Grilled Chicken Wings

Smoky, crispy, and coated in a buttery, tangy sauce, these Grilled Chicken Wings are marinated to perfection and then grilled until juicy and flavorful. They’re perfect for summer cookouts, game day, or anytime you’re craving finger-licking goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep flavor from an easy, flavorful marinade
• Grilled for extra smokiness and crispy skin
• Buttery, tangy wing sauce with adjustable heat
• Perfect for parties, BBQs, or casual dinners
• Can be prepped ahead and cooked quickly

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Wings:

• 3 pounds chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Wing Sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/2 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon white vinegar

directions

1. If needed, split wings into flats and drumettes. Trim and discard the tips. Pat dry and transfer to a large bowl or zip-top bag.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the marinade over the wings, toss to coat, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to 425°F (218°C). Let wings come to room temperature.
5. For the sauce, melt butter and combine with hot sauce, soy sauce, and vinegar. Whisk and adjust to taste.
6. Grill wings for 12–18 minutes, flipping every 4–5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 170–180°F and wings are crispy.
7. Remove from grill, let rest a few minutes, then toss in wing sauce or serve sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes (includes marinating)
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: 619 kcal per serving

Variations

• Use a sweet BBQ sauce instead of the tangy wing sauce
• Add cayenne or chipotle powder to the marinade for more heat
• Try a honey-garlic glaze for a sticky-sweet option
• Swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version
• Use lemon juice or lime in the marinade for a citrus twist

storage/reheating

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I bake these wings instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

Do I need to marinate overnight?

A few hours is enough, but overnight will deepen the flavor.

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Yes, drumsticks or thighs also work well, just adjust grilling time accordingly.

What grill temperature is best?

Medium-high heat (around 425°F) for a good sear and crispy skin.

How do I know the wings are done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 170–180°F.

Can I make them less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of hot sauce or add more butter to mellow it out.

Are these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make them gluten-free.

What sides pair well with grilled wings?

Coleslaw, potato salad, grilled corn, or fresh veggies with dip.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, marinate ahead and grill when ready to serve. You can also pre-cook and reheat.

Should I oil the grill grates?

Yes, lightly oil the grates before grilling to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Wings are a smoky, savory, and crispy treat that are always a hit. With a simple marinade and customizable sauce, these wings are easy to prepare and even easier to devour. Perfect for any occasion, they bring bold flavor to the table every time.

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