Get ready to transform your backyard grilling game with the most mouthwatering, irresistibly sticky, and perfectly charred chicken wings you've ever tasted! These Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken Wings are not just a dish; they're a culinary experience that will have your friends and family begging for your secret recipe. Imagine tender, juicy wings glazed with a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, kissed by the flames of the grill, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to succulent meat inside. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, game day party, or just craving something extraordinary, these wings are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your chicken wings. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the marinade adhere better and ensure the wings get crispy when grilled.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the honey, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well blended.
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. You can use your hands or a spatula to mix them thoroughly. For best results, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time.
- While the wings are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and have turned white before placing the wings on the grill.
- Once the grill is ready, remove the wings from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade, as it has been in contact with raw chicken.
- Place the wings on the grill, arranging them in a single layer. Close the grill lid and cook the wings for about 15 minutes on one side. Avoid flipping them too soon to allow a good sear to form.
- After 15 minutes, flip the wings over and continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes. The wings should be crispy and have a nice char. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Once the wings are cooked through, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping them tender and juicy.
- Serve the grilled honey BBQ chicken wings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. They pair well with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Tips
- Pat those wings dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin, so make sure to thoroughly pat your chicken wings with paper towels before marinating.
- Marinate for maximum flavor: While 15 minutes works, letting the wings sit in the marinade for up to 2 hours will intensify the flavor profile.
- Grill temperature matters: Maintain a consistent medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F) to ensure even cooking and that perfect caramelization.
- Don't flip too early: Allow wings to develop a beautiful sear before flipping, which helps create that irresistible crispy exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure the wings are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Let them rest: Allowing the wings to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and moist.
- Optional garnish: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions can add a pop of color and freshness to your final presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 489kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
