If you are looking for a dish that delivers bold flavor, irresistible crispiness, and that perfect balance of herbs and spices, you cannot go wrong with this Grilled Chicken Wings with Herb-Spiced Marinade Recipe. These wings are wonderfully juicy inside with a charred crust on the outside, infused with garlic, thyme, oregano, and a few more magic ingredients that elevate every bite. Whether it’s game day, a weekend gathering, or simply a craving for something delicious, this recipe brings together simplicity and exceptional taste in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these grilled chicken wings lies in a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each element plays its part to ensure you get a crispy exterior, juicy meat, and a vibrant herbaceous flavor that keeps things exciting bite after bite.
- Kosher salt: Perfect for seasoning as it seasons evenly and enhances natural flavors without overpowering.
- Ground mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth that wakes up the palate beautifully.
- Garlic powder: Brings that familiar warmth and aromatic punch we all love in chicken dishes.
- Onion powder: Offers a gentle savory sweetness that rounds out the spice blend.
- Paprika: Infuses a smoky note and a lovely reddish hue that makes the wings look as delicious as they taste.
- Dried thyme: Introduces an earthy, slightly minty herb flavor that pairs perfectly with poultry.
- Dried oregano: Complements with its robust and slightly peppery tones for that extra herbal complexity.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that lifts the whole flavor profile.
- Chicken wings (2 pounds): The star of the dish, fresh and ready to soak in all the wonderful marinade flavors.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the marinade cling to the wings and promotes a crisp, golden finish on the grill.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Wings with Herb-Spiced Marinade Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Herb-Spiced Marinade
Start by combining your kosher salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Give it a thorough stir to create a balanced and fragrant seasoning mix that’s bursting with flavor. This aromatic blend is the heart of the recipe and the secret to those unforgettable grilled wings.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken Wings
Pat your chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks well and the skin crisps up beautifully on the grill. Toss the wings into a large bowl or a zip-top bag, drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over them, and mix until all wings are evenly coated. Next, sprinkle in the herb-spiced marinade and toss again, making sure every wing is layered with that delicious seasoning.
Step 3: Marinate and Let Them Rest
Allow the wings to rest in the marinade for at least 20 minutes. This short resting time is enough for the herbs and spices to penetrate gently while the oil keeps the skin moist, giving you the perfect balance of flavors once grilled. If you’re pressed for time, this step can be quick, but letting it sit longer intensifies the herbaceous notes wonderfully.
Step 4: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. To prevent sticking and help develop those stellar grill marks, brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil using a brush or a paper towel grabbed with tongs. This step is crucial for that beautiful sear and signature grilled texture every wing lover craves.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Place your wings on the grill, spacing them out so they cook evenly without steaming. Let them cook undisturbed for 10 minutes, then flip each wing over gently and grill for an additional 5 to 8 minutes. You want the skin to be crispy and all the spices to get nicely charred while ensuring the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy eating. The combination of heat and time achieves that coveted balance of char, crunch, and tender meat.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Wings with Herb-Spiced Marinade Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple touch of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh, vibrant note that contrasts beautifully with the smoky wings. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can also bring a zesty zing that lifts every bite and provides a wonderful dimension to the herb-spiced marinade flavors.
Side Dishes
Grilled chicken wings pair famously well with classic sides like crisp coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, or a refreshing cucumber salad. If you want to keep things cozy, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread provide comforting balances. The key is to choose sides that complement the bold herbaceous wings without overwhelming their star flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these wings family-style on a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Alternatively, thread the grilled wings onto skewers for easy presentation at parties or serve them alongside a trio of dipping sauces – think garlic aioli, spicy ranch, and honey mustard – for a customizable flavor adventure that everyone will love. Presentation can turn these simple wings into the centerpiece of your gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover grilled chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to keep the meat tender and avoid sogginess. When ready to enjoy, bringing them back to life is quick and easy.
Freezing
If you want to keep wings longer, freezing is a great option. Lay cooled wings on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen wings store well for up to 2 months and make a convenient, tasty snack or meal addition anytime you crave that herb-spiced grilled goodness.
Reheating
To reheat your wings without losing their crispiness, the oven or a grill pan is your best friend. Preheat to 375°F (190°C), place wings on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through and the skin re-crisps. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crispy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this Grilled Chicken Wings with Herb-Spiced Marinade Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen wings but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator before applying the marinade and grilling. Thawing ensures even cooking and better absorption of the seasoning flavors.
How long can I marinate the wings before grilling?
This recipe calls for a 20-minute marinade, which is perfect for quick flavor infusion. However, you can marinate for up to 24 hours in the fridge to intensify the taste further. Just cover tightly and marinate overnight for more robust herb flavors.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I make this recipe indoors?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan or even broil the wings in your oven. A grill pan helps mimic that outdoor grill char, while broiling gives a similar high heat for crispiness; just watch the wings carefully to avoid burning.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not overly. The black pepper and ground mustard bring a gentle warmth, but this grilled chicken wings recipe focuses more on savory herbs and smoky paprika than heat. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder if you prefer a spicier bite.
Can I prepare the wings earlier in the day and grill later?
Definitely! Prepare the marinade, toss the wings, and keep them covered in the fridge. When ready to grill, take them out to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, then grill as directed. This flexibility makes it great for party prep or meal planning.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about biting into perfectly grilled chicken wings bursting with herb-spiced flavor and an irresistible crispy skin. This Grilled Chicken Wings with Herb-Spiced Marinade Recipe is a wonderful go-to that’s straightforward to prepare but impressively delicious. So fire up that grill, invite your loved ones, and make some unforgettable memories with every flavorful wing you serve. You’re going to love how easy it is to take this classic favorite to a whole new level.
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Grilled Chicken Wings with Herb-Spiced Marinade Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe for Grilled Chicken Wings features a flavorful dry rub made from a blend of spices including kosher salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, and herbs. The wings are marinated briefly, then grilled to crispy perfection, making them a delicious and easy appetizer or main dish perfect for any barbecue or casual meal.
Ingredients
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, divided
Instructions
- Make the seasoning mix: Combine the kosher salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Stir together until well mixed.
- Prepare the wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them in a large mixing bowl or a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss the wings until they are evenly coated.
- Season the wings: Add the prepared seasoning mix to the wings and toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the spices.
- Marinate: Let the seasoned wings rest for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Using a brush or a folded paper towel held with tongs, apply the remaining olive oil onto the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the wings: Arrange the chicken wings directly on the grill. Cook them for 10 minutes on one side without moving, then flip and grill an additional 5 to 8 minutes. The wings should be crispy, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165°F to ensure doneness.
Notes
- Patting the wings dry before applying oil and spices helps achieve a crispier skin.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for safety and best results—wings should reach 165°F internally.
- Brush grill grates with oil to prevent wings from sticking and tearing when flipped.
- Letting wings rest in seasoning enhances flavor absorption but avoid marinating longer than 30 minutes to prevent drying out the skin.
- Can be served with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
