If you’re looking to elevate your next backyard barbecue, smoked chicken wings are a game-changer. These wings offer a perfect blend of smoky flavor and crispy texture that is sure to impress your guests. Plus, smoking them ensures they stay juicy and tender inside, making them a crowd-pleaser every time.

Smoked Chicken Wings

One of the best things about smoked chicken wings is how easy they are to prepare. With just a simple spice rub and a few hours in the smoker, you can create a dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of cumin, paprika, garlic, and other spices creates a delicious crust on the wings that perfectly complements the smoky taste. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof.

These smoked chicken wings are versatile enough to serve at any occasion, from game-day parties to casual family dinners. You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces or even toss them in your favorite wing sauce for an extra kick. The best part? They’re a healthier alternative to fried wings, as smoking doesn’t require any additional fats or oils. So fire up your smoker and get ready to enjoy some of the best wings you’ve ever tasted!

Smoked chicken wings are a family favorite in our home, they rate right up there with our Air Fryer Crispy chicken wings and our Ninja Foodi Grill Crispy Chicken wings. They will soon be a favorite in your house too!

What You Will Love About This Recipe

What people will love about this smoked chicken wings recipe is its combination of incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The spice rub, featuring ingredients like cumin, paprika, and garlic, creates a savory and slightly sweet crust that enhances the smoky essence of the wings. The smoking process ensures the wings remain juicy and tender on the inside while achieving a delightful crispy texture on the outside.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a game-day party, or simply enjoying a casual family dinner, these smoked chicken wings are guaranteed to be a hit. You can customize the wings with your favorite dipping sauces or wing sauces, making them adaptable to everyone’s tastes.

Moreover, smoking the wings is a healthier alternative to frying, as it doesn’t require any added fats or oils. This makes them a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy. The straightforward preparation and foolproof method also make this recipe accessible, even for those new to smoking meats. The result is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Serve alongside your jalapeno popper dip and loaded fries!

Ingredients:

1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
1 Tablespoon Granulated Garlic
1 Teaspoon Paprika, or Smoked Paprika
1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
1 Teaspoon Chili Powder
½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
4 Pounds Party Chicken Wings (Bone-in)

How to Make Smoked Chicken WIngs

In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, onion powder, granulated garlic, paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, black pepper, and brown sugar.

Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and toss with the vegetable oil to coat.

Add the seasoning blend to the chicken wings and mix well until the wings are evenly coated in the seasoning.

Preheat your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions to 225°F (107°C).
Once preheated, palace the seasoned chicken wings on the smoker grates, making sure they are not touching.

Smoke the wings for 2-3 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the wings from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Use Fresh, High-Quality Chicken Wings: The quality of your chicken wings makes a significant difference in the final taste and texture. Opt for fresh, preferably organic wings for the best results.
Pat the Wings Dry: Before applying the rub, ensure the chicken wings are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a crispier skin.
Even Seasoning: Make sure the wings are evenly coated with the seasoning blend. You can do this by tossing them in a large bowl or using a plastic bag to shake them with the seasoning mix.
Preheat the Smoker: Always preheat your smoker to the desired temperature before adding the wings. This ensures consistent cooking and helps achieve that perfect smoky flavor.
Monitor the Temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the wings. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are cooked through and safe to eat.
Add Wood Chips for Extra Flavor: Experiment with different types of wood chips, such as hickory, apple, or cherry, to add unique smoky flavors to your wings. Soak the chips in water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker.
Don’t Overcrowd the Smoker: Arrange the wings on the smoker grates with enough space between them to allow the smoke to circulate evenly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Rest Before Serving: Let the wings rest for about 10 minutes after removing them from the smoker. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making them more flavorful and tender.

FAQs about cheesecloth

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to thaw them completely before seasoning and smoking to ensure even cooking.

If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a charcoal or gas grill set up for indirect heat. Add soaked wood chips to a smoker box or directly on the coals to achieve a smoky flavor.

Yes, you can use boneless chicken wings, but the cooking time may be shorter. Monitor the internal temperature to ensure they are cooked through.

Store leftover smoked chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the grill to retain their crispiness.

How can I reheat my chicken wings?

Reheat your chicken wings in the oven or on the grill until they reach your desired temperature.

What can I serve with smoked chicken wings?

There are so many options to serve with chicken wings. Some of our favorites are:

Celery sticks
Carrots sticks
French fries
Ranch dressing
Bleu cheese dressing
Hot sauce
BBQ sauce
Honey mustard

Can I make chicken wings in the oven?

Yes, you can make these chicken wings in the oven.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Season your wings according to the recipe
Arrange chicken wings on the baking sheet. Spread them apart so they are not touching.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°Ç) and the skin is crispy and browned.
Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Smoked Chicken Wings

Name: Smoked Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin; 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 Tablespoon Granulated Garlic; 1 Teaspoon Paprika, or Smoked Paprika; 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 Teaspoon Chili Powder; ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar; 2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil; 4 Pounds Party Chicken Wings (Bone-in)

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Smoked chicken wings are so easy to make and elevate chicken wings to a whole new level. These wings are coated in a sweet and spicy rub then smoked to perfection. Once you try this smoky chicken wing you won’t want to make them any other way. Perfect for a meal or delicious appetizer.

Ingredients

1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
1 Tablespoon Granulated Garlic
1 Teaspoon Paprika, or Smoked Paprika
1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
1 Teaspoon Chili Powder
½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil
4 Pounds Party Chicken Wings (Bone-in)

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, onion powder, granulated garlic, paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, black pepper, and brown sugar.
Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and toss with the vegetable oil to coat.
Add the seasoning blend to the chicken wings and mix well until the wings are evenly coated in the seasoning.
Preheat your smoker according to the manufacturer's instructions to 225°F (107°C).
Once preheated, palace the seasoned chicken wings on the smoker grates, making sure they are not touching.
Smoke the wings for 2-3 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the wings from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Prep time: 15 Minutes

Cook time: 2-3 Hours

Total time: 2 Hours 15 Minutes, 3 Hours 15 Minutes

Yields: Approximately 25-30 Chicken Wings (4 Pounds)

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 792Total Fat: 59gSaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 34gCholesterol: 186mgSodium: 1061mgCarbohydrates: 27gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 39g

Melissa

I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!

Smoked Chicken Wings