BBQ Chicken Wings

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Welcome to the world of finger-lickin' good BBQ Chicken Wings! These wings are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a weekend barbecue or just craving something smoky and sweet. They're easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with friends and family.

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are the star of the show, offering tender, juicy meat that's perfect for absorbing flavors. The BBQ sauce acts as the base for the marinade, providing a rich, tangy flavor that defines the dish. Adding honey gives a touch of sweetness, balancing the tanginess and helping the wings caramelize beautifully. A splash of apple cider vinegar introduces a bit of acidity, enhancing all the flavors. Garlic powder and smoked paprika bring depth and a hint of smokiness, while salt and black pepper round everything out. Finally, a drizzle of olive oil ensures the wings don't stick while cooking and adds a subtle richness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispy wings, pat them dry thoroughly before marinating.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked wings.
  • If you're low on BBQ sauce, mix ketchup with a bit of Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar as a quick substitute.
  • Marinate the wings for a few hours, or overnight if possible, for even more flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These BBQ chicken wings pair wonderfully with a fresh coleslaw or a crisp garden salad. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, serve them alongside some cheesy garlic bread or loaded potato skins. A cold, refreshing beer or iced tea would also complement the smoky flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Is there a way to make these wings spicier?
Absolutely! Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.

BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe Walkthrough

First, let's get everything prepped. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you're baking, or get your grill nice and hot to medium-high heat. While that's happening, grab a large bowl and mix together your BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This is going to be your marinade, so make sure it’s well-blended and delicious.

Now, take those chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better. Toss them into the bowl and give them a good mix until every wing is evenly coated with that tasty sauce.

If you're baking, line a baking sheet with foil and give it a light coating of olive oil. Arrange the wings in a single layer and pop them into the oven for 40-45 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through so both sides get nice and crispy.

If you're grilling, start by brushing the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Lay the wings directly on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to flip them occasionally to ensure even charring and cooking.

Once your wings are done, let them rest for a few minutes to lock in all those juices. Then, they’re ready to serve with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors.
  • Simple ingredients that pack a punch.
  • Versatile cooking options: bake or grill.
  • Quick prep time for those busy days.

Ingredients

3 lbs chicken wings
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in the bowl, tossing to coat them evenly with the sauce mixture.
4. For baking: Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with foil and greased with olive oil. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
5. For grilling: Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the wings for 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are charred and cooked through.
6. Once done, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

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