Smoky Red Chicken Wings: Flavor-Packed Adventure Starts Now

Ingredients for Smoky Red Chicken Wings

• 2.5 pounds (1 kg) whole chicken wings
• 4-6 tablespoons Hardcore Carnivore Red seasoning
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for sauced wings)

For the Brine

• 24 oz (700 ml) beer (e.g., Lone Star)
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 5-6 allspice berries
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns

Step-by-Step Cooking Method for Smoky Red Chicken Wings

Begin your culinary adventure by preparing the brine. This unique beer-based brine is the first step in creating wings that are juicy, flavorful, and utterly delicious.

1. Prepare the Brine: In a saucepan, combine all brine ingredients over medium heat until the salt and sugar dissolve. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. Brine the Wings: Place the wings in a ziploc bag, pour in the cooled brine, seal, and refrigerate for 4 hours—or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Smoker: Heat your smoker to 250°F (120°C). Use hickory, oak, or cherry wood for a rich, smoky taste.
4. Rinse and Dry: Remove the wings from the brine, discard the liquid, rinse under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and let them rest on a rack.
5. Season: Generously coat both sides of the wings with Hardcore Carnivore Red seasoning.
6. Smoke: Place the wings in the smoker, bone side down, and cook without flipping until the thickest part reaches 165°F (75°C).

Finishing Options

• Dry Rub Wings: Serve immediately for a crispy, smoky finish.
• Sauced Wings: Brush with BBQ sauce and smoke for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce sets.

Why Smoking Enhances Smoky Red Chicken Wings

Smoking takes smoky red chicken wings to new heights by infusing them with a deep, wood-fired flavor that grilling can’t match. The slow process locks in moisture while the Hardcore Carnivore Red seasoning adds a bold, savory punch. Hickory, oak, or cherry wood pairs perfectly with this recipe, enhancing the overall taste.

Pro Tips for Perfect Wings

Every great adventure needs a few insider tips. Here are some secrets to ensure your Smoky Red Chicken Wings are a hit:

• Wood Selection: Choose hickory for a strong, bacon-like flavor, oak for a milder smoke, or cherry for a sweet, fruity note.
• Brining Time: For the juiciest wings, let them brine overnight. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Temperature Control: Keep your smoker steady at 250°F. Fluctuations can affect the cooking time and the final texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Sodium: 780mg

Explore More BBQ Goodness

Dive deeper with our guide on best smoking techniques to master your smoker.

Learn BBQ history at The BBQ Museum.

Join the Flavor Adventure!

These smoky red chicken wings are a game-changer for any BBQ lover. Share your experience with these Smoky Red Chicken Wings. Did you try a different wood or add your own twist to the brine? Tell us in the comments below!