Who doesn’t love the satisfying crunch and succulent flavor of chicken wings? They’re a quintessential crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, backyard barbecues, or any casual gathering. While classic buffalo wings have their charm, sometimes you crave something truly extraordinary – a dish that stands out from the ordinary. Get ready to elevate your wing game with these incredibly delicious, sweet, and spicy Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings! Crafted on a Traeger pellet grill smoker, these wings are infused with an irresistible smoky depth and coated in a vibrant, balanced sauce that will make them the undisputed star of your next event. Prepare for rave reviews and empty platters!
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My culinary journey with wings took a delicious turn after living in Texas for over two decades. It was there that I truly fell in love with the art of smoked wings. The unique tenderness and rich flavor profile achieved through low-and-slow smoking captivated me. When my family and I moved further north, away from the abundance of BBQ joints on every corner, it became clear: it was time to invest in our own backyard smoker. This decision opened up a world of possibilities, allowing me to recreate all my favorite smoked meats, including those incredible smoked chicken wings that had become a staple.
Making smoked wings at home is surprisingly simple, and what makes them truly special is their versatility. They act as a perfect canvas, ready to absorb and enhance any flavors you choose to impart. Among my many experiments, I’ve developed a particular fondness for sweet and spicy combinations, and these Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings stand out as a shining example. This recipe isn’t just about cooking wings; it’s about creating a memorable culinary experience.
The marriage of chipotle and peach is nothing short of culinary brilliance. The vibrant sweetness of ripe peaches provides a delightful contrast to the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, creating a flavor symphony that dances on your palate. The natural smokiness inherent in chipotle peppers, especially when used in adobo sauce, is amplified beautifully by the wood-fired flavor from the smoker, resulting in a depth of taste that traditional wings simply can’t achieve. This is a flavor pairing that will have your guests asking for the recipe and reaching for seconds.
If you’re ready to tantalize your taste buds with wings that are sweet, spicy, and perfectly smoky, then it’s time to dive into these Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings. Just be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand – these saucy, finger-licking good wings are impossible to resist!
What You’ll Love About Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings
- **Unforgettable Smoky Flavor:** The Traeger pellet grill smoker plays a crucial role in transforming ordinary chicken wings into something extraordinary. By slowly smoking the wings, they absorb a deep, complex wood-fired flavor that can’t be replicated in an oven or fryer. This smoky essence becomes the backbone of the dish, creating an authentic BBQ experience in every bite.
- **Dynamic Peach-Chipotle Sauce:** This isn’t just any wing sauce. The homemade peach-chipotle glaze delivers a unique and incredibly mouthwatering twist. The natural sweetness of the peach jam is perfectly complemented by the robust, smoky heat of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This innovative combination provides a sophisticated flavor profile that will surprise and delight your taste buds, moving far beyond the typical wing experience.
- **Perfectly Balanced Sweet and Spicy Profile:** Achieving the ideal balance between sweetness and heat is an art, and this recipe masters it. The fruity notes of peach jam provide a refreshing counterpoint to the subtle kick of chipotle, ensuring that neither flavor overpowers the other. This harmonious blend makes these wings appealing to a wide range of palates, from those who prefer a mild warmth to serious spice enthusiasts who can simply add an extra chipotle.
- **Versatile for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue, a lively game day party, a family dinner, or even an upscale gathering, these Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings are a guaranteed hit. Their gourmet flavor profile combined with their approachable, finger-food format makes them suitable for virtually any event, ensuring your guests will be impressed by your culinary prowess.
- **Surprisingly Easy to Make:** Despite their impressive flavor, these smoked wings are remarkably straightforward to prepare. The Traeger pellet grill does most of the heavy lifting, maintaining consistent temperatures for perfect smoking. The sauce comes together quickly in a blender, making this a fuss-free recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, allowing you more time to enjoy your guests and the delicious results.
Essential Ingredients for Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings
Crafting these delectable wings requires a few key ingredients that come together to create their signature sweet, spicy, and smoky flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips for selection:
- Chicken Wings: Start with fresh, high-quality chicken wings. For best results and easier handling, opt for wings that are already split into drumettes and flats, with the tips removed. If your wings are whole, simply separate them at the joint and discard the very tips, which tend to burn.
- Salt: A fundamental seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. Use a good quality kosher or sea salt for optimal taste.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and aromatic depth, complementing the other spices.
