There’s something irresistible about perfectly grilled chicken wings—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with smoky flavor. As someone who loves both cooking and sharing simple yet delicious recipes, I can confidently say that this grilled chicken wings recipe is a game-changer. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, prepping game-day snacks, or just craving something tasty, these wings come together in no time and always impress.
What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is. No complicated marinades, no deep-frying mess—just a few basic ingredients and a hot grill. The result? Tender, flavorful wings with just the right amount of char. Even if you’re new to grilling, this method is foolproof. Let’s dive in and make the best quick and easy grilled chicken wings you’ve ever had!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken wings: The star of the dish! Look for fresh, plump wings with smooth skin. You can buy them whole and separate them into drumettes and flats or purchase them pre-cut for convenience.
Olive oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning stick and prevents the wings from sticking to the grill. It also adds a subtle richness to the flavor.
Garlic powder: This adds a deep, savory note without the hassle of fresh garlic. It blends seamlessly into the seasoning mix for even flavor distribution.
Paprika: Whether sweet or smoked, paprika gives the wings a beautiful color and a mild, earthy sweetness. Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of depth if you love a smoky taste.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper adds a slight kick, while salt brings out the natural juiciness of the chicken.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats separated)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
How to Make Quick and Easy Grilled Chicken Wings
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick better and ensures crispy skin. Place them in a large bowl.
Step 2: Season the Wings
Drizzle the wings with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until evenly coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 375-400°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Wings
Place the wings on the grill in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes per side, flipping occasionally, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This keeps them juicy. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Dry the wings well—moisture prevents crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Adjust the seasoning—add cayenne for heat or brown sugar for sweetness.
- Grill with indirect heat if flare-ups happen to avoid burning.
- Double the batch—these wings make great leftovers!
FAQs
Can I bake these wings instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
How do I store leftover wings?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
What sauces pair well with these wings?
Classic choices like buffalo, BBQ, ranch, or blue cheese work great. A squeeze of lemon also adds brightness.
Can I use frozen wings?
Thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
How do I prevent sticking on the grill?
Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled before adding the wings.
Enjoy your perfectly grilled wings—they’re sure to be a hit!