Get ready for some tasty Crispy Traeger Wings! These smoked chicken wings are packed with flavor and get that perfect crunch. Just fire up your Traeger, and you’re on your way to wing heaven!
Honestly, there’s nothing quite like the smoky aroma filling your backyard. I love serving these with a side of dip; it just makes watching the game a whole lot better. Bonus points if you save a few for later! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh or frozen wings work. I usually opt for fresh since they cook better. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken drumsticks that can mimic the cook time.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasonings stick and promotes crispiness. Canola or avocado oil are good substitutes if you don’t have olive oil handy.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Both add great depth of flavor. If you’re out, fresh garlic and onion can work too—just about 1 clove of each, minced.
Smoking Spices: Smoked paprika gives a distinct flavor. Don’t have it? Regular paprika with a pinch of liquid smoke can make a nice substitute.
Baking Powder: This is crucial for crispiness! If you’re looking for an alternative, try cornstarch; it also helps achieve that crunch.
Barbecue Sauce: Using homemade barbecue sauce can personalize your wings. If you’re avoiding sugar, use a sugar-free version or a spicy hot sauce for a different flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Wings Are Super Crispy?
Getting wings crispy is key for a delicious bite! The secret is in the cooking process and using baking powder. Here’s what to focus on:
- Make sure to dry the wings well before seasoning; moisture leads to sogginess.
- Coat evenly with baking powder; it helps create a crunch when cooked.
- Double cook technique: Start low and slow at 225°F to infuse smoky flavor, then crank up to 400°F for crispiness.
- Flipping the wings halfway through helps them cook evenly and crisps on both sides.
Remember to let the wings rest for a few minutes post-cooking. This helps keep them juicy on the inside while you enjoy the crisp on the outside!
How to Make Crispy Traeger Wings – The BEST Smoked Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (for extra crispiness)
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for glaze)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need about 1 hour and 20-30 minutes for smoking and crisping up the wings. So, set aside approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes to get these tasty wings ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your Traeger or pellet grill to 225°F (107°C). This low temperature is perfect for getting that delicious smoky flavor infused into your wings.
2. Season the Wings:
In a large bowl, toss together the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Make sure every wing is well-coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor!
3. Smoke the Wings:
Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the grill grates. Close the lid and let them smoke for about 1 hour. The indirect heat will start to cook the wings slowly while adding that wonderful smoky taste.
4. Increase the Temperature:
After 1 hour, increase the grill temperature to 400°F (204°C). Cook the wings for an additional 20-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking, until they are crispy and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add Sauce (Optional):
If you like a little extra flavor, brush the wings with barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will give them a tasty glaze that’s hard to resist!
6. Let Them Rest:
Once they are done, remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy wings with lime wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the wings adds a bright, fresh kick that complements all the smoky flavors. Enjoy your tasty Traeger wings!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but it’s important to thaw them first. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Just make sure to pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they get crispy!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have a Traeger or Pellet Grill?
No problem! You can make these wings in a regular grill or an oven. For a grill, set it up for indirect heat at the same temperatures (225°F and then 400°F). If using an oven, place wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet and follow the same temperature settings for better airflow and crisping.
Can I Prepare the Wings in Advance?
Absolutely! You can season the wings a day ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for the best results!
How Should I Store Leftover Wings?
Place any leftover wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to get them crispy again, or heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy them again with some fresh lime juice!
