Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a mouthwatering appetizer or main dish that’s sure to impress, these Sweet and Tangy Smoked Chicken Wings are just what you need. With their irresistible combination of smoky flavor and a sweet yet tangy glaze, they’re perfect for game day, family gatherings, or any casual get-together. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- These wings are packed with flavor, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky goodness.
- It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum taste.
- The smoking process makes the chicken incredibly tender and juicy.
- Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to BBQ parties.
- You can easily customize the recipe with your favorite spices.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken wings
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Directions
Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Wings
Place the chicken wings in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (about 107°C). Use your choice of wood chips, such as hickory or applewood, for added flavor.
Smoke the Wings
Remove the wings from the marinade and place them on the smoker rack. Smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Finish and Serve
For an extra caramelized finish, brush the wings with additional honey and place them under a hot grill for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade. [Source](https://www.spicesinc.com/p-45-cayenne-pepper.aspx)
- If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake the wings in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes.
- Explore various wood chip flavors to find your favorite smoking profile. [Learn more](https://www.thespruceeats.com/best-wood-for-smoking-334937).
Variations
- Spicy Variation: Add hot sauce or chili flakes for an extra spicy kick.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade.
- Asian-Inspired: Incorporate ginger and sesame oil into the marinade.
Required Equipment
- Smoker or oven
- Large resealable plastic bag
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover smoked chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a zesty lemonade or a crisp, cold beer.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to pat the wings dry before marinating to ensure the skin gets crispy. [Learn how](https://www.cooksillustrated.com/how_tos/6523-patting-meat-dry-before-cooking).
- Let the wings come to room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking for even cooking.
- Experiment with different smoke times to achieve your desired level of smokiness.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken wings? Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating.
- What is the best wood for smoking chicken? Applewood and hickory are popular choices for a balanced smoky flavor.
- Can I use this recipe for other chicken parts? Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the chicken pieces.