Guide to Perfectly Grilled Chicken Wings

Guide to Perfectly Grilled Chicken Wings

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Grilled chicken wings are a favorite among barbecue lovers, offering a crispy, smoky exterior and juicy, flavorful meat inside. This recipe ensures you achieve the perfect balance of char, tenderness, and taste, making these wings an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether for game night, a summer cookout, or a casual dinner, these perfectly grilled wings will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for basting)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Wings – Rinse and pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels. This step ensures they crisp up nicely on the grill.
  2. Marinate the Wings – In a large bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne (if using), oregano, cumin, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
  3. Coat the Wings – Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
  4. Preheat the Grill – Heat your grill to medium-high, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Arrange the Wings – Place the wings on the grill in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
  6. Grill the Wings – Cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice char. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Baste with Barbecue Sauce – In the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the wings with barbecue sauce, flipping them a couple of times to caramelize the sauce and create a sticky, flavorful coating.
  8. Remove and Rest – Transfer the wings to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  9. Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite dips like ranch, blue cheese, or extra hot sauce.

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