Garlic Lemon pepper Smoked wings

Garlic Lemon Pepper Smoked Wings are a delightful twist on classic smoked wings, combining the zesty flavors of garlic and lemon with the savory taste of pepper. Here’s how you can make them:

Ingredients:

• 2-3 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and wingettes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color)
• Lemon slices and fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Wings:

1. Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Place the wings in a large bowl.

2. Make the Marinade:

1. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and paprika (if using). Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken wings and toss until the wings are evenly coated. Make sure all wings are well-covered with the marinade.

3. Marinate the Wings:

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the wings and marinade to a large resealable plastic bag.
2. Marinate the wings in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and infuse into the wings.

4. Prepare the Smoker:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use wood chips or chunks of your choice for smoking. Apple, hickory, or oak wood works well with chicken.
2. If using a charcoal smoker, maintain a steady temperature by adjusting the airflow and adding more charcoal and wood chunks as needed.

5. Smoke the Wings:

1. Remove the wings from the marinade and shake off any excess marinade.
2. Arrange the wings on the smoker racks, making sure there is some space between each wing for even smoking.
3. Close the smoker lid and let the wings smoke for 2-2.5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The wings should have a nice golden color and be cooked through.

6. Serve:

1. Once the wings are smoked to perfection, remove them from the smoker and transfer them to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Serve the Garlic Lemon Pepper Smoked Wings hot as an appetizer or main dish, along with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of fresh vegetables.

Enjoy the delicious flavors of these Garlic Lemon Pepper Smoked Wings! They make a fantastic addition to any barbecue or gathering.