🔥 Smoked Chicken Wings Recipe – Crispy, Juicy & Packed with Flavor 🍗
If you’re ready to take your snack game to the next level, these smoked chicken wings will do the trick. Perfectly seasoned, irresistibly smoky, and finished with a mouthwatering hot butter glaze, this recipe delivers finger-licking goodness every single time. Whether you’re hosting a game night, backyard BBQ, or just craving a protein-packed snack, this is the ultimate chicken wing recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
Why These Smoked Chicken Wings Are a Game-Changer
Unlike deep-fried wings, smoked chicken wings develop a slow-cooked tenderness and an unbeatable depth of flavor. The low-and-slow smoking process infuses every bite with wood-fired aroma, while the spice blend creates a crispy skin without excess oil. Tossed in a silky butter-hot sauce mixture, these wings are pure flavor perfection.
👨🍳 Expert Tip from Chef Bobby Flay
“The secret to getting crispy skin on smoked wings is baking powder — it changes the pH level of the chicken skin, helping it crisp beautifully while staying juicy inside. Always pat your wings completely dry before seasoning.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C).
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, mix together baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Toss the wings in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange the wings on smoker racks, leaving space for airflow.
- Smoke the wings for 2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While smoking, combine melted butter and hot sauce in a bowl.
- Once wings are cooked, toss them in the hot sauce mixture until coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
🔥 Chef Gordon Ramsay’s Safety Note
“Always use a reliable meat thermometer when smoking chicken. The internal temperature must reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. Undercooked chicken is not just unpleasant — it’s unsafe.”
Nutrition & Health Benefits
These smoked chicken wings are lower in fat than deep-fried versions and are a good source of protein. Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne to control sodium and spice levels.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Based on 4 Servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
| Fiber | 0 g |
🔥 Smoking Tips for Perfect Chicken Wings
- Choose the right wood: Applewood, hickory, or cherry wood chips enhance chicken’s flavor beautifully.
- Don’t overcrowd the smoker: Airflow is key to even cooking and crispy skin.
- Experiment with sauces: Try honey BBQ, teriyaki glaze, or garlic parmesan for variety.
💡 Health Tip from Ina Garten
“If you’re watching your sodium intake, skip pre-made hot sauces and make your own with fresh chili, vinegar, and a touch of honey for balance.”
Pairing Suggestions
These wings pair wonderfully with:
- Creamy coleslaw 🥗
- Grilled corn on the cob 🌽
- Chilled beer or sparkling lemonade 🍺🍋
FAQs About Smoked Chicken Wings
- Can I make these in an oven instead of a smoker? Yes — bake at 250°F on a wire rack for similar results, though you’ll miss the smoky flavor.
- What’s the best wood for smoking chicken? Mild fruitwoods like apple or cherry are best.
- Can I marinate the wings beforehand? Absolutely — but dry them completely before applying baking powder for crispiness.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze smoked chicken wings? Yes — freeze for up to 2 months, then reheat in the oven.
- Are these wings gluten-free? Yes, as long as your hot sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.
- Can I make them spicier? Increase cayenne pepper or add chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Do I need to flip the wings while smoking? No — but you can rotate racks halfway for even cooking.
- What’s the safest way to reheat wings? Oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes — store in the fridge and reheat before tossing with wings.
Related Recipes & Articles
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Final Verdict: If you want restaurant-quality smoked chicken wings at home, this recipe is foolproof. It’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress guests — or just yourself!
