especially with that smoky goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh or frozen wings work well. If using frozen, make sure to fully defrost before cooking. You can also try drumsticks for a different texture!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great here. You can substitute with melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
Seasonings: Smoked paprika is key for that smoky taste. If you can’t find it, regular paprika plus a bit of liquid smoke could do the trick. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference!
Wood Chips: Hickory is classic for chicken, but applewood offers a sweeter note. If wood chips aren’t available, get creative with herb branches like rosemary or thyme!
How Do You Get Crispy Skin on Smoked Wings?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is all about moisture management. Here’s how:
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning. This makes a big difference!
- Season the wings uniformly without over-saturating them with oil.
- Smoking at a low temperature helps render the fat out. After smoking, a quick finish on a grill or broiler can give a perfect crispy texture.
How to Make Smoked Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, tips removed and separated at joint
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Wood chips for smoking (hickory, apple, or cherry wood recommended)
- Celery sticks (for serving)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1.5 to 2 hours to smoke. So, you can expect a total time of around 2 to 2.5 hours. Grab your favorite drink, relax, and let the smoker do the work while your wings become perfectly smoky and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wings:
Begin by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is crucial because it helps the skin get crispy when cooked. Place the wings in a large bowl.
2. Season:
Drizzle the olive oil over the wings, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This helps the seasonings stick and adds flavor.
3. Mix the Rub:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix over the wings and toss until all wings are coated thoroughly.
4. Preheat Your Smoker:
Prepare your smoker to maintain a steady temperature of 225°F (107°C). Add your choice of wood chips to create a wonderful smoky flavor.
5. Smoke the Wings:
Carefully place the wings directly on the smoker rack in a single layer. Smoke the wings for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking, and monitor until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) with nicely browned and crispy skin.
6. Optional Crisp Up:
If you prefer extra crispy wings, after smoking, finish them on a hot grill or under a broiler for 3-5 minutes on each side. This will give them that irresistible crunch!
7. Serve:
Once cooked, arrange the smoked chicken wings on a wooden platter lined with parchment paper. For an extra touch, you can garnish them with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with celery sticks and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Enjoy your smoky, flavorful wings that are perfect for any occasion! Your friends and family will love them!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge or under cold running water before preparing. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy skin.
What Wood Chips Work Best for Smoking?
Hickory is a classic choice for its strong flavor, but apple and cherry wood add a sweeter, milder taste. Feel free to mix different woods for a unique smoke profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or air fryer to help restore their crispiness.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! You can easily adjust the cayenne pepper to match your heat preference. If you want milder wings, simply omit it or reduce the amount, and feel free to experiment with additional spices to personalize the flavor!
