Some of the best recipes come from pure, delicious accidents. This one? A happy accident turned household staple. One summer evening, I was hosting a backyard BBQ, fully expecting to wow my guests with an elaborate menu. But, as luck would have it, I completely forgot to marinate the chicken wings I had planned. With guests arriving in 20 minutes and zero time for an elaborate seasoning process, I grabbed the only three things that made sense—garlic, dried herbs, and a bit of oil. Toss, grill, pray. That was my process.
The result? Hands-down the best grilled wings recipe I’d ever made. Perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and packed with garlicky, herby goodness. My friends devoured them so fast that I barely got a taste. From that day on, these crispy grilled chicken wings became a go-to for quick dinners, game nights, and last-minute BBQs. They’re simple, foolproof, and incredibly flavorful—no complicated marinades, no overnight prep, just delicious wings in no time.
So, if you’re looking for an easy yet show-stopping chicken wing on the grill recipe, you’re in the right place. Let’s get grilling!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
1. Ridiculously Easy to Make
No lengthy prep, no fussy marinades—just three simple ingredients and a grill. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a total beginner, you can master this recipe with zero stress.
2. Crispy, Juicy, and Loaded with Flavor
Who says you need deep-frying for crispy wings? The combination of dry heat and high-temperature grilling makes these crispy grilled chicken wings absolutely irresistible—crunchy outside, tender inside.
3. Perfect for Any Cooking Method
No grill? No problem! These wings can be made in a skillet, oven, or even under the broiler. Whether you’re cooking chicken wings in a skillet, roasting chicken wings in the oven, or using the broil chicken wings method, you’ll get amazing results.
4. Healthier Than Fried Wings
These healthy chicken wings don’t require deep-frying, making them a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative to traditional fried wings.
5. Ideal for Any Occasion
Game day? Check. Weeknight dinner? Check. Backyard BBQ? Absolutely. These wings fit in anywhere and everywhere.
6. Customizable to Your Taste
Love heat? Add some cayenne. Want something tangy? A splash of lemon juice works wonders. These wings are a blank canvas for whatever flavors you crave.
7. Works with Fresh or Frozen Chicken Wings
Didn’t defrost your wings? No worries! You can grill frozen chicken wings with a little extra cooking time—no sacrifice in flavor or texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings and drumettes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or any dried herb blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon paprika for a smoky kick
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan for extra umami
Equipment Needed:
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Tongs for flipping
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (if using the oven)
- Skillet (for stovetop cooking)
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Pat your chicken wings and drumettes dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and seasonings stick while also ensuring a crispier texture.
Step 2: Season
In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Massage the seasoning into the wings to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Wings
Place the wings on the grill in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes per side, flipping once, until they’re golden brown, crispy, and have an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the wings from the grill, let them rest for a couple of minutes, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes & Pro Tips for Perfection
- Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensuring your wings reach 165°F guarantees they’re fully cooked and juicy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill – Spacing them out allows air to circulate, resulting in crispier skin.
- For Extra Crispiness – After grilling, pop them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes.
- Oven or Skillet Method – Bake at 425°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway. For the skillet, cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
Bonus Pro Tips for the Recipe
- Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensuring your wings reach 165°F guarantees they’re fully cooked and juicy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill – Spacing them out allows air to circulate, resulting in crispier skin.
- For Extra Crispiness – After grilling, pop them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes.
- Oven or Skillet Method – Bake at 425°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway. For the skillet, cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Let the Wings Rest – Allowing them to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain their juiciness.
- Experiment with Dips – Try ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy honey glaze to elevate the flavor.
Wing It: Your Questions Answered
Can I make these wings in the oven?
Absolutely! For oven chicken wings, bake at 425°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.
What’s the best way to grill chicken wings without drying them out?
Keep the heat at medium-high and don’t overcook. Using oil in the seasoning helps keep them juicy.
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes! Just add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time and ensure they reach 165°F.
What should I serve with these wings?
They pair perfectly with coleslaw, grilled veggies, or a side of sweet potato fries.
Can I use this recipe for BBQ wings?
Yes! Simply brush on your favorite chicken wings BBQ grill sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
