Grilled chicken wings are a beloved staple of American cuisine, known for their smoky, tangy flavours and succulent meat. These wings are a favourite at backyard parties, sports events, and casual dinners, celebrated for their versatility and the communal enjoyment they bring. These can also be barbecued and its where the recipe originated as you will discover.
The origins of barbecue chicken wings can be traced back to the American South, where barbecue has long been a cherished tradition. While chicken wings were once considered a less desirable cut of meat, creative cooks and chefs transformed them into a culinary delight through the art of barbecuing. The process of barbecuing wings involves slow-cooking them over indirect heat, often with the addition of wood chips to infuse a smoky flavour. This method ensures that the wings remain juicy on the inside while developing a crispy, caramelized exterior.
The preparation of grilled/barbecue chicken wings begins with a marinade or rub. The marinade typically consists of a blend of spices, herbs and acidic components like vinegar or citrus juice. These ingredients help to tenderize the meat and enhance its flavour. Common spices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, creating a balance of heat and sweetness. Alternatively, a dry rub can be used, which incorporates similar spices but without the liquid component. The instructions to both grill and barbecue are in the recipe.
Once marinated, the wings are placed on the grill over indirect heat. This allows them to cook slowly and evenly, preventing the outside from burning while the inside remains undercooked. The key to perfect barbecue wings is patience, the low and slow cooking process can take up to two hours. However they are worth the wait. During this time, the wings can be basted with barbecue sauce, which caramelizes and forms a sticky, flavourful coating.
Barbecue sauce is an essential component of barbecue chicken wings. There are numerous regional variations, from the sweet and tangy Kansas City style to the vinegar-based sauces of North Carolina. The sauce can be applied during the cooking process or served on the side for dipping.
Grilled chicken wings are a dish that everyone should experience. It’s not just the aroma of the chicken but the sticky marinade and barbecue sauce. These can be enjoyed at a summer cookout or during a game day party, barbecue chicken wings remain a testament to the joy of communal eating and the rich tradition of American barbecue. Being able to grill them means it doesn’t matter how bad the weather is outside, they can always be on the menu.
Grilled Chicken Wings
Grilled chicken wings are a smoky, tangy treat perfect for gatherings and casual dinners. This recipe ensures juicy, flavourful wings with a crispy, caramelized exterior.
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Add to CollectionServings: 4 People
Calories: 568kcal
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels.2 lbs chicken wings
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, honey, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, salt, pepper
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight) to marinate.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 250-275°F/120-140°C) for indirect grilling. If using a charcoal grill, push the coals to one side. For a gas grill, only turn on one side of the burners.
- Place the marinated wings on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat), arranging them in a single layer.
- Close the grill lid and cook for 45 minutes, turning the wings occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After 45 minutes, brush the wings with barbecue sauce, then cook for an additional 45 minutes, basting with more sauce every 15 minutes. Turn the wings occasionally for even caramelization.1 cup barbecue sauce
- Once the wings are cooked through and the sauce is caramelized (internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove them from the grill.
- Serve the wings hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Enjoy these delicious barbecue chicken wings with your favourite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
Nutrition
Calories: 568kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 1639mg | Potassium: 463mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 1306IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 3mg