These sweet and sticky honey bourbon grilled chicken wings are perfect for any gathering! The mix of honey and bourbon gives them a deliciously unique flavor that will make everyone smile.
Honestly, I can’t get enough of these wings! They’re easy to make, and the grill adds that awesome smoky taste. Perfect for game day or just a cozy night in with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings are best for grilling. If you can’t find wings, you can use drumsticks instead, although the cooking time may vary slightly.
Bourbon Whiskey: If bourbon isn’t available, consider using another whiskey like rye or a good quality beer for a different flavor profile.
Honey: While I love the sweetness of honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness that works well too.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. They give a similar salty depth to the marinade without the gluten.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch—just 1 teaspoon should do!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken Wings?
Grilling chicken wings can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get them just right every time! First, make sure your wings are well-marinated; this is key for flavor. Allow them to soak up the marinade for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight!
- Preheat your grill on medium-high heat and remember to oil the grates to keep wings from sticking.
- Grill wings for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to get an even char. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Use the reserved marinade to create a delicious glaze, enhancing the flavor as you finish grilling.
Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to have fun with this recipe! The combination of sweet and smoky flavors will surely impress.
Sweet Honey Bourbon Grilled Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours for marinating the wings. You’ll need an additional 20-25 minutes for grilling. So, overall, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 40 minutes, count the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, add the bourbon, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, salt, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), and olive oil. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. You want all those flavors to mix perfectly!
2. Marinate the Wings:
Take the chicken wings and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the wings, ensuring they’re all nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight if you want a deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). Make sure to oil the grill grates; this helps prevent the wings from sticking!
4. Prepare the Wings for Grilling:
Take the wings out of the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Don’t throw away the leftover marinade; you’ll need that to make the glaze!
5. Grill the Wings:
Place the wings on the grill and cook them for about 20-25 minutes. Keep turning them every 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and get that nice char you’re looking for. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Make the Glaze:
While the wings are grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then lower the heat to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will be your delicious glaze!
7. Brush with Glaze:
Once the wings are cooked to perfection, take them off the grill and brush them generously with the reduced bourbon honey glaze. This will add a sweet and sticky finish that is simply irresistible!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the wings immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Enjoy your sweet honey bourbon grilled chicken wings with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but make sure to fully thaw them before marinating. To do this quickly, submerge the sealed bag of wings in cold water for about 30-40 minutes or leave them in the fridge overnight.
How Long Can I Marinate the Wings?
You can marinate the chicken wings for a minimum of 2 hours to get some flavor, but for the best results, let them soak overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply!
Can I Grill These Wings Indoors?
If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can definitely cook the wings indoors using a grill pan or a broiler. Just make sure to adjust your cooking times as needed, checking that the wings reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, simply pop them in the microwave or reheat on a grill or in an oven until warmed through, ensuring they still taste delicious!
