These BBQ chicken wings are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for your next game day or backyard party! With a sticky sauce that makes every bite delicious, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Honestly, who can resist the sight of wings? They’re a crowd favorite! I love serving them with a side of ranch for dipping—it’s a match made in heaven! 🍗💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh or frozen wings both work well. If you’re short on time, look for pre-cut wing sections. Alternatives like chicken drumsticks offer a similar flavor profile but will be juicier.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought sauce, or make your own for a personal touch. If you need a healthier option, swap in a sugar-free barbecue sauce or a marinade that fits your dietary needs.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil or canola oil will work too. Both have high smoke points, making them ideal for grilling.
Spices: The garlic and onion powders add depth. If you don’t have them, fresh minced garlic and shallots can substitute, just use less since they’re stronger. Smoked paprika brings a wonderful smokiness; try regular paprika if you don’t have it.
How Do I Get the Best Char on My Chicken Wings?
Getting a perfect char on your chicken wings can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right!
- Preheat your grill properly to ensure even cooking.
- Place the wings in a single layer to avoid steaming, which can happen if they’re too crowded.
- Cook over medium-high heat and turn them every few minutes. This helps develop that appealing char.
- Brush on the barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes. This prevents burning while allowing the sauce to caramelize beautifully.
How to Make the Best BBQ Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 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 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and then around 20 minutes grilling those delicious wings. Perfect for a tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature will help get those wings nice and crispy.
2. Season the Chicken Wings:
While the grill is heating up, grab a large bowl and toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each wing is evenly coated with the seasoning—this will give them wonderful flavor!
3. Grill the Wings:
Now it’s time to place the seasoned wings on the grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes on each side. Remember to turn them occasionally to get nice char marks and ensure they cook evenly.
4. Add the BBQ Sauce:
During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the barbecue sauce over the wings. Make sure they are coated well! Keep grilling until the sauce becomes caramelized and sticky.
5. Let the Wings Rest:
Once the wings are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back in, making them extra tasty!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Transfer the wings to a serving platter. To make them look extra nice, garnish with some chopped parsley. Now, dig in and enjoy your homemade BBQ chicken wings!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Be sure to thaw them completely before marinating. You can thaw by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using a cold water bath. Just put them in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing some of the spices, you can adjust based on what you have. For example, if you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Just remember, the flavor might vary a bit.
How Should I Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Wings?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.
Can I Cook These Wings in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) instead of grilling. Place the wings on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush with barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes for that sticky finish!
