These BBQ chicken wings are finger-licking good! They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, smothered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce that everyone loves.
Every time I make these, the guests go crazy! I like to serve them with extra sauce on the side—just in case someone needs a little more yum! Try them at your next party!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh wings are ideal for grilling, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, try using skinless wings or even thighs. They still deliver great flavor and tenderness.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, but if you’re out, you can make a simple mix of ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar. I love using a tangy sauce for that extra zing!
Olive Oil: This helps the seasonings stick to the wings and aids in grilling. If you prefer a different flavor, avocado oil works well too. Just avoid using oil with a low smoke point.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These add depth to the wings. Fresh garlic and onions can be used instead, but adjust the amounts since they are more potent.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor to the wings. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is a good substitute, or even a dash of cayenne if you want some heat!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Wings?
Grilling wings may seem tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve crispy, flavorful results. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill: This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. A medium-high heat is perfect for grilling wings.
- Toss them well: Coating the wings with oil and spices helps create a great crust while grilling. Make sure they are evenly coated.
- Keep them moving: Turn the wings every few minutes to avoid burning and to get that nice golden color on all sides.
- Add sauce at the right time: Brush the BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes to prevent it from burning and to get that sticky, caramelized finish.
- Let them rest: Allow the wings to sit before serving. This helps lock in the juices for a tender bite!
How to Make The Best BBQ Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the wings and around 20-25 minutes grilling them to perfection. Perfect for a tasty snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures it’s hot enough to give the wings those gorgeous grill marks and to cook them thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful coating for your chicken wings. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss everything together until the wings are well-coated in the seasoning mix.
3. Grill the Wings:
Place the seasoned wings on the grill. Cook them for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally so they grill evenly. You’re looking for nice, golden grill marks, and they should be cooked through when finished.
4. Add the BBQ Sauce:
During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush a generous amount of your chosen BBQ sauce over the wings. This will allow it to caramelize slightly and create a delicious, sticky glaze on the wings.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once the wings are done cooking, take them off the grill and let them sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the wings for a more flavorful bite.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the wings for a burst of color and freshness. Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken wings!
Can I Use Different Types of BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce or even experiment with different flavors, such as sweet, spicy, or smoky. Just remember that the flavor of the sauce will significantly impact the overall taste of your wings.
Can I Bake These Wings Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can bake the wings if it’s more convenient! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Spread the wings on the sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add the BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes for that caramelized finish!
How to Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to keep them crispy!
What Can I Serve with BBQ Chicken Wings?
BBQ chicken wings pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, coleslaw for some crunch, or potato wedges for a hearty meal. Enjoy your feast!
