Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Published:

by Sabrina

Indulge in Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings, perfect for any occasion, from casual cookouts to game day gatherings. These wings offer a delightful crunch and irresistible flavor, thanks to your choice of Old Bay seasoning, spicy hot sauce, or a buttery garlic blend. Easy to prepare and bursting with taste, they are sure to please guests and family alike!

Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-packed options: Choose between Old Bay, spicy hot sauce, or a garlic butter blend for a unique twist.
  • Perfectly crispy skin: Follow our tips for achieving that golden brown crispiness you crave.
  • Versatile serving ideas: Enjoy these wings with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor.
  • Ideal for gatherings: Whether it’s a BBQ or a game night, these wings are always a hit.
  • Quick grilling process: Cook them on the grill in just 20 minutes!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on making your Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Grill
  • Tongs
  • Large saucepan with lid
  • Basting brush (optional)
  • Baking rack (if baking)

Importance of Each Tool

  • Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and crispy texture that makes grilled chicken wings so delicious.
  • Tongs: Perfect for flipping and removing wings from the grill safely without tearing the skin.
  • Large saucepan with lid: Useful for coating wings evenly in sauce after grilling.

Ingredients

Indulge in deliciously grilled chicken wings, featuring your choice of enticing flavors, including Old Bay seasoning, spicy hot sauce, or a buttery garlic blend. These wings are perfect for grilling, offering crisp skin and mouth-watering taste!

For the Wings

  • 3 pounds chicken wings, cut into drumettes and flats (about 24 large pieces or 36 slender pieces)

For Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning
  • ½ cup Frank’s Hot Sauce

For Butter Garlic Flavor

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional for Serving

  • Celery
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing

How to Make Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare Your Grill

Before you start: Read the options for crispier skin in the recipe notes. Preheat the grill to 400℉ (medium-high heat).

Step 2: Seasoning Options

For dry-rubbed Old Bay wings:
* Sprinkle the Old Bay evenly over both sides of the wings.

For hot wings:
1. Grill as directed above; skip Old Bay if desired or combine it with hot sauce.
2. Gently heat the hot sauce in a large saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

For butter garlic wings:
1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan with a lid.
2. Stir in the garlic powder until combined. Optionally add hot sauce to taste.

Step 3: Grill The Wings

  1. Place the seasoned wings on the grill.
  2. Cook covered for 5 minutes; then flip over and cook for another 5 minutes.
  3. Repeat cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes (total of about 15-20 minutes), flipping occasionally until cooked through and skin is golden brown.

Step 4: Coat The Wings

When finished grilling:
1. Transfer them to your saucepan with sauce.
2. Put on the lid and shake until evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Serve with celery sticks and dressing of choice for dipping if desired!

Enjoy your crispy grilled chicken wings at your next gathering!

How to Serve Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Crispy grilled chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. These versatile wings can be paired with various sides and sauces to elevate your dining experience. Here are some great serving suggestions.

With Dipping Sauces

  • Ranch Dressing: A classic creamy dip that complements the spicy flavors of the wings.
  • Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who love a tangy flavor, this is a must-try with your wings.
  • Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy option that balances the spice of the wings perfectly.

Accompanied by Vegetables

  • Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, these are perfect for balancing out the rich flavors.
  • Carrot Sticks: Another crunchy option that adds a touch of sweetness to your meal.

On a Platter

  • Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with fresh greens can be a great contrast to the crispy wings.
  • Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying side that pairs well with any sauce.

With Beverages

  • Cold Beer: A classic pairing, beer complements the flavors of grilled chicken wings beautifully.
  • Lemonade or Iced Tea: For non-alcoholic options, these drinks are refreshing and enhance the overall taste experience.
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How to Perfect Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Achieving perfectly crispy grilled chicken wings requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this dish.

  • Preheat Your Grill: Ensure it reaches 400℉ for optimal cooking and crisping of the skin.
  • Use Baking Powder: Mixing baking powder with your seasoning helps create an even crispier texture on the wings.
  • Refrigerate Before Cooking: Allowing seasoned wings to sit uncovered in the fridge for hours dries out the skin, resulting in extra crunchiness.
  • Flip Often: Turning the wings frequently while grilling ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice crisp on all sides.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Pairing your crispy grilled chicken wings with tasty side dishes enhances the meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

  1. Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
  2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is an easy-to-make side that complements grilled flavors wonderfully.
  3. Baked Beans: Hearty and flavorful, baked beans provide a savory contrast to spicy wings.
  4. French Fries: Classic fries serve as a comforting side that everyone loves; try sweet potato fries for a twist!
  5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy pasta salad is a cool counterpoint to hot, spicy wings.
  6. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your wings, garlic bread is always a hit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken wings can be a delightful experience, but several common mistakes can ruin your crispy grilled chicken wings. Here’s how to ensure your grilling is a success.

  • Skipping the Marinating Step: Not marinating the wings can lead to bland flavor. Always marinate them for at least 30 minutes or overnight for more intense taste.
  • Using High Heat from the Start: Starting with too high of a heat can burn the wings before they cook through. Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 400℉) for even cooking.
  • Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many wings on the grill at once can trap steam and prevent crisping. Grill in batches to allow proper air circulation.
  • Ignoring Cooking Times: Not monitoring cooking times can lead to undercooked or overcooked wings. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165℉.
  • Neglecting to Flip Them: Forgetting to flip the wings regularly can cause uneven cooking and crispness. Turn them every few minutes for even browning.
  • Not Using a Thermometer: Relying on guesswork instead of a thermometer may result in improperly cooked chicken. Invest in a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover crispy grilled chicken wings in an airtight container.
  • They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

  • Place cooled wings in freezer-safe bags or containers.
  • They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350℉, place wings on a baking sheet, and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Use microwave-safe plates and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short increments (30 seconds), checking frequently until warmed.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and cook wings for about 5-7 minutes, turning until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes crispy grilled chicken wings crispy?

The secret lies in proper seasoning and cooking techniques, such as using dry rubs and maintaining high grill heat.

Can I use different seasonings on my crispy grilled chicken wings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various spices, sauces, or marinades according to your taste preferences.

How long do crispy grilled chicken wings take to cook?

Typically, they take about 15-20 minutes on a preheated grill at medium-high heat, flipping occasionally until cooked through.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes! For baked options, follow instructions similar to those provided in the recipe notes for achieving crispy skin.

What should I serve with my crispy grilled chicken wings?

Consider serving them with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Final Thoughts

Crispy grilled chicken wings are perfect for gatherings or casual dinners. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors easily based on personal preference. Whether you choose Old Bay seasoning or spicy hot sauce, these wings are sure to impress. Try them out today!

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Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

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Crispy grilled chicken wings are an irresistible crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering from backyard barbecues to game nights. With a delightful crunch and mouthwatering flavor, these wings can be customized with your choice of seasoning—Old Bay, spicy hot sauce, or a rich garlic butter blend. They’re easy to prepare and cook in just 20 minutes on the grill, making them an ideal appetizer or main dish that everyone will love. Serve these wings alongside fresh celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauces for a complete experience that is sure to impress family and friends.

  • Author: Sabrina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (optional)
  • ½ cup Frank’s Hot Sauce (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons butter (for garlic butter option)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for garlic butter option)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400℉).
  2. Choose your seasoning: coat wings with Old Bay for a dry rub or toss them in hot sauce after grilling.
  3. Grill wings for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. If using the garlic butter option, melt butter and mix with garlic powder; toss grilled wings in the mixture before serving.
  5. Serve with celery sticks and dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 wings (approximately 152g)
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 890mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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