How to Make Smoked Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings?
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is critical if you want crispy skin. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil until evenly coated. In a separate bowl, mix the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, lemon pepper seasoning, and coarse black pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Smoker or Grill
Preheat your smoker or grill to 325°F, setting it for indirect heat. Add hickory wood chunks or chips to build a rich smoky flavor. If you’re using a charcoal grill like a Weber Kettle, push the coals to one side and place a drip pan underneath the wings on the cool side.This indirect method lets the wings cook through without burning and absorbs the smoke beautifully.
Step 3: Smoke the Chicken Wings
Place the wings on a wire rack or directly on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and smoke the wings for 45 to 55 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 175°F to 185°F — higher than you might expect, but perfect for tender, juicy wings with fully rendered fat and crispy skin.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Lemon Pepper Butter
While the wings are finishing, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, cracked black pepper, and salt.
Step 5: Toss and Finish the Wings
Once the wings are done, remove them from the smoker and immediately toss them in the warm garlic lemon pepper butter. You can either brush each wing individually or toss them all together in a large bowl.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Add celery and carrot sticks on the side for a classic pairing
- Pair with grilled corn, mac and cheese, or potato salad
- Enjoy with cold beer, bourbon lemonade, or iced tea
Pro Tips for Perfect Smoked Wings
- Always dry wings completely before seasoning
- Smoke at 325°F for perfect crispiness
- Use hickory wood for bold flavor, or oak/pecan for something milder
- Toss wings in the butter sauce immediately after cooking
- Finish over high heat for a crispy, caramelized glaze
How to Reheat Garlic Lemon Pepper Wings
- Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 10–12 minutes
- Air Fryer: 350°F for 5–6 minutes
- Grill: Reheat over direct heat for 4–5 minutes
Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the skin crispy and the flavor intact.
