Alabama Spiced Applewood Smoked Chicken Wings

Introduction

Get ready for savory, smoky perfection with these Alabama Spiced Applewood Smoked Chicken Wings. These wings are infused with bold applewood smoke flavor, seared to lock in their juices, and finished on the Arteflame flat griddle cooktop for the perfect crisp. The unique heat zones of the Arteflame grill ensure evenly cooked, delicious wings that will wow your guests.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 2 tbsp applewood smoked spice rub
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Wood chunks for smoking

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to heat up for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is ready for grilling.

Step 2: Season the chicken wings

1. In a large bowl, mix the applewood smoked spice rub, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
3. Let the wings rest for 10 minutes while the grill heats up.

Step 3: Sear the wings

1. Once the grill is hot, place the wings directly on the center grill grate for a high-heat sear.
2. Sear each wing for about 2 minutes per side to lock in juices.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the wings to the outer flat cooktop to continue cooking.
2. Add wood chunks for smoking and let the wings slowly absorb the applewood smoke.
3. Cook, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 170°F.
4. Baste the wings with melted butter and cook for another 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Remove the wings from the grill when they reach an internal temperature of 155°F, as they will continue cooking after being removed.
2. Let the wings rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• For an extra smoky flavor, add an extra wood chunk to the fire just before cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Baste with butter towards the end of cooking for richer flavor.
• For spicier wings, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.

Variations

• Alabama White Sauce Wings: Serve the wings with a classic Alabama white sauce for a tangy twist.
• Honey Bourbon Wings: Glaze the wings with honey and bourbon for a sweet-savory blend.
• Buffalo-Style Wings: Toss the grilled wings in buffalo sauce for classic heat.
• Lemon Pepper Wings: Add lemon zest and black pepper for a zesty kick.
• Garlic Parmesan Wings: Coat the wings in garlic butter and top with grated Parmesan.

Conclusion

These Alabama Spiced Applewood Smoked Chicken Wings are a must-try for any grilling enthusiast. With the Arteflame grill, you get the perfect sear and even cooking for the juiciest, most flavorful wings. Whether for game day or a backyard BBQ, these wings will leave everyone wanting more.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Smoky baked beans
• Classic potato salad
• Chilled Alabama sweet tea
• Grilled garlic bread