Unleash the flavors of smoky goodness with this recipe for smoky chicken wings. Perfect for a BBQ party or a family dinner, these wings are coated with a tangy BBQ sauce and smoked to perfection, resulting in a layer of crunch on the outside and juicy, succulent meat inside. Each bite delivers a burst of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors making it a hit among both adults and kids.
The key ingredients for this recipe are chicken wings, BBQ spice rub, and BBQ sauce. Chicken wings are easily available in any supermarket. For the BBQ spice rub, you can find it in the spice aisle, but if you can't find it, you can make your own by mixing common spices like paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder. The BBQ sauce is also readily available in the condiment aisle in most supermarkets, but feel free to use a homemade version if you prefer.
Ingredients for Smoky Chicken Wings
Chicken wings: These are the star of the recipe. They have a good mix of lean and fatty meat, making them perfect for smoking.
BBQ spice rub: This gives the wings their spicy and smoky flavor. You can adjust the heat to your preference.
BBQ sauce: It adds a tangy sweetness that complements the smoky flavor of the wings. You can choose a sauce with a heat level that suits your taste.
One reader, Anica Griffis says:
These smoky chicken wings are a game-changer! The perfect blend of spices and smokiness makes them irresistible. The meat is tender and juicy, and the BBQ sauce adds a delicious finishing touch. A must-try for any BBQ enthusiast!
Techniques for Perfect Smoky Chicken Wings
How to preheat the smoker: Preheat the smoker to 250 degrees F.
How to load the smoker with wood chips: Load the smoker with apple wood, cherry wood, or hickory chips.
How to coat the chicken wings with the spice rub: Evenly coat the chicken wings with the BBQ spice rub before placing them in the smoker.
How to check the internal temperature of the chicken wings: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken wings reaches 165 degrees F.
How to brush the wings with BBQ sauce: Brush the smoked chicken wings with BBQ sauce before serving.
How to serve the chicken wings: Serve the smoked chicken wings warm and enjoy!
How To Make Smoked Chicken Wings
Make appetizers extra flavorful with our easy-to-follow smoked chicken wings recipe! It’s loaded with a tasteful barbecue sauce for a mouthwatering treat.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3lbschicken wings,party style
- 3tbspBBQ spice rub
- 1cupBBQ sauce
Instructions
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Preheat the smoker to 250 degrees F.
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Load the smoker with apple wood, cherry wood or hickory chips.
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Coat the chicken wings with the spice rub, then place them in the smoker.
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Cook for 2 hours, refilling wood as needed, or until the internal temperature of the chicken wings registers 165 degrees F with a thermometer.
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Transfer the chicken wings to a sheet pan.
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Brush the wings with the BBQ sauce.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- Try out our recipe for BBQ spice rub with these wings!
- For crispy skin, preheat the broiler then place the sheet pan of wings under the broiler to cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 515.17kcal
- Fat: 30.15g
- Saturated Fat: 9.23g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 14.16g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.55g
- Carbohydrates: 19.43g
- Fiber: 0.43g
- Sugar: 15.84g
- Protein: 40.13g
- Cholesterol: 251.74mg
- Sodium: 680.05mg
- Calcium: 40.68mg
- Potassium: 534.70mg
- Iron: 1.35mg
- Vitamin A: 25.65µg
- Vitamin C: 0.29mg
Essential Technique for Smoky Chicken Wings Success
To ensure your chicken wings are full of flavor, it's important to give them time to marinate. After coating them with the bbq spice rub, let them sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight if possible. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, when smoking the wings, try not to open the smoker too often. Each time you open it, you let out heat and smoke, both of which contribute to the cooking and flavoring of the wings.
Time-Saving Tips for Smoky Chicken Wings Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken wings the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a smoker with a built-in thermometer: This will help you monitor the temperature without having to constantly check it.
Organize your workspace: Lay out all your ingredients and tools before you start to make the cooking process more efficient.
Invest in a good quality spice rub: Using a pre-made spice rub can save time and still deliver great flavor.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of wings and store the extras for quick and easy meals later.
Substitute Ingredients For Smoked Chicken Wings Recipe
chicken wings - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken wings, providing a similar texture and a great vehicle for the smoky flavor.
bbq spice rub - Substitute with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar mix: This combination can mimic the smoky and savory flavors of a BBQ spice rub, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade honey chipotle sauce: This homemade sauce can provide a smoky, sweet, and spicy flavor profile, similar to traditional BBQ sauce, but with a unique twist.
Presentation Ideas for Smoky Chicken Wings
Elevate the plating: Arrange the smoky chicken wings in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and the presentation is visually striking.
Incorporate vibrant garnishes: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with microgreens, edible flowers, or finely chopped herbs to enhance the overall visual appeal.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the smoky chicken wings on sophisticated serving platters or slate boards to add a touch of refinement to the dish.
