These easy grilled chicken wings are perfect for summer fun! Coated in a tasty marinade, they become crispy and smoky when grilled. A classic favorite for BBQs and gatherings!
Honestly, who can resist chicken wings? I love making a big batch and watching everyone dive in. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser!
What’s great about this recipe is that it’s simple—just marinate, grill, and enjoy! They cook up quickly, making them perfect for those last-minute summer hangouts!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: The star of the dish! Try to buy fresh wings if possible. If you’re short on time, frozen wings are a good option too. You’ll just need to thaw them before marinating.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture to the wings. If you prefer, you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a great punch. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder (1 teaspoon = 1 clove of fresh garlic), but fresh has a better taste!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work too, although it won’t have the smokiness. You could also use cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Honey or Brown Sugar: This is optional but really enhances the caramelization on the wings. If you need a sugar alternative, maple syrup is a great substitute!
How Do I Get My Chicken Wings Extra Crispy on the Grill?
Achieving crispy chicken wings is all about the grilling and the marinade. First, make sure your grill is hot enough; a medium-high heat is key. The oil in the marinade helps crisp up the skin as well.
- Preheat your grill thoroughly before adding the wings to create a sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give the wings space to cook evenly.
- Turn the wings every 5-7 minutes to let them develop a crust.
- If you have time, let them rest after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping them moist inside.
Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., ranch, blue cheese, or barbecue sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Cooking on the grill takes about 20-25 minutes. Overall, you’re looking at around 1 hour or so from start to finish, with most of that time allowing the flavors to soak into the wings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, honey (if you’re using it), and lime juice. Stir everything together well to create a nice marinade that covers the wings evenly.
2. Marinate the Chicken Wings:
Add the chicken wings to the marinade in the bowl and toss them thoroughly. Make sure each wing is coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have a bit more time, letting them sit for 1-2 hours will enhance the flavor even more!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Make sure to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Wings:
Place the wings on the grill in a single layer. Grill the wings for about 20-25 minutes, turning them every 5-7 minutes. You want them to have a nice char and be cooked through, with those beautiful grill marks.
5. Check for Doneness:
To ensure the wings are ready, check the thickest part of one wing by cutting into it. The meat should be white with no pink, and the juices should run clear.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful as the juices redistribute.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, you can garnish the wings with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauce like ranch, blue cheese, or some tangy barbecue sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious smoky chicken wings at your summer gathering!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen wings, but make sure to thoroughly thaw them before marinating. The easiest way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or you can use the quick-thaw method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water for 1-2 hours.
How Long Should I Marinate the Wings?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken wings for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is ideal. If you’re really pressed for time, you can grill them right after tossing in the marinade, but they will be more flavorful if given extra time to soak.
What Can I Use Instead of Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is a good substitute, although it will lack the smoky flavor. You could also use cayenne pepper for some heat or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind it will change the overall taste slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Wings?
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the grill to regain some of that crispiness before serving again. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
