Irresistible BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe for Perfect Gatherings

Name: BBQ Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

April 23, 2025

Updated:

April 23, 2025

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BBQ chicken wings are the ultimate party food, evoking memories of summer barbecues, family gatherings