Sweet and Tangy Smoked Chicken Wings Recipe

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
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 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.

Sweet and Tangy Smoked Chicken Wings

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.
Sweet and Tangy Smoked Chicken Wings

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.

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