Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Indulge in Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings that are not only easy to make but also perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, watching the game with friends, or having a family dinner, these wings deliver mouth-watering flavors and satisfying crunch. Choose from various seasonings like Old Bay, spicy hot sauce, or a buttery garlic blend to customize your experience.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

These wings are not just tasty; they bring several benefits to your table.

• Flavorful Options: With choices like Old Bay seasoning and spicy hot sauce, you can cater to different taste preferences.
• Easy Preparation: The grilling process is straightforward, making these wings perfect for beginner cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy night in, these wings fit right in.
• Crispy Texture: The grilling technique ensures that each wing has that irresistible crispy skin.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair with celery and your favorite dipping sauces for an extra touch of flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing crispy grilled chicken wings.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Tongs
• Saucepan with lid
• Cooking thermometer
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and crispy skin on the wings.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping and handling the wings without losing their juicy goodness.
• Saucepan with lid: Ideal for shaking or tossing the wings with 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)
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning
• ½ cup Frank’s Hot Sauce
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

Before you start, read the options for crispier skin in the recipe notes.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill to 400℉ (medium-high heat).

Step 3: Grill Old Bay Wings

• Sprinkle Old Bay evenly over both sides of the wings.
• Place them on the grill and cook covered for 5 minutes.
• Flip the wings over and cook for another 5 minutes.
• Repeat this process until fully cooked (15-20 minutes total) until golden brown and crisp.

Step 4: Make Hot Wings

Grill as directed above. Optionally add hot sauce:
1. Gently heat hot sauce in a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Transfer cooked wings to saucepan and shake until coated.

Step 5: Prepare Butter Garlic Wings

1. Melt butter in a saucepan with garlic powder stirred in.
2. Transfer grilled wings to saucepan and shake until evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

Serve with celery sticks and dressing of choice if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Crispy grilled chicken wings are a fantastic appetizer or main dish that can be paired with various sides and sauces. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some tasty serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Classic Pairings

• Celery Sticks: Fresh and crunchy, celery adds a refreshing crunch that balances the spicy flavors of the wings.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing is a perfect dip for those who enjoy a cool contrast to the heat of the wings.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For a bolder flavor, serve with blue cheese dressing that complements the savory taste of grilled chicken.

Flavor Enhancements

• Hot Sauce Drizzle: A simple drizzle of extra hot sauce on top can spice things up for those who crave more heat.
• Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey over the wings for a sweet and sticky finish that contrasts beautifully with savory seasonings.
• Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and freshness; squeeze it over the wings just before serving.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for an added burst of color and flavor.
• Pickled Vegetables: Serve with pickled jalapeños or carrots for a tangy bite that complements the rich flavors of the wings.

How to Perfect Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Achieving perfectly crispy grilled chicken wings involves careful preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your wings come out golden brown and delicious every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Generously season your wings with spices like Old Bay or garlic powder before grilling. This enhances flavor and helps create a crispy exterior.
• High Heat Grilling: Grill at 400℉ for optimal crispiness. Cooking at higher temperatures helps render fat from the skin, leading to that coveted crispy texture.
• Flip Frequently: Turn your wings regularly while grilling. This ensures even cooking and allows all sides to achieve that golden-brown perfection.
• Dry Brining: Consider refrigerating seasoned wings uncovered for several hours. This technique dries out the skin, leading to extra crispiness when grilled.
• Use Baking Powder: Mixing baking powder with seasoning can help achieve an ultra-crispy skin. Just one tablespoon mixed in will do wonders!
• Rest After Cooking: Let your wings rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping them moist inside while maintaining crispiness outside.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings

Pairing side dishes with crispy grilled chicken wings can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their rich flavors beautifully.

1. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw balances the heat of the wings with its coolness and crunch.
2. Potato Salad: Classic potato salad offers comfort and pairs well with grilled meats, adding heartiness to your spread.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is sweet and juicy—a perfect summer side dish alongside chicken wings.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty aspect to your meal, making them an excellent pairing with spicy flavors.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread brings additional flavor and is perfect for soaking up any sauce leftover from the wings.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and sweetness, balancing out the savory notes of grilled chicken perfectly.
7. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a favorite; its richness complements spicy wing flavors wonderfully.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up sauces from your wings while providing a mild base to round out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings, even small oversights can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Ignoring the marinade time: Not allowing the wings to marinate can lead to bland flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper taste.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many wings on the grill can prevent them from cooking evenly. Grill in batches to ensure each wing gets enough heat.
• Skipping the preheat: Not preheating the grill can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to about 400℉ before adding your wings.
• Not flipping regularly: Failing to flip the wings can cause burning on one side. Turn them every 5 minutes for even crispiness.
• Using insufficient seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your wings taste dull. Be generous with your chosen spices or sauces for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked wings in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Place wings in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Place wings on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes for crispy results.
• Microwave: Microwave on medium power in short bursts (1-2 minutes) until heated through but may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed, which helps retain some crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I achieve crispy skin on my grilled chicken wings?

To get that perfect crispy skin, ensure that you dry the wings thoroughly before seasoning and grilling. Consider refrigerating seasoned wings uncovered for a few hours before grilling.

Can I use other seasonings besides Old Bay?

Absolutely! You can customize your chicken wings with various spices like garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite BBQ rubs.

What is the best way to serve Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings?

Serve these delicious wings with celery sticks and your choice of dressing, such as ranch or blue cheese, for a classic touch.

Can I bake these Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings instead of grilling?

Yes! For baking instructions, refer to the notes section in the recipe where you can find tips for achieving crispy baked wings.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Grilled Chicken Wings are not only flavorful but also highly versatile! Customize them with different seasonings or sauces to suit your taste. Whether it’s a cookout or game day, these wings will surely impress everyone at the table!