These Easy BBQ Chicken Wings are a tasty treat! They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for game day or any fun gathering!
Honestly, is there anything better than finger-licking good wings? I can never eat just one—it’s a rule! Best part? They’re super simple to whip up. Just bake or grill and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: The star ingredient! You can find whole wings at the store, but if you want convenience, go for pre-separated flats and drumettes. If you’re watching your intake, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead, though the texture will be different.
BBQ Sauce: Your choice of sauce can really change the flavor! If you like a spicy kick, try a sauce with chipotle. For something sweeter, go for honey barbecue. You can also make a simple homemade BBQ using ketchup, vinegar, and spices!
Olive Oil: This helps to crisp up the wings. If you’re out of olive oil, use any cooking oil you have on hand, like vegetable or canola oil. I personally prefer olive oil for its flavor and health benefits.
How Can I Make Sure My Wings Are Crispy?
Getting that crispy skin is key for great chicken wings. Start by making sure your wings are dry. After rinsing, pat them thoroughly with paper towels. This helps eliminate moisture, which is crucial for achieving crispiness.
- Cook the wings at medium-high heat to allow them to cook through while developing a crispy exterior.
- Consider using a wire rack while baking. This lets air circulate around the wings for even crisping.
- Brush on the BBQ sauce at the end of cooking. This prevents burning while still giving that sticky glaze. Don’t shy away from letting them char just a bit—that’s where the flavor lives!
Easy BBQ Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to cook. Your wings will be ready in just 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick and tasty meal or a party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Device:
First, decide if you’re grilling or baking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-204°C). If you’re opting for the oven, set it to 400°F (204°C). Preheating is essential—it helps to get those wings nice and crispy!
2. Dry the Wings:
Using paper towels, pat the chicken wings dry. This step is really important because it helps the skin get crispy when cooking. Nobody wants soggy wings!
3. Season the Wings:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and olive oil. Toss everything together until the wings are evenly coated in the seasonings. This is what gives them incredible flavor!
4. Cook the Wings:
Now, place the wings on the grill grates or on a wire rack sitting on a baking sheet if using an oven. Grill or bake the wings for 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them golden brown and crispy, and they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, generously brush BBQ sauce over the wings. Don’t be shy here! Make sure to turn them and coat the other side too. This will create a delicious sticky glaze while allowing some parts to char for extra flavor.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once they’re done, remove the wings from the heat and transfer them to a serving plate. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the wings hot and enjoy your flavorful, easy BBQ chicken wings! These wings will have everyone reaching for seconds—happy eating!
These wings are beautifully caramelized with char marks and a luscious BBQ glaze. The fresh parsley adds a lovely touch. Perfect for any casual gathering or game day festivities!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Wings
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw frozen chicken wings is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker thawing method.
How Can I Make These Wings Spicier?
If you love some heat, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning mix before cooking. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce or toss the cooked wings in hot sauce after you coat them with BBQ sauce for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This helps keep their crispiness!
Can I Bake These Wings Instead of Grilling?
Absolutely! Just place the seasoned wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake them at 400°F (204°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Baking gives them that crispy texture, just like grilling!
