Fire up the grill and get ready for a crowd-pleasing classic! These BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings are smoky, sweet, slightly charred, and irresistibly juicy — everything you want from summertime grilling. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, a game-day hangout, or just craving restaurant-style wings at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. Readers who love grilling, outdoor cooking, and timeless comfort food will appreciate how easy and reliable this method is. With just a handful of pantry staples and your favorite BBQ sauce, you’ll serve wings that disappear fast!
Duration / Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: About 3 pounds of grilled wings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken wings, split at joints, wingtips removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for extra caramelization)
Directions
- Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Season the Wings: Pat chicken wings thoroughly dry using paper towels. Dry wings = crispier skin. Place wings in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Start Grilling: Arrange wings on the grill in a single layer. Cook for 20–25 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes to ensure even grilling. Wings should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F, but 175–185°F gives a more tender, shreddable texture typical of BBQ wings.
- Add the BBQ Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Brush the wings generously with the mixture during the final 5 minutes of cooking. Flip once or twice and baste again to build layers of sticky caramelized flavor without burning.
- Rest & Serve: Transfer wings to a plate and let them rest for 3 minutes before serving. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy immediately.
Tip:
If flare-ups occur from dripping fat, move wings to an indirect-heat zone until flames settle. This helps prevent scorching.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Sugars: 8g
Pro-Tip:
For wings that achieve perfect crispiness, deep smoky flavor, and that signature grill-marked caramelization, a reliable gas barbecue grill makes all the difference. If you’re cooking on an older grill or haven’t invested in one yet, upgrading can dramatically improve heat control, reduce flare-ups, and give you more consistent results every time you grill. Modern grills heat faster, maintain temperature more evenly, and offer features that make backyard cooking easier and more enjoyable—especially for recipes like these BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings. If you’re considering a new grill or ready to enhance your outdoor cooking game, click the button below to browse top-rated barbecue grills on Amazon and find the perfect match for your grilling style.
Conclusion
These BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings capture everything people love about backyard grilling: bold flavor, smoky aroma, and irresistibly crispy-yet-juicy bites. The simple seasoning blend and sticky BBQ glaze make this a recipe you’ll return to all summer long — and your friends will ask for again and again. Whether you’re new to grilling or a seasoned pro, this recipe ensures delicious, reliable results every time. Fire up the grill, grab the tongs, and enjoy the wings that will quickly become the star of your BBQ spread!
