How to Smoke Chicken Wings on a Pellet Grill

If you’re a fan of smoky, tender chicken wings, then smoking them on a pellet grill is the way to go. The pellet grill combines the convenience of a charcoal grill with the ease of a gas grill, making it an excellent choice for smoking chicken wings. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to smoke chicken wings on a pellet grill, from selecting the right equipment to perfecting the technique.

Choosing the Right Pellet Grill

Before you start smoking chicken wings, it’s essential to have the right equipment. A pellet grill is a versatile appliance that can handle smoking, grilling, and baking. When choosing a pellet grill, consider factors such as size, cooking capacity, and features like a built-in thermometer and temperature control. Some popular pellet grill brands include Traeger, Pit Boss, and Green Mountain Grills.

Preparation of Chicken Wings

Once you have your pellet grill ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken wings. Start by removing the tips of the wings and discarding them. Rinse the wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. You can season the wings with your favorite spices and rub them in thoroughly. Some popular wing rubs include a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

Setting Up the Pellet Grill

To smoke chicken wings on a pellet grill, preheat the grill to 225°F (107°C). This temperature is ideal for smoking, as it allows the chicken wings to cook slowly and absorb the smoky flavor. Once the grill is preheated, add a small amount of wood chips to the firebox. Applewood, cherry, or hickory chips are great choices for smoking chicken wings.

Placing the Chicken Wings on the Grill

Place the seasoned chicken wings on the grill grates, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can prevent the wings from smoking evenly and may cause them to steam instead of smoke. If you have a smoker box, you can place it directly on the grill grates to add more smoke.

Smoking the Chicken Wings

Cover the grill and let the chicken wings smoke for about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the wings and your desired level of doneness. The internal temperature of the chicken wings should reach 160°F (71°C) before removing them from the grill. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Resting and Serving

Once the chicken wings are done smoking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the wings more tender. Serve the smoked chicken wings with your favorite dipping sauce, such as BBQ sauce, ranch, or honey mustard.

In conclusion, smoking chicken wings on a pellet grill is a delicious and rewarding experience. By following these simple steps, you can create mouthwatering, smoky chicken wings that are perfect for any occasion. Happy smoking!