Smoked Chicken Wings

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken Wings:
   • Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks and the skin crisps up during smoking.
   • In a large bowl, drizzle the wings with olive oil and toss to coat.
2. Apply the Dry Rub:
   • In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar.
   • Generously rub this mixture all over the chicken wings, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Smoker:
   • Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your choice of wood chips or pellets for smoke. Hickory adds a bold flavor, while cherry and applewood provide a sweeter, milder smoke.
4. Smoke the Wings:
   • Arrange the wings in a single layer on the smoker rack, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for even cooking.
   • Smoke the wings at 225°F for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Crisp the Skin:
   • For extra crispy skin, increase the smoker temperature to 375°F (190°C) during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can transfer the wings to a hot grill or broil them in the oven for a few minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once cooked, remove the wings from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or barbecue sauce.

Tips for the Best Smoked Chicken Wings

• Choose the Right Wood: Different types of wood chips create different flavors. Hickory is robust, cherry is sweet, and mesquite is strong and earthy. Experiment to find your favorite!
• Keep the Temperature Low and Slow: Smoking at a low temperature ensures the wings cook evenly and absorb plenty of smoke flavor.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the wings are fully cooked without drying out, use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Flip for Even Cooking: Flip the wings halfway through smoking for even cooking and better smoke penetration.
• Customize the Flavor: Add a glaze, sauce, or finishing spice mix to the wings during the last few minutes of cooking to create your perfect flavor profile.

Why Smoked Chicken Wings Are a Crowd Favorite

Smoked chicken wings are a versatile dish that pairs well with almost any side or beverage. Their bold, smoky flavor makes them the star of any gathering, while their easy preparation ensures you can spend more time enjoying the party and less time cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair smoked chicken wings with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread for a complete barbecue meal.
• Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces—honey mustard, buffalo, or garlic aioli—to please different taste preferences.
• Enjoy them as a main course or as an appetizer alongside other smoked meats or grilled veggies.

Conclusion

Smoked chicken wings are a flavorful, juicy, and irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a little prep and some time on the smoker, you can create a savory treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just treating yourself to a smoky snack, these wings are guaranteed to satisfy. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to enjoy the smoky, savory goodness!