Crispy BBQ Chicken Wings: The Ultimate Recipe

Chicken wings are a BBQ party staple, and mastering them will make you the hero of any gathering. Here's how to achieve that perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat.

Why These Wings Work

Our recipe combines three key techniques:

1. Dry brine - For maximum crispiness
2. Indirect grilling - For even cooking
3. High-heat finish - For that irresistible char

Ingredients

For approximately 24 wings (serves 6-8):

• 3 lbs (1.3 kg) chicken wings, tips removed, flats and drums separated
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika

For the BBQ Sauce Glaze:

• 1 cup (240 ml) your favorite BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Day Before (or at least 4 hours ahead)

1. Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels
2. Mix baking powder with seasonings in a small bowl
3. Toss wings with the seasoning mixture until evenly coated
4. Arrange on a wire rack over a baking sheet
5. Refrigerate uncovered for 4-24 hours

Grill Day

1. Preheat your grill for two-zone cooking:

   • Hot side: 400°F (200°C)
   • Cool side: indirect heat

2. Start on indirect heat

   • Place wings on the cool side
   • Close the lid
   • Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway

3. Check for doneness

   • Internal temperature should reach 175°F (79°C)
   • Skin should start crisping

4. Move to direct heat

   • Transfer wings to the hot side
   • Grill for 3-4 minutes per side
   • Watch carefully to prevent burning

5. Glaze (optional)

   • Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 2 minutes
   • Let it caramelize slightly

6. Toss in sauce

   • Transfer wings to a large bowl
   • Add remaining sauce
   • Toss to coat evenly

Pro Tips for Perfect Wings

Crispier Skin

• The baking powder is essential—it raises the pH and helps break down proteins for crispier skin
• Never skip the overnight dry brine step

Even Cooking

• Separate flats and drums for more consistent results
• Group similar sizes together on the grill

Sauce Timing

• For sticky glazed wings: sauce during grilling
• For sauced wings: toss after grilling
• For dry rub lovers: skip the sauce entirely

Flavor Variations

Transform your wings with these sauce combinations:

Generate Your Complete Wing Menu

Want sides to go with your wings? Let BBQ Menu AI create a complete party menu with coleslaw, cornbread, and more!

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