Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dish that’s finger-lickin’ good, you’ve found it. These Sweet and Tangy Smoked Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and a hint of tanginess. Whether it’s a game day, BBQ, or just a casual family dinner, these wings are sure to be a hit. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Perfect blend of flavors with a sweet and tangy finish.
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients but maximum taste.
- Great for feeding a crowd at any gathering or party.
- Versatile enough to pair with various side dishes.
- Smoked to perfection for a mouth-watering aroma.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken wings
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (about 107°C). Pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels, then place them in a large bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Marinate the Wings
Pour the marinade over the chicken wings, ensuring each wing is well-coated. Let the wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Smoke the Wings
Place the marinated wings on the smoker racks, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Smoke them for about 2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C).
Notes
- For extra crispiness, finish the wings on a hot grill for a few minutes. Learn more about grilling techniques.
- If you don’t have a smoker, use a grill with a smoker box attachment.
- Adjust the amount of smoked paprika for desired smokiness.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add 1 tablespoon of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Honey Glazed: Mix in 2 tablespoons of honey for a sweeter finish.
- Lemon Pepper: Add lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper for a refreshing twist.
Required Equipment
- Smoker or grill with smoker box
- Mixing bowls
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
Storage Instructions
Store leftover 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
These wings pair wonderfully with a side of creamy coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese.
Pro Tips
- Use a mix of wood chips like hickory and apple for a unique smoke flavor. Explore wood chip varieties.
- Marinate the wings overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- Ensure even cooking by flipping the wings halfway through the smoking process.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen wings?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating.
Q: How do I know when the wings are done?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (73°C).
Q: Can I bake these instead of smoking?
A: Absolutely! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.