When it comes to finger foods that please just about everyone, grilled chicken wings steal the show. They’re smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a staple for backyard cookouts, game day gatherings, or even a casual weeknight dinner. Not only are they quick to prepare, but you can also customize them with endless marinades, rubs, and sauces to match your taste. If you’re ready to elevate your grilling game, follow this simple recipe to whip up a plateful of mouthwatering grilled chicken wings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these simple ingredients:
For the Wings:
- 2 pounds of chicken wings (whole or split into drumettes and flats)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Sauce (optional but delicious):
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken Wings
- Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve that golden, crispy skin.
- Place the wings in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents the wings from sticking to the grill.
- Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper over the wings. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
- Fire up your grill and set it to medium heat (about 350–375°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side to create a two-zone cooking area. For a gas grill, simply turn on half of the burners.
- Oil the grill grates to keep the chicken from sticking. A quick swipe with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil does the trick.
Step 3: Grill the Wings
- Place the seasoned wings on the grill, spreading them out evenly. If you’re using a two-zone grill, start them on the cooler side.
- Close the lid and cook the wings for about 20–25 minutes, turning them every 5–7 minutes. This helps them cook evenly and prevents charring.
- To finish, move the wings to the hotter side of the grill and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes per side to get that beautiful char and crisp skin. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Optional Sauce Glaze
- While the wings are cooking, combine honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Once your wings are fully cooked, brush them with the sauce for a sticky, flavorful finish. You can do this during the last few minutes on the grill or toss them in the sauce after removing them.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Wings
- Dry those wings: Moisture on the surface of the wings will prevent the skin from becoming crisp, so don’t skip the pat-dry step.
- Two-zone grilling: This method ensures the wings cook through without burning. Use the cooler side for slow cooking and the hot side for that perfect char.
- Marinate for more flavor: If you have extra time, toss the wings in the seasoning and olive oil mixture a few hours before grilling.
- Don’t skip the thermometer: Undercooked chicken is unsafe, and overcooked wings can be dry, so aim for that 165°F sweet spot.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled chicken wings are incredibly versatile and pair well with all kinds of sides and dips. Serve them alongside fresh celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also round out the meal with crispy coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, or a refreshing cucumber salad. And of course, they’re fantastic with a cold beer or a zesty homemade lemonade.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these grilled chicken wings are guaranteed to become a hit. The balance of smoky, crispy skin and juicy meat makes them unforgettable. Get your grill ready and dig in!
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