Crispy Smoked Chicken Wings

Smoked Chicken Wings Recipe

The perfect chicken wing is one that is crispy and juicy. But it also needs a flavor all it’s own. That’s why you should make smoked chicken wings. This crispy smoked chicken wing recipe only requires a few simple pantry ingredients. That’s because we really want the chicken to shine. It has a unique flavor when smoked with the mesquite chips.

If you are used to grilling your chicken, you may want to step up your game and try smoked chicken. It’s easy to make on a traditional smoker or a Traeger grill. Serve with grilled asparagus or my favorite cauliflower gratin. Your family will completely enjoy this simple keto dinner.

What Will I Need to Smoke Wings?

To smoke your chicken wings you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Wings
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic Powder

You will also need the following supplies to properly smoke your chicken wings:

• Tongs
• Smoker or Traeger
• Mesquite Chips
• Meat Thermometer
• Water

How to Smoke Wings on a Traeger

To cook the wings on a Traeger grill, start by placing the wings on the grate of a Traeger and turn the knob to smoke. Smoke for 60 to 90 minutes. Remove from the grill and set aside. Increase grill temperature to 450°F with the lid closed. Once the grill is preheated, place the wings back on the grill and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side.

Storage

Any leftover chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, just heat in the oven to keep the skin nice and crispy. I recommend cooking them for about 15 minutes at 350 degrees.

Wood Options for the Smoker

In this recipe for smoked chicken wings, we used mesquite chips. You don’t have to use this type of wood. Try experimenting with different kinds of wood. Each variety lends a unique flavor to whatever it is that you are smoking. For this recipe, we particularly enjoy mesquite because it lends a big, bold flavor to the meat.

Other wood chip flavors you can try are pecan, cherry and apple. Hickory is a hard wood. It yields a sweet and strong taste since it burns hot and slow. Hickory gives the chicken wings a bacon like flavor.

Crispy Chicken Tips

To achieve juicy and crispy chicken wings, I have a couple of tips for you.

• Low and slow is the best way to cook when using a smoker, it really allows the flavor of the smoke to penetrate the meat.
• Always make sure to check the steam pot and fill with water as needed. It is important to maintain a high moisture level within the smoker.
• If you want an extra crispy skin on the chicken, increase the temperature in the smoker to 400 degrees for the last 20-30 minutes.