30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings

Seriously the Best Grilled Chicken Wings you’ll ever make! This 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings recipe is perfect for any occasion—from summer parties to game day. The wings remain juicy and tender thanks to a simple beer brine, while the unique two-zone grilling technique ensures a delicious charred exterior. Whether you’re serving them at a casual dinner or celebrating with friends, these wings are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy flavorful grilled wings that taste like they’ve been cooking all day.
• Juicy and Tender: The beer brine infuses moisture and flavor, resulting in chicken wings that are succulent and satisfying.
• Versatile Flavor Options: While this recipe focuses on buffalo-style wings, it also includes variations for dry-rubbed and marinated options.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these wings are guaranteed to be a hit among guests of all ages.
• Easy Cleanup: Grilling reduces mess compared to frying, making it easier to enjoy your meal without the hassle.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Large airtight container or resealable plastic bag
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill is vital for achieving that smoky flavor and crispy texture on your chicken wings.
• Resealable Plastic Bag: Ideal for marinating; it ensures even coverage of the brine on all wings.
• Basting Brush: Perfect for applying sauce evenly during grilling, ensuring each wing is coated in delicious flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings

• 3 pounds fresh chicken wing sections
• 16 ounces beer of choice (see Recipe Notes)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

For the Buffalo Sauce

• ¾ cup Frank’s RedHot Original
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1 heaping teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 heaping teaspoon smoked paprika

For Serving

• Crumbled blue cheese (as desired)
• Freshly snipped chives or green onions (as desired)
• Blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing (see Recipe Notes for our go-to wing dip!)
• Sliced carrots (as desired)
• Sliced celery (as desired)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings

Step 1: Brine the Wings

1. Place the chicken wings in a large airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
2. Pour the beer over top and season with kosher salt.
3. Toss well to combine, ensuring all wings are submerged in the brine.
4. Seal and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or up to 3 days.

Step 2: Prepare for Grilling

1. About 30 minutes before grilling, take the wings out of the refrigerator to reach room temperature.
2. Prepare your grill for indirect cooking by creating a zone of direct high heat and another zone of indirect heat.
3. If using a gas grill, preheat for at least 15 minutes before grilling. For charcoal grills, light them at least 30 minutes prior.

Step 3: Grill with Indirect Heat

1. Once hot, place brined chicken wings on the indirect side of the grill, shaking off excess brine.
2. Close the lid and cook with indirect heat for 7–10 minutes.
3. Flip and rearrange wings; cook an additional 7–10 minutes until nearly done.

Step 4: Finish Over Direct Heat

1. Move cooked wings over direct heat to achieve a crispy char—about 2 minutes per side.
2. Brush with prepared buffalo sauce while grilling until desired char is achieved.

Step 5: Serve Your Wings

1. Transfer grilled buffalo wings to a serving platter.
2. Drizzle any remaining buffalo sauce over top.
3. Garnish with freshly snipped chives or green onions and crumbled blue cheese as desired.
4. Serve immediately with blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing alongside sliced carrots and celery. Enjoy!

How to Serve 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings

Serving your 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive occasion, these wings can be paired with various sides and dips to enhance their flavor.

Classic Dipping Sauces

• Blue Cheese Dressing: A rich and creamy option that perfectly complements the spicy wings.
• Ranch Dressing: A cool and tangy dip that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.

Fresh Veggies

• Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, these are a classic side for buffalo wings.
• Carrot Sticks: Slightly sweet and crunchy, they add a nice contrast to the spicy wings.

Flavorful Garnishes

• Chives or Green Onions: Finely snipped, they add a burst of fresh flavor and color to your wings.
• Crumbled Blue Cheese: For those who love extra richness, this adds creaminess and depth.

Appetizer Platter

• Charcuterie Board: Create a spread with meats, cheeses, and fruits for a delightful pairing with grilled wings.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make a hearty side.

How to Perfect 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings

Perfecting your grilled chicken wings takes practice but can be achieved easily with some tips. Follow these guidelines for truly delicious results.

• Brine Well: Soaking the wings in beer brine helps ensure they remain juicy and tender during grilling.
• Use Two-Zone Heating: This technique allows you to cook the wings evenly without burning them.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Take your time with indirect cooking; it’s key to achieving tender meat.
• Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 165°F (74°C).
• Finish Over Direct Heat: This step gives your wings that desirable crispy char while sealing in moisture.

Best Side Dishes for 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings

Pairing side dishes with your juicy grilled chicken wings can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy salad that adds freshness to balance out spicy flavors.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the heat of buffalo sauce beautifully; grill it alongside the wings for convenience.
3. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide a comforting side that pairs well with barbecue flavors.
4. Macaroni Salad: Creamy pasta salad adds texture and is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
5. Potato Salad: Cool and creamy, potato salad is an excellent choice for picnics or summer barbecues.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and is great for dipping in leftover sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken wings can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve perfection. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Brine: Not brining your wings leads to dry meat. Always soak them in a flavorful brine, like beer and salt, for at least 12 hours to ensure juiciness.
• Incorrect Grill Temperature: Grilling at too high or too low of a temperature can ruin your wings. Use a two-zone grilling method; one side should be hot for charring, while the other remains cooler for cooking through.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many wings on the grill at once prevents even cooking. Give each wing space to breathe so they can crisp up properly.
• Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Cooking wings without checking their internal temperature may result in undercooked or overcooked meat. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
• Forgetting to Flip Wings: Neglecting to flip the wings can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to turn them halfway through the grilling process for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store grilled chicken wings in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers or resealable plastic bags to keep them fresh.

Freezing 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings

• Duration: You can freeze grilled wings for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place wings on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, but this may not keep them crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook the wings for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings spicy?

You can add more Frank’s RedHot or include diced jalapeños in your marinade for extra heat.

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken wings?

Yes! You can use drumsticks or chicken thighs, adjusting cooking times as needed based on thickness.

What is the best beer to use in the brine?

A light lager or pilsner works well, but feel free to experiment with any beer you enjoy drinking!

How long does it take to grill chicken wings?

Using this recipe, it takes about 20 minutes total on the grill after brining time, ensuring they are juicy and flavorful.

Can I prepare these grilled chicken wings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate them in advance and grill just before serving, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for 30-Minute Juicy Tender Grilled Chicken Wings is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying game day snacks at home, these wings will impress everyone at your table. Feel free to customize with different sauces or seasonings based on your taste preferences! Enjoy experimenting with flavors!