2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Wood chips (hickory, applewood, or cherry) for smoking
BBQ sauce or wing sauce (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
2. Season the Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and thyme.
Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the wings, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Smoker:
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips of your choice for a flavorful smoke.
4. Smoke the Chicken Wings:
Arrange the seasoned wings on the smoker rack in a single layer.
Smoke the wings at 225°F (107°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Optional: Crisp the Wings:
For crispy skin, increase the smoker temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 15-20 minutes, or transfer the wings to a preheated grill or oven and cook until crispy.
6. Serve:
Serve the smoked chicken wings as is or toss them in your favorite BBQ or wing sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Wood Chip Suggestions: Hickory gives a bold flavor, while applewood and cherry offer a milder, sweeter smoke.
Serving Tip: Pair with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for a classic presentation.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispy results.