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The first bite of these Smoked Dill Pickle Wings is pure bliss, transporting me back to sunny barbecues with friends and family. The combination of tender chicken wings marinated in tangy dill pickle brine and kissed with smoky flavor creates an explosion of taste that’s simply irresistible. Whenever I’m in charge of appetizers for a gathering, these wings never fail to steal the show.

What’s even better? They’re surprisingly easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can turn ordinary wings into a smoky, tangy delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s for a game night or a casual summer cookout, these wings are sure to be the star of your table. Let’s dive into this recipe and elevate your wing game!

Why Love Smoked Dill Pickle Wings?

Simplicity at its Finest: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze for anyone, regardless of cooking skill.
Tangy Flavor Explosion: The dill pickle brine infuses the wings with a delightful tang that perfectly complements the smokiness.
Crispy, Juicy Perfection: Achieve wings that are irresistibly crispy on the outside and succulently juicy on the inside.
Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Perfect for parties or game days, these wings are sure to impress guests and keep them coming back for more!
Versatile Twist Options: Try different brines or spice mixes to customize flavors and please varied palates!

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to craft these irresistible wings!

For the Wings

Chicken Wings – The star of the dish providing protein and texture.
Dill Pickle Juice/Brine – Imparts a tangy, sour flavor to the wings.

For the Seasoning

Dried Dill – Enhances the dill flavor; fresh dill can be substituted for a more vibrant taste.
Granulated Garlic – Adds depth of flavor; garlic powder can be a substitute.
Black Pepper – Provides a hint of heat; cayenne can substitute for a spicier kick.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; sea salt can be an alternative.

These ingredients come together to create delicious Smoked Dill Pickle Wings that are sure to leave a lasting impression!

How to Make Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Combine the chicken wings and dill pickle brine in a non-reactive bowl. Marinate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
Remove the wings from the marinade, discarding the brine. Pat the wings dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin during cooking.
Mix dried dill, black pepper, granulated garlic, and kosher salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the wings and toss gently to coat them evenly for a flavor-packed bite.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Place the wings in the smoker and smoke them for about 60 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Increase the smoker temperature to 450°F. Crisp the wings for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a beautiful golden hue and are perfectly crunchy.
Serve these smoky delights with a side of ranch dip for an irresistible flavor contrast that everyone will love.

Optional: Garnish with fresh dill for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Marination Time Matters: Allow the wings to marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight yields even deeper flavor for your smoked dill pickle wings.
Dry for Crispiness: Pat the wings dry thoroughly after marinating. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy skin everyone loves.
Monitor Your Smoke: Keep the smoker lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent heat, ensuring your wings are evenly cooked and flavorful.
High Heat Finish: Don’t skip the final crisping step at 450°F. This is key to getting that irresistible golden crust that makes these wings sing!
Temperature Check: Use a digital meat thermometer to check that your wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and yummy eating!

How to Store and Freeze Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Room Temperature: Leftover wings should not be left out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the wings moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze smoked dill pickle wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw wings in the fridge overnight. Reheat them on a low grill setting or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they retain their delicious crispy texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Smoked Dill Pickle Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken wings in the dill pickle brine up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to Infuse deeply. After marinating, remove the wings and pat them dry, then follow the seasoning steps to ensure they remain crispy when cooked. If you want to go a step further, you can fully cook the wings and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the smoker at 450°F for a few minutes until crispy. This way, you’ll have delicious, smoky wings ready for any gathering with minimal effort!

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these wings with these delightful twists!

Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the marinade for a zesty kick that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
Herb Infusion: Swap in fresh rosemary or thyme instead of dill for a fragrant twist that adds depth of flavor.
Crispy Coating: For a crunchy texture, coating the wings in crushed cornflakes before smoking makes them extra crispy. This adds a fun crunch that kids and adults alike will love.
Jalapeño Brine: Use jalapeño brine instead of dill pickle juice for a spicy, tangy profile that’s perfect for heat-lovers.
Maple Glaze: Brush a bit of maple syrup on the wings during the last smoky minutes for a sweet contrast to the tanginess. The caramelization brings a delightful sweetness that complements the savory perfectly.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the seasoning mix for a bright, refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the wings.
Barbecue Fusion: Toss the smoked wings in your favorite barbecue sauce before serving for a smoky barbecue flavor that is sure to please any crowd.
Tandoori Style: Marinate the wings in a mix of yogurt and tandoori spices for an Indian-inspired twist that adds warmth and complexity. This unique flavor profile introduces an adventurous taste that impresses even the pickiest eaters.

What to Serve with Smoked Dill Pickle Wings?

Bringing these smoky, tangy wings to your table opens up a world of delightful pairings that will elevate your gathering.

Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy crunch of coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the savory wings, adding texture to every bite and refreshing your palate.
Potato Salad: A classic side, creamy potato salad offers a rich, comforting counterpoint to the smoky flavors of the wings, making every bite a nostalgic treat.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness from the grilled corn pairs perfectly with the tangy and smoky notes, creating a balanced and satisfying flavor experience.
Crispy French Fries: Golden, crispy fries provide a delightful crunch to accompany the wings, and they’re perfect for dipping into ranch sauce!
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the wings, bringing freshness to your meal.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled, refreshing drink is a must! Both lemonade and iced tea offer a crisp, citrusy finish that complements the wing’s tasty flavor.
Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers add a creamy and tangy element that pairs splendidly with the intense flavors of the wings, making them a delicious option for your spread.

Enjoy your Smoked Dill Pickle Wings with these delightful sides for a meal bursting with flavor and variety!

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dill pickle juice for my wings?
Absolutely! Opt for a high-quality dill pickle juice that’s flavorful. Look for one that has a bright, tangy aroma with visible spices floating in it. If the juice appears cloudy or has dark spots all over, it may be past its prime.

How should I store leftover smoked dill pickle wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and juicy! To reheat, simply place them on a grill at a low setting until warmed through. This helps them retain that crispy exterior you love!

Can I freeze smoked dill pickle wings?
Certainly! To freeze smoked dill pickle wings, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the wings to a freezer-safe zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the wings in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if my wings aren’t crispy after smoking?
Very! If your wings aren’t crispy, it could be due to not drying them well enough after marinating. Ensure they’re patted completely dry before seasoning. Additionally, don’t skip the high-heat step at the end. This is crucial for that coveted crunch. If you still find them lacking crispness, I recommend briefly broiling them in the oven for a couple of minutes.

Are there any dietary considerations for smoked dill pickle wings?
Yes! While chicken and dill are generally safe for most diets, be sure to check for any allergies related to specific spices or seasonings used. If you’re cooking for guests, feel free to ask about any dietary restrictions. Additionally, dogs love the taste of chicken, but avoid sharing wings that have seasoning or brine, as it can be harmful to them.