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Bourbon BBQ Smoked Chicken Wings

Irresistibly Juicy Bourbon BBQ Smoked Chicken Wings

Delicious Bourbon BBQ Smoked Chicken Wings that bring a smoky, sweet flavor, perfect for gatherings and gluten-free diets.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Optional Caramelization Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4 wings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Wings
  • 2 pounds Chicken Wings Fresh or thawed frozen wings yield the best flavor and texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; no substitutions necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground provides the best spice profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic is a viable substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Complements the flavor mix; no direct swaps needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Delivers a distinctive smokiness; regular paprika can be used for less intensity.
For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce
  • 1 cup Bourbon Infuses sweetness and complexity into the sauce; whiskey can work in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Barbecue Sauce Acts as the sauce base; opt for gluten-free if required.
  • ¼ cup Honey Balances sweetness and improves glaze consistency; maple syrup is a tasty alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Adds an umami kick; vegan versions or soy sauce are also options.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Introduces acidity to brighten flavors; lemon juice can substitute effectively.

Equipment

  • Smoker
  • Saucepan
  • mixing bowl
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Preheat your smoker to a steady 225°F (or prepare your grill for indirect heat).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to create your spice blend. Toss the chicken wings in this mixture until coated.
  3. Lay the seasoned chicken wings on the smoker rack, spaced apart for optimal smoke circulation. Smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours until they reach 165°F.
  4. In a saucepan, mix together bourbon, barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Remove the wings from the smoker and toss them in the thickened bourbon BBQ sauce until well coated.
  6. Return the glazed wings to the smoker for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize.
  7. Carefully remove the wings from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 4wingsCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure wings are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. For crispier skin, finish on a hot grill after saucing.

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