Perfectly Grilled Chicken Wings

Introduction

Grilled chicken wings are a delicious, crispy, and smoky alternative to fried wings. They’re easy to make and perfect for barbecues, game nights, or casual gatherings. With a simple marinade and the right grilling technique, you’ll get juicy, flavorful wings with crispy skin every time.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Basting (Optional):

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup hot sauce or BBQ sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Wings

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F – 400°F).
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Wings

1. Remove the wings from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid.
2. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the grill.
3. Grill for 18-22 minutes, flipping every 4-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Baste and Finish

1. If desired, brush the wings with melted butter and hot sauce or BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling.
2. Grill for an additional 1-2 minutes per side to caramelize the sauce.
3. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Crispy skin: Pat the wings dry before marinating to remove excess moisture.
• Indirect heat option: For extra juicy wings, start with indirect heat for 15 minutes, then finish over direct heat.
• Flavor variations: Experiment with marinades like teriyaki, lemon pepper, or honey garlic.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or honey mustard.
• Pair with celery and carrot sticks for a classic touch.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on a grill or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep the skin crispy.

Conclusion

With the perfect balance of crispy skin, smoky flavor, and juicy meat, these grilled chicken wings will be a hit at any gathering. Whether you like them spicy, tangy, or sweet, this recipe is a great base to customize to your taste. Enjoy!