Everybody loves chicken wings. They're a classic snack for game day, a fun dinner, or even a BBQ party. But have you tried smoked chicken wings? Imagine the deep, smoky flavors melting into the juicy meat, making it tender and delicious. You don't need a fancy restaurant to eat smoked wings; you can make them right in your backyard with a smoker.
If you don't have a smoker, no worries; you can still use your grill to get that smoky taste. This recipe is super easy to follow, and the result is wings that are smoky, juicy, and crispy. Get ready to make the best chicken wings ever.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
First, smoking the chicken wings gives them a unique flavor you can't get from frying or baking. The smoke seeps into the meat, making each bite a mix of juicy chicken and smoky goodness. If you've never tried smoked food before, these wings are a great place to start. They're easy to make but taste like you're an expert cook.
Second, this recipe uses a simple rub and sauce that you can make with ingredients you probably already have. You don't need to go out and buy a bunch of fancy spices or sauces. Plus, you can adjust the flavors to match what you like. Want it spicier? Add more pepper. Want it sweeter? Add some honey to the sauce. It's all up to you, making it a flexible and foolproof recipe.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings - These are the star of the dish. You can use wingettes and drumettes. Substitute: Turkey wings but cooking time will differ.
Salt - For seasoning. Substitute: You can use garlic salt for extra flavor.
Black Pepper - Adds a little spice.Substitute: White pepper if you prefer a milder taste.
BBQ Sauce - This adds the main flavor. Substitute: Hot sauce mixed with a bit of honey for a different kick.
Wood Chips - For smoking. These give that smokey flavor. Substitute: If you can't get wood chips, try wood pellets.
Tips
- Dry the chicken wings with a paper towel before seasoning for crispy skin.
- You can marinate the wings in BBQ sauce for a few hours for deeper flavor.
- Make sure your smoker is at the right temperature before putting in the wings.
- Don't rush. Low and slow is the key to perfect smoked wings.
- Always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
How to Serve
Smoked chicken wings are versatile and can suit various occasions, from game days to family dinners. You can serve them as an appetizer or as a main dish, and they pair well with different sides and dips.
- Game Day Platter: Serve these wings with some celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dip.
- Family Dinner: Pair these wings with some coleslaw and cornbread for a hearty meal.
- Fusion Style: Add some lime wedges and cilantro for a zesty, herbaceous twist.
Similar Recipes
Smoked Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Wood chips for smoking
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- While the smoker is heating up, dry the chicken wings with a paper towel.
- Season the chicken wings with salt and pepper.
- Place the wood chips in the smoker.
- Once the smoker is ready, place the chicken wings on the smoker grates.
- Smoke the wings for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- About 15 minutes before they are done, brush the wings with BBQ sauce.
- Once done, remove from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Dry the chicken wings with a paper towel before seasoning for crispy skin.
- You can marinate the wings in BBQ sauce for a few hours for deeper flavor.
- Make sure your smoker is at the right temperature before putting in the wings.
- Don't rush. Low and slow is the key to perfect smoked wings.
- Always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).