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
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F – 400°F).
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Wings
- Remove the wings from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the grill.
- Grill for 18-22 minutes, flipping every 4-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Baste and Finish
- If desired, brush the wings with melted butter and hot sauce or BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling.
- Grill for an additional 1-2 minutes per side to caramelize the sauce.
- 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!