Smoked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
I just made this simple recipe on the fly and these wings came out so good I felt compelled to record it so I dont forget how I did it. I tried to smoke the wings I use a Big Green Egg more than grill them. Therefore I used a lower temperature and cooked them for a longer time.
I just made this simple recipe on the fly and these wings came out so good I felt compelled to record it so I dont forget how I did it. I tried to smoke the wings I use a Big Green Egg more than grill them. Therefore I used a lower temperature and cooked them for a longer time.
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 192.5 mg
- Fat 40.20624999955 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 45.825 g
- Saturated Fat 11.2388349999379 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (250g)
- Sodium 182.505624999991 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 4.38261624998781 g
- Calories 557 calories
Step-by-step
- Cut and wash wings as needed. If you bought whole wings use kitchen shears to separate the leg, flat, and tip. Throw the tips away.
- Lay the wings out on wax paper or aluminum foil and spray or coat with olive oil - both sides. Sprinkle the wings with a generous amount of McCormicks Lemon & Pepper Seasoning - both sides. Dont skimp on the seasoning! Let the wings sit for a little while you prepare the grill.
- Heat grill to 300-350. This takes some patience and skill to not let the grill get searing hot. Go slow and keep the vents almost all the way closed assuming you are using a similar type smoker. Catch the temperature on the way up as opposed to trying to bring the temp back down from something too high. If you are using a regular gas grill just keep it on low and cook them slowly.
- Once the fire and heat are settled in, throw a piece of smoking wood into the smoker to create a slightly smoked flavor. I usually use fruit woods.
- Lay wings out on the grill and smoke/grill until cooked. It could be up to an hour cook time depending on how hot your fire is, and how low your grid is placed. The wings should come out slightly charred the lemon pepper seasoning helps this occur.
My Unexpectedly Delicious Smoked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Life as a busy working mom is a whirlwind of school pick-ups, work deadlines, and trying to squeeze in some semblance of a social life. Dinner, often the last thing on my mind, usually involves a frantic scramble to find something quick and easy. But sometimes, even in the midst of chaos, a little culinary magic happens. This recipe for smoked lemon pepper chicken wings is a perfect example. It started as a spur-of-the-moment decision—a craving satisfied with surprisingly delicious results. I wasn’t aiming for perfection, just a simple weeknight meal that wouldn’t leave me feeling like I’d spent half my evening slaving away in the kitchen. The result? A dish so unexpectedly flavourful, I knew I had to share it.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated marinades, no fancy techniques – just a handful of ingredients and a willingness to experiment. I typically use my trusty Big Green Egg smoker, preferring the low-and-slow approach that lends the wings an irresistible smoky flavor. But honestly, you can adapt this to any grill – gas or charcoal. The key is patience and low heat. Rushing the cooking process is a surefire way to end up with dry, overcooked wings. The slow cooking allows the lemon pepper seasoning to meld beautifully with the chicken, creating a wonderfully crispy, flavorful exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside. That perfectly charred outer layer? Oh, it’s simply heavenly!
I love the versatility of this dish. These wings are fantastic on their own, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a game-day gathering, or even a simple lunch. They also make amazing appetizers for entertaining. I find it fun to experiment with different dipping sauces. Sometimes I pair them with a classic ranch dressing, other times, I go for something a bit spicier, like a smoky chipotle mayo. The possibilities are endless! Regardless of the side dish, these wings are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re the kind of dish that evokes happy memories of relaxed evenings and good company, a welcome escape from the pressures of daily life. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the table.
So, my friends, embrace the unexpected delights that life, and cooking, can offer. Don't be afraid to experiment, to deviate from a recipe, to simply wing it (pun intended!). Sometimes, the best creations arise from a moment of spontaneity, from a craving that demands satisfaction. And this smoky lemon pepper chicken wing recipe is a perfect testament to the magic that can happen when you let your culinary instincts guide you.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Chicken Wings
- Olive Oil
- McCormick's Lemon & Pepper Seasoning
- (Optional) Smoking Wood (fruit woods recommended)
Tips for Success:
- Don't skimp on the seasoning!
- Low and slow is the key to perfectly cooked, juicy wings.
- Let the wings sit for a bit after seasoning to allow the flavors to meld.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces to personalize your experience!
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder that even the simplest things can bring unexpected joy. The taste is fantastic, the process was simple, and honestly, making dinner a success has got to be one of the greatest joys of a busy working mom. I hope you enjoy these wings as much as I do.
