These easy grilled chicken wings are perfect for summer! They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. You can toss them in your favorite sauce or enjoy them plain!
I love whipping these up for backyard cookouts! They’re super easy to make, and everyone loves them—who doesn’t enjoy finger-licking good wings? 🍗😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: You’ll need about 2 pounds of wings, split into drumettes and flats. If you can’t find wings, you could use whole legs or even thighs, just adjust the cooking time since they may take longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: This helps achieve a nice crispy skin. You can substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer. Some people even use melted butter for a richer flavor!
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add great flavor. If you like a bit of heat, try adding cayenne pepper or replacing smoked paprika with regular paprika. Onion powder can be swapped for onion salt, but remember to reduce the added salt.
BBQ Sauce: Using a favorite sauce enhances the wings after grilling. If you’re health-conscious, look for low-sugar sauces or make your own with tomatoes, vinegar, and spices.
Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish! If you’re out of fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar can add a similar tang, but not quite the same freshness.
How Do I Get My Chicken Wings Extra Crispy on the Grill?
Getting delightfully crispy chicken wings comes down to a few simple techniques. First, ensure your grill is hot enough—medium-high heat is key to crisping up the skin. Also, space the wings apart on the grill to allow air to circulate. Don’t overcrowd them!
- Start grilling on a cooler side of the grill if your grill has hot spots. This prevents burning while the inside cooks.
- Turn the wings every 5 minutes to allow even cooking and crisping.
- Do not skip the use of a meat thermometer; it ensures they’re cooked through at 165°F and helps you avoid overcooking which can make them dry.
- If you want extra crispiness, broil them for a minute or two after grilling, just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
Enjoy grilling!
Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: BBQ sauce or hot sauce for tossing after grilling
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 20-25 minutes for grilling. You’ll spend some time marinating the wings and then grilling them to perfection. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner but delicious enough for a summer gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). This is important for achieving that crispy texture we all love.
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the wings are thoroughly coated with the seasoning.
3. Grill the Wings:
Place the seasoned wings on the grill grate in a single layer. Grill them for about 20-25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and get that crispy skin you’re looking for.
4. Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the wings have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This will ensure they are safely cooked and juicy!
5. Add Some Sauce (Optional):
If you like, during the last 5 minutes of grilling, you can brush the wings with your favorite BBQ sauce or hot sauce. This will give them a nice caramelized finish.
6. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the wings with fresh lemon wedges on the side. You can also garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Dig in and enjoy your perfectly grilled summer chicken wings!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but make sure they are fully thawed before marinating and grilling. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight or submerge them in cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker option. Pat them dry before coating to avoid excess moisture.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works just fine. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want some extra kick. Other spices like chili powder or even a blend of Italian herbs can provide different flavor profiles!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Wings?
Store any leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option (but they may lose some crispiness).
Can I Make These Wings in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and cooked through. For a crispier finish, you can broil them for a couple of minutes at the end!
