Get ready for some tasty smoked chicken wings that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside! Smoked to perfection, these wings have a rich flavor that makes them super fun to eat.
Every bite is like a party in your mouth! I love serving them with my favorite dipping sauce, and trust me, you might just want to keep the napkins handy—they’re that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality chicken wings. If you can’t find wings, you can use drumsticks instead. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: This oil helps the seasoning stick to the wings. You can swap it for other oils like canola or vegetable oil if needed; they will work just as well.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a wonderful smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can work, or you could use a bit more chili powder for heat.
Cayenne Pepper: It’s optional for those who like heat. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, feel free to leave it out!
Wood Chips: Hickory and applewood are great choices, but feel free to experiment with other types like cherry or mesquite for different flavor profiles.
How Do I Get My Wings Crispy?
Achieving crispy wings is all about getting the skin dry before cooking. Here are some steps to help:
- After drying the wings, ensure they are well-coated with oil and seasoning for crispness.
- If smoking, let them cook until they reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) and the skin looks dry.
- To finish, transfer them to a hot grill or a 425°F (220°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. This helps create that irresistible crispy layer.
Following these tips will help ensure your chicken wings are perfectly crispy and full of flavor. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Smoked Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood recommended)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional, for serving)
- Celery and carrot sticks (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smoked chicken wings recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and around 1.5 to 2 hours to cook in the smoker. If you choose to crisp the wings in the oven or grill afterward, factor in an additional 10 minutes. So overall, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wings:
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This removes any excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick better and makes the skin crispier during cooking.
2. Season the Wings:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the wings with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. In a separate small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle the spice rub evenly over the wings and toss again so every wing is coated with the flavorful blend.
3. Preheat the Smoker:
Set your smoker’s temperature to 225°F (107°C). Add the wood chips of your choice, whether hickory or applewood, as per your smoker’s instructions. This will create that delicious smoky flavor you crave!
4. Smoke the Wings:
Place the wings on the smoker racks in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching each other for even cooking. Let them smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). The wings will develop a nice dry skin and a beautiful smoky color.
5. Crisp the Wings (Optional but Recommended):
If you want that extra crispy texture, transfer the wings to a preheated grill or oven set to 425°F (220°C) for 5-10 minutes. Turn them halfway through to achieve an even crispness and slight char on the skin.
6. Serve:
Once done, plate your smoked wings and serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side, along with fresh celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch!
Enjoy your delicious smoked chicken wings, packed with flavor and a perfect balance of tenderness and smokiness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw them before seasoning. The best way is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in cold water for a quicker thawing method.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
What Wood Chips Work Best for Smoking Wings?
Hickory and applewood are both excellent choices that add a delightful smokiness to the wings. Feel free to experiment with other types like cherry or mesquite to find your favorite flavor!
Can I Make These Wings Spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, add more cayenne pepper to the spice mix or toss the smoked wings in your favorite hot sauce after cooking for an extra kick!