Grilling chicken wings can result in delicious and flavorful dishes. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grill great chicken wings from Papa Ken at Maine Grilling Products.
Ingredients:
- Chicken wings
- Marinade or seasoning of your choice (e.g., BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, dry rub, buffalo sauce)
- Cooking oil (for preventing sticking)
- Optional: Dipping sauces or glazes
Equipment:
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Grill brush
- Tongs
- Thermometer (optional but helpful)
Instructions:
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Prep the Wings:
- If using whole chicken wings, separate them into drumettes and wingettes. You can also purchase pre-cut wings.
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels. Dry wings will result in crispier skin.
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Marinate or Season:
- In a large bowl, coat the wings evenly with your choice of marinade or seasoning. You can use store-bought sauces or make your own marinade.
- If marinating, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. You can marinate for several hours or overnight for more flavor.
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Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If using charcoal, ensure the coals are evenly distributed.
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Oil the Grates:
- Use a paper towel or cloth dipped in vegetable oil and tongs to oil the grill grates. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking.
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Grill the Wings:
- Place the chicken wings on the preheated grill. Be sure to arrange them in a single layer and leave some space between each wing to allow for even cooking.
- Grill the wings for about 20-30 minutes, turning them every 5-10 minutes to ensure even cooking. Use tongs to flip them.
- If using a thermometer, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
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Baste or Glaze (Optional):
- If you're using a sauce or glaze, start applying it during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling. Brush the sauce on both sides of the wings and allow it to caramelize slightly.
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Check for Doneness:
- Ensure the chicken wings are cooked through and have a nice char on the outside.
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Remove and Rest:
- Take the wings off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
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Serve:
- Serve the grilled chicken wings hot with your choice of dipping sauces or additional glaze.
Remember that grill times can vary depending on your grill's temperature, the size of the wings, and personal preference. Keep a close eye on them, and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve your desired level of doneness and crispiness. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken wings! Enjoy! Papa Ken