Introduction
These smoked chicken wings are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and bursting with smoky flavor. Easy to prepare, they’re ideal for game days, backyard gatherings, or a delicious weeknight treat.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken wings
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Optional for serving: barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dip
How to Make
Preheat Oven or Smoker: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C) for low-and-slow crisping, or prepare your smoker according to manufacturer instructions.
Prepare Wings: Pat wings dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
Season: In a small bowl, mix baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toss the wings until evenly coated.
Cook Wings:
Oven Method: Place wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake at 250°F for 30 minutes, then increase to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 40–50 minutes until crispy.
Smoker Method: Smoke wings at 225–250°F for 2–3 hours, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and skin is crispy.
Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Variations
Buffalo Wings: Toss cooked wings in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Honey BBQ: Coat wings in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce before serving.
Asian-Inspired: Glaze wings with soy sauce, honey, and ginger for an umami twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen wings?
A: Yes, thaw completely before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Can I grill these instead of smoking?
A: Absolutely — grill over indirect heat for 25–30 minutes, then finish over direct heat for crispiness.
Q: Why is baking powder used?
A: Baking powder helps the skin become extra crispy during cooking.
