Step 1: Prepare the Wings
- Clean and Dry: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible helps the skin get crispy.
- Season: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, lemon pepper seasoning, and fresh lemon zest. Toss until the wings are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for better flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Smoker
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If your smoker has a water pan, fill it to help maintain moisture during the cooking process.
- Add Wood Chips: Add your choice of wood chips to the smoker. Hickory will impart a stronger smoke flavor, while applewood will be slightly sweeter and milder.
Step 3: Smoke the Wings
- Arrange the Wings: Place the wings on the smoker rack. Ensure they are not touching to allow the smoke to circulate evenly around each wing.
- Smoke: Close the smoker lid and smoke the wings for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Check for Doneness: Besides the internal temperature, look for a nice golden-brown color and crispy skin.
Step 4: Optional Finishing Touch
For extra crispiness, you can finish the wings on a high-heat grill for a few minutes on each side or under a broiler. This step is optional but can add a nice texture to the wings.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest: Let the wings rest for a few minutes after removing them from the smoker or grill. This helps redistribute the juices.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with additional lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to enhance the lemon flavor.
- Serve: Enjoy your garlic lemon pepper smoked wings hot, with sides and dips of your choice.
Serving Suggestions
- Dips: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- Sides: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices are great for adding a refreshing crunch.
- Beverages: Pair with cold beer, lemonade, or iced tea for a refreshing complement to the smoky and zesty flavors of the wings.
Conclusion
Garlic lemon pepper smoked wings offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to please any crowd. The key to success is in the preparation and patience during the smoking process, allowing the wings to absorb all the wonderful smoky flavors while maintaining a juicy interior. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!