Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

August 14, 2025

These easy grilled chicken wings are crispy and packed with flavor. They are perfect for a backyard cookout or a cozy night in!

I love how simple they are to make—just season, grill, and enjoy! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra tasty treat. 🍗

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings work best for grilling. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen wings are a good substitute, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick. You can use canola or avocado oil if you’re looking for alternatives with a higher smoke point.

Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika works too. For more heat, you could also increase the cayenne pepper or try adding chili powder.

Fresh Parsley: This is optional but adds a pop of color. Feel free to replace it with other fresh herbs like cilantro or chives based on your preference.

How Do I Get My Chicken Wings Extra Crispy on the Grill?

To achieve that perfect crispy texture, there are a couple of key steps to follow. First, make sure your grill is adequately heated before placing the wings on it. This helps to seal in the juices and creates a nice, crispy skin.

  • Use medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F) so that the wings cook evenly.
  • Don’t overcrowd the grill. Space the wings out to allow for proper airflow.
  • Turn the wings every 5 minutes. This not only cooks them evenly but also prevents burning.
  • If possible, leave them over indirect heat for a few minutes at the end for extra crispiness without drying them out.

Letting them rest after grilling will help keep them juicy, so don’t skip that step! Enjoy your crispy grilled wings with a tasty sauce.

Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: your favorite BBQ sauce or hot sauce for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to grill, making a total of about 35-40 minutes. This means you can enjoy your delicious grilled chicken wings in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill:

First thing’s first, let’s get that grill ready! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 375°F to 400°F. This is the perfect temperature for crispy chicken wings!

2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:

In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with the olive oil until they are nicely coated. This helps the seasonings stick and keeps the wings juicy.

3. Mix the Seasonings:

In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. This blend packs a flavorful punch!

4. Season the Wings:

Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken wings and toss them again until each wing is well coated in the tasty spices. You want them to be flavorful all the way around!

5. Grill the Wings:

Now, place the wings on the grill in a single layer, making sure there’s some space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly. Grill the wings for about 20-25 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect golden-brown and crispy skin.

6. Rest and Garnish:

Once they’re cooked through and beautifully charred, take the wings off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This keeps them juicy. After resting, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your delicious grilled chicken wings with your favorite BBQ sauce or hot sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite!

Dig in and relish in the delights of your homemade grilled chicken wings—they’re sure to be a hit!

Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings in This Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before grilling. The best way to thaw frozen wings is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method: seal them in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a faster thaw.

What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?

If you don’t have olive oil, you can use canola oil or avocado oil as alternatives. Both will work well for marinating the wings and help achieve a nice, crispy texture on the grill.

Can I Make the Seasoning Mix in Advance? 

Absolutely! You can prepare the seasoning mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This way, it’s ready to use when you’re ready to grill your wings, saving you time on busy days!

How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Wings?

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy them as a quick snack or meal!

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