Consider the use of smoke cloches: For a dramatic presentation, serve the smoky chicken wings under a smoke cloche to infuse the dish with a tantalizing smoky aroma when unveiled at the table.
Incorporate artistic sauce drizzles: Use a squeeze bottle to create elegant and artistic bbq sauce drizzles on the plate, adding a touch of finesse to the presentation.
Balance the plate: Ensure a harmonious balance of colors, textures, and shapes on the plate, creating a visually appealing and well-composed dish that showcases the smoky chicken wings.
Add a touch of luxury: Consider incorporating a sprinkle of edible gold leaf or truffle shavings as a luxurious finishing touch to elevate the dish to a Michelin-star standard.
Essential Tools for Making Smoky Chicken Wings
- Smoker: A cooking appliance used for smoking meat and other foods, typically using wood chips to impart a smoky flavor.
- Wood chips: Small pieces of wood used in a smoker to create smoke and add flavor to the food being cooked.
- Thermometer: A tool used to measure the internal temperature of the chicken wings to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
- Sheet pan: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking or roasting the chicken wings in the oven.
- Basting brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used to apply the BBQ sauce to the chicken wings.
Storing and Freezing Smoky Chicken Wings
- Allow the smoky chicken wings to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, place the cooled wings in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the wings:
- Arrange the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the wings are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen wings to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- To reheat frozen smoky chicken wings:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the frozen wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the wings are heated through and the skin is crispy.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the wings in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- If desired, brush the reheated wings with additional BBQ sauce before serving for extra flavor and moisture.
How To Reheat Leftover Smoky Chicken Wings
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover smoky chicken wings on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the wings are heated through and the skin is crispy. This method is great for retaining the smoky flavor and ensuring the wings don't dry out.
For a quicker option, use your microwave. Place the wings on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they're heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the wings to become rubbery. To help maintain the crispy skin, place the wings under the broiler for a minute or two after microwaving.
If you have an air fryer, this is an excellent way to reheat your smoky chicken wings. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the wings in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wings are crispy and heated through. This method is quick and helps maintain the crispy texture of the skin.
For a stovetop method, heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan, then place the wings in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the wings are heated through and the skin is crispy. This method is great for adding a little extra flavor to your reheated wings.
If you have a grill, you can use it to reheat your smoky chicken wings. Preheat the grill to medium heat and place the wings on the grates. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the wings are heated through and the skin is crispy. This method is perfect for maintaining the smoky flavor and adding a little extra char to the wings.
Interesting Fact About Smoky Chicken Wings
Smoky chicken wings are a popular dish in the southern United States. They are often served as an appetizer or main course and are a favorite at barbecues and tailgate parties.
Is Making Smoky Chicken Wings at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this smoky chicken wings recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients, particularly the chicken wings and the wood chips for smoking. While chicken wings are generally affordable, the use of wood chips and the long smoking time may increase the overall cost. However, the flavor and satisfaction derived from this dish could justify the expense. On a scale of 1-10, the overall verdict for cost-effectiveness would be around 6-7. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, factoring in the chicken wings, spices, and wood chips.
Are Smoky Chicken Wings Healthy or Unhealthy?
The smoky chicken wings recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side. Here's why:
- Chicken wings are generally high in fat, particularly saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- The recipe calls for a generous amount of BBQ sauce, which often contains added sugars and sodium, further increasing the calorie and salt content of the dish.
- Smoking the wings for an extended period may lead to the formation of harmful compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been linked to cancer.
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on flavor:
- Opt for skinless chicken wings to reduce the overall fat content.
- Create a homemade BBQ sauce using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and control the amount of added salt.
- Marinate the wings in a mixture of spices, herbs, and citrus juices to infuse flavor without relying heavily on the BBQ sauce.
- Partially cook the wings in the oven before finishing them on the smoker to reduce the smoking time and minimize the formation of harmful compounds.
- Serve the wings with a side of fresh, crisp vegetables to add nutrients and balance out the meal.
- Use a leaner cut of chicken, such as chicken breasts, and slice them into strips for a healthier alternative to wings.
Editor's Opinion on Smoky Chicken Wings
The smoky chicken wings recipe is a delightful combination of tender, flavorful chicken wings with a perfect balance of smokiness and barbecue sweetness. The use of a BBQ spice rub adds depth of flavor, while the slow smoking process infuses the wings with a rich, smoky aroma. The finishing touch of brushing the wings with BBQ sauce adds a sticky, finger-licking glaze that enhances the overall taste experience. This recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a satisfying meal on its own.
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Why trust this Smoked Chicken Wings Recipe:
This smoky chicken wings recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The bbq spice rub infuses the wings with rich, smoky flavors, while the slow smoking process ensures tender, juicy meat. The use of apple wood, cherry wood, or hickory chips adds an authentic smokiness. The finishing touch of bbq sauce provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. With the combination of quality ingredients and precise cooking instructions, these wings are sure to impress. Trust this recipe for a finger-licking, flavorful experience.
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