- Peach Jam: This is the star of our sweet element. Any good quality store-bought peach jam or preserves will work beautifully. Choose one with a robust peach flavor that isn’t overly sweet, allowing the chipotle to shine through.
- Chipotle in Adobo Sauce: These smoked and dried jalapeño peppers packed in a tangy adobo sauce are essential for the smoky heat. The chipotles themselves provide a deep, complex spice, while the adobo sauce adds a layer of rich, savory tang.
- Adobo Sauce: Don’t just use the chipotles! The liquid adobo sauce from the can is packed with flavor and helps thin the glaze while adding more smoky depth. Be sure to scoop out some of this precious liquid.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the peach jam and the richness of the chipotle. Its bright, acidic notes cut through the heavier flavors, adding a tangy finish that brightens the entire sauce and makes it incredibly addictive.
How to Prepare Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these sensational wings is a straightforward process, combining the magic of slow smoking with a quick finish for crispy skin and a vibrant, homemade sauce. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
- Prepare Your Smoker: Begin by preheating your Traeger pellet grill smoker to a low temperature of 180°F (approximately 82°C). This low heat is essential for infusing the chicken with maximum smoky flavor without overcooking it prematurely. Allow the grill to reach the target temperature and stabilize before adding the wings.
- Smoke the Wings: Carefully arrange your seasoned chicken wings directly on the grill grates, ensuring there’s ample space between each wing for even smoke penetration. Close the lid and smoke the wings for about 60 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a reliable digital thermometer. This stage is all about building that foundational smoky flavor and tenderizing the meat.
- Remove and Increase Heat: Once the wings have reached 165°F, remove them from the smoker and set them aside. While they rest, significantly increase the heat of your Traeger pellet grill to 450°F (232°C). This higher temperature is critical for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
- Crisp the Wings: Return the smoked wings to the now super-hot grill. Cook them for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the skin is beautifully golden brown and delightfully crispy. Watch them carefully to prevent burning, as the sugars in the peach jam can caramelize quickly.
- Craft the Peach-Chipotle Sauce: While the wings are crisping, or even beforehand, prepare your signature sauce. Combine the peach jam, whole chipotle peppers (start with one for mild heat, add two for a spicier kick), two tablespoons of the adobo sauce from the can, and apple cider vinegar in a blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust for your preferred level of sweetness, tanginess, and spice.
- Toss and Serve: In a large bowl, toss the hot, crispy wings with the freshly blended peach-chipotle sauce until each wing is thoroughly coated. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve any remaining sauce on the side for dipping. These wings are best enjoyed immediately, so dig in and savor every sweet, spicy, and smoky bite!
Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for Perfect Smoked Wings
Achieving truly exceptional smoked wings involves a few key techniques and considerations. Here are my top tips to ensure your Peach-Chipotle Wings are absolutely perfect:
- Master the Preheat: Proper preheating of your Traeger pellet grill smoker is not just a suggestion; it’s vital for optimal smokiness. Allowing the grill to come up to temperature and stabilize ensures a consistent smoke profile throughout the initial cooking phase, which is when the chicken truly absorbs that beautiful wood-fired essence. Don’t rush this step.
- The Digital Thermometer is Your Best Friend: For perfectly cooked chicken that’s both safe and tender, a reliable digital thermometer is indispensable. Eyeballing doneness can lead to dry or undercooked wings. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) during the smoking phase to ensure the meat is cooked through before the crisping step.
- Customize the Heat Level: The beauty of homemade sauces is the ability to tailor them to your preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just one chipotle pepper in adobo sauce and a tablespoon of adobo liquid. For those who crave a fiery kick, feel free to add a second chipotle, or even a dash of cayenne pepper, to achieve your desired level of heat. Always taste and adjust!
- Balance Sweetness and Tanginess: The ratio of peach jam to apple cider vinegar can significantly impact the final flavor of your glaze. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, slightly reduce the vinegar. For a tangier, brighter finish, you can add a touch more vinegar. Experiment to find your perfect balance. A good starting point is the recipe, then tweak small amounts at a time.
- Don’t Skip the Crisping Step: Many smoked wing recipes overlook this crucial detail, resulting in tender but soft-skinned wings. The final blast of high heat (450°F) is what transforms the chicken skin into that irresistible, crispy texture everyone craves. This step renders the fat, crisps the skin, and sets the glaze beautifully. It’s the secret to achieving restaurant-quality smoked wings at home.
