Smoked Chicken Wings

Smoked chicken wings are a fantastic treat with a smoky flavor and crispy skin. Here’s a simple recipe for making them:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds (about 1 kg) chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Wings:

• If the wings are whole, separate them into drumettes and wingettes (flats) by cutting at the joints. Pat them dry with paper towels.

1. Season the Wings:

• In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil to coat them evenly.
• In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

1. Preheat the Smoker:

• Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you’re using a charcoal or gas grill with a smoking function, set it up for indirect heat and add wood chips (such as hickory, apple, or mesquite) according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

1. Smoke the Wings:

• Place the seasoned wings on the smoker rack, ensuring they are not crowded and have space for the smoke to circulate around them.
• Smoke the wings for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the wings are fully cooked. The skin should be slightly crispy and have a smoky flavor.

1. Optional Crisping:

• If you prefer a crispier skin, you can finish the wings on a grill or in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the skin is crispy. Just be careful not to overcook them.

1. Serve:

• Remove the wings from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing, and perhaps some celery or carrot sticks.

Enjoy your flavorful and smoky chicken wings! They make a great appetizer for parties or a tasty treat for any gathering.