Delicious smoked chicken wings grilled to perfection with smoky flavor

The Ultimate Smoked Chicken Wings are a game changer for your next gathering or cozy night in. With a smoky flavor that seeps into every juicy bite, these wings are perfect for sharing (or not!).

They’re incredibly simple to prepare, and whether you enjoy them during game day or at a backyard barbecue, these wings will steal the show.

Plus, with just a handful of spices and a little patience in the smoker, you can create a dish that’s mouthwatering and unforgettable!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 300
Protein: 25 grams
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Fat: 22 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

Why I Love This The Ultimate Smoked Chicken Wings

What I love about these Ultimate Smoked Chicken Wings is how they bring people together. Every bite is infused with that delicious smoky goodness, making them a standout at any event. Plus, they’re super easy to make—just toss the wings in a bowl, season them, and let your smoker do all the work.

Whether watching a game or hosting a casual get-together, the aroma wafting from the smoker is enough to get everyone excited. Plus, who doesn’t love that crispy skin after a quick finish on the grill? These wings are a flavor-packed experience that never disappoints!

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken wings
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Wood chips for smoking (e.g., hickory, apple)

How to Make The Ultimate Smoked Chicken Wings

Step 1: Preheat the Smoker

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (105°C). This low and slow method allows the wings to absorb all the delicious smoky flavors.

Step 2: Season the Wings

In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Ensure the wings are evenly coated in the spices for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Smoke the Wings

Place the seasoned wings in the smoker and smoke for about 2 hours. Keep an eye on the temperature, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and optimal juiciness.

Step 4: Crisp the Skin (Optional)

If you love extra crispy wings, finish them on a grill for a few minutes after smoking. This step gives the skin a delightful crunch that complements the smoky flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the wings hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!

Tips & Variations

Wood Choice: Experiment with different wood chips for unique flavors. Hickory gives a strong smoke flavor, while apple wood offers a milder sweetness.
Serving Ideas: Pair these wings with creamy ranch or zesty BBQ sauce. They’re also fantastic with celery sticks and carrot strips for crunch.
Dietary Swaps: Want to make them healthier? Try baking the wings in the oven at a high temperature instead of smoking!
For the Spice Lovers: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a couple of dashes of hot sauce to the olive oil mix for a fiery kick.

Delicious Variations

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Wings: Coat wings in your favorite seasonings, then bake them in the oven for another easy alternative.
Buffalo Chicken Wings: Toss cooked wings in buffalo sauce for a tangy twist on your smoke-infused recipe.
Honey Garlic Wings: Glaze smoked wings with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce for a delightful finish.
Grilled Asian BBQ Wings: Marinate wings in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil before grilling for a delicious Asian-inspired take.

Serving Suggestions for The Ultimate Smoked Chicken Wings

Serve these wings hot off the smoker or grill for the best flavor. Lay them out on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs or green onions for a vibrant touch.

They make an excellent appetizer for a weekend game day or as a fun finger food for a summer cookout.

Pair them with a cold beverage like craft beer or homemade lemonade, and your gathering is sure to be a hit.

For the ultimate experience, consider serving these wings alongside a fresh summer salad or classic coleslaw.

Storage and Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the wings cool and then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the wings in a freezer-safe bag where they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through for the best texture.

Helpful Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and cooking.
What’s the best way to tell if the wings are done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can smoke them a day in advance and reheat them before serving.
What if I don’t have a smoker?
No worries! You can bake them in the oven at a high temperature or use a grill with indirect heat to create a similar effect.
How can I make these wings spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper, incorporate hot sauce into the olive oil mix, or use a spicy rub to kick up the heat!

Enjoy making The Ultimate Smoked Chicken Wings—they’re sure to become a favorite in your home!