Grilled chicken wings are a tasty treat that everyone loves! Juicy chicken coated in your favorite sauce gets a nice char on the grill. It’s simple and super fun to eat!
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love licking sticky fingers after a good wing feast? I like to set up a little wing station with all my sauces. It’s a party on a plate! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh or frozen wings work great here. If you’re in a pinch, check your grocery store for drumsticks, which can also be grilled similarly.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you want a different taste, avocado oil or melted butter can be good substitutes.
Spices: Garlic and onion powders add delicious depth. If you prefer fresh ingredients, feel free to use minced garlic and finely chopped onion instead. Just remember, a little goes a long way with fresh herbs!
Smoked Paprika: This spice brings a smoky flavor that’s perfect for grilling. If you’re out, regular paprika or a bit of cumin could work in a pinch, but smoked is best!
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust this to your heat preference. If spicy isn’t your thing, try using sweet paprika or even some black pepper for flavor without the heat.
Honey: This is optional but gives a nice glaze. Maple syrup or agave syrup can work well as sweet alternatives if you want to skip the honey.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken Wings?
The key to great grilled wings is all in the marination and cooking technique. You want those wings to soak up the flavors for a while. Aim for that 30-minute minimum marinating time, but if you can do it longer, even better! This ensures every bite is tasty.
- Mix the oil and spices with the chicken wings until they’re fully coated.
- Keep a close eye on the grill. Turn the wings regularly so they cook evenly and don’t burn.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; they should hit 165°F (75°C).
- If using honey, brush it on in the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Letting the wings rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy wings. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a glaze)
- Fresh parsley or celery sticks for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating, and then around 15-20 minutes for grilling. So, expect to spend about 1 hour in total if you let them marinate for the minimum time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help your chicken wings cook evenly and give them a nice char.
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well so that every wing is coated in the tasty spices.
3. Marinate:
Let the wings marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, you can let them sit in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours to really soak in all the flavors. Just remember to take them out about 15 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
4. Grill the Wings:
Place the marinated chicken wings directly on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to prevent burning. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through—check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C for safety.
5. Add a Glaze (Optional):
If you’re using honey, brush it over the wings during the last few minutes of grilling to create a sweet glaze that enhances the flavor.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh parsley or alongside crunchy celery sticks for a refreshing touch. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken wings!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but it’s important to thaw them first. The best way to thaw is by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they get crispy on the grill!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil as a substitute. Each will work similarly, but avocado oil has a nice flavor that complements the spices well!
Can I Make These Wings in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and cooked through. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy!
