These smoked chicken wings are packed with flavor and have a crispy skin that’ll make your taste buds cheer! They’re perfect for a backyard party or a cozy night in.
You can’t go wrong with these wings—they’re simple to make and disappear quickly! I love serving them with my favorite dipping sauce. Trust me, everyone will want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh or frozen wings work well. If using frozen, allow them to thaw completely for even cooking. You could substitute with drumsticks for a different bite.
Olive Oil: This helps the spices stick and adds moisture. You can use vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a different flavor.
Smoked Paprika: A key ingredient for a smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika with a small touch of liquid smoke can work in a pinch.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice mix! Use more or less cayenne for your preferred heat level. Experiment with your favorite spices like cumin or Italian seasoning.
Wood Chips: Hickory is great for a bold smoke flavor, but apple wood offers a milder, sweeter smoke. Per personal preference, try mesquite for something stronger.
How Do I Get the Skin Extra Crispy?
Getting crispy skin can be tricky but here’s the approach: First, pat the wings dry to remove any moisture. This step is essential for achieving a good texture during smoking.
- After the wings have been smoked for about 1.5 hours at 225°F, boost the heat to 275°F for the last 15 minutes.
- Consider briefly putting them under a broiler (about 1-2 minutes) at the end if you enjoy extra crunch. Just keep an eye on them!
Resting the wings for a few minutes post-smoke allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them juicy inside while the skin remains crispy. Enjoy your wings hot for best results!
How to Make Smoked Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds chicken wings, tips removed and wings split into flats and drumettes
- 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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to smoke the wings. Plus, you may add a few minutes for resting the wings before serving. Total time: around 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Wings
First, pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the skin to crisp up nicely while smoking. A little moisture can make the wings soggy, and nobody wants that!
2. Mixing the Seasoning
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you want some added heat. Stir well to combine all the spices into a flavorful paste.
3. Coating the Wings
Add the chicken wings to the seasoning mixture and toss them until they are evenly coated. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
4. Preheating the Smoker
Next, preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you have wood chips, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand. Use hickory or apple wood chips for a delicious smoky flavor.
5. Smoking the Wings
Arrange the wings on the smoker racks in a single layer, making sure there’s space between each wing for even smoking. Close the lid and let them smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
6. Checking for Doneness
The wings are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin looks crispy and beautifully browned. You can use a meat thermometer to check for this!
7. Crisping the Skin
If you want to make the skin extra crispy, you can increase the smoker temperature to 275°F (135°C) for the last 15 minutes. This step is optional but adds an extra touch of crunch!
8. Resting the Wings
Remove the wings from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them juicy and delightful!
9. Garnishing and Serving
After they have rested, you can garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you like. Then, serve them up hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side, and enjoy!
These smoked chicken wings are sure to be a hit—enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen wings completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and ensures a crispy texture.
What Wood Chips Are Best for Smoking?
Hickory and apple wood chips are popular choices due to their rich flavor. Hickory offers a strong, bold smoke, while apple provides a milder, sweeter taste. Feel free to experiment with different woods to find your favorite!
Can I Prepare the Wings Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the wings in the seasoning mixture a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to smoke them for maximum flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crisp to your liking. Enjoy!