- Consider a Drying Rack: For even crispier skin, after seasoning the wings, place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and refrigerate them uncovered for at least an hour, or even overnight. This helps to dry out the skin, which promotes maximum crispness during cooking.
Recommended Pairings & More Delicious Recipes
While these Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings are fantastic on their own, pairing them with complementary dishes can elevate your meal to a new level. Here are some suggestions for sides and other great recipes:
Choosing the Best Pellets for Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings
The type of wood pellets you choose for your Traeger pellet grill can significantly influence the final flavor profile of your smoked wings. For these Peach-Chipotle Wings, we want to complement and enhance both the fruity sweetness of the peach and the smoky depth of the chipotle.
While a general “competition blend” pellet works well in a pinch, to truly elevate these wings, consider blending specific wood flavors. A fantastic combination involves mixing hickory pellets with either apple or cherry wood pellets. Hickory provides a classic, robust smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with chicken and the earthy notes of chipotle. Apple wood pellets, on the other hand, offer a lighter, subtly sweet, and fruity smoke that perfectly harmonizes with the peach jam, adding an extra layer of complexity. Cherry wood is another excellent choice, imparting a slightly richer, sweet-fruity smoke with a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken skin. This blend will create a multi-layered smoke profile that truly makes these wings shine.
Make These Smoked Wings a Complete Meal
Transforming these irresistible wings into a well-rounded meal is easy with the right accompaniments. The vibrant flavors of the Peach-Chipotle Wings pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider these options to create a memorable feast:
- **Fresh Green Salad:** A crisp, refreshing summer salad with a light citrus vinaigrette (lemon or orange based) provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the wings. The acidity and freshness will cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- **Grilled Vegetables:** Complement the smoky wings with more grill-fired goodness. Grilled asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini skewers can add a delightful charred flavor and nutritional balance. The slight bitterness of grilled greens works wonderfully with the sweet and spicy glaze.
- **Sweet Corn:** A classic BBQ side, corn on the cob (especially roasted or grilled) brings natural sweetness that echoes the peach in the wings, while its hearty texture provides a satisfying bite.
- **Coleslaw or Potato Salad:** For a more traditional BBQ spread, a creamy coleslaw or a tangy potato salad offers cool, crunchy, or starchy elements that can cut through the spice and round out the meal.
- **Rice or Quinoa Pilaf:** A simple side of fluffy rice or a flavorful quinoa pilaf can help absorb some of the delicious sauce and provide a neutral base for the bold flavors of the wings.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Don’t worry if you have any leftovers – these Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings store and reheat beautifully, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness for days to come!
Refrigeration: For short-term storage, place cooled wings in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making them even more enjoyable the next day.
Freezing: If you’re planning to store them for longer, these wings freeze exceptionally well. Arrange cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw frozen wings in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, you have a few excellent options:
- **Traeger Pellet Grill:** For the best results and to recapture some of that smoky magic, preheat your Traeger to 350°F (175°C). Place the wings directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are warmed through and the skin has re-crisped slightly.
- **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. For extra crispiness, you can finish them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- **Air Fryer:** For quick reheating and maximum crispness, an air fryer is a fantastic choice. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket (do not overcrowd) and cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until hot and crispy.
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Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings split, tips removed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1½ cups peach jam
- 1 chipotle in adobo sauce 2 if you like it spicy
- 2 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your Traeger pellet grill smoker to 180°F.
- Smoke the wings for about 60 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F on a digital thermometer.
- Remove the wings from the smoker.
- Turn the heat up to 450°F.
- Return the wings to the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until they start to brown and crisp up.
- Blend the peach jam, chipotle, adobo sauce, and vinegar in a blender until smooth.
- Toss the wings in the sauce and serve the extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Chef Jenn’s Tips
- For optimal smokiness, make sure to preheat your Traeger pellet grill smoker properly.
- Using a digital thermometer is crucial for getting the wings to the perfect internal temperature.
- If you’re sensitive to heat, adjust the amount of chipotle and adobo sauce to your liking.
- When making the sauce, feel free to adjust the ratio of peach jam to vinegar for desired sweetness and tanginess.
- Don’t skip the final crisping step at 450°F; it adds an essential crunch to your wings.
Nutrition
A Note on Nutritional Information
Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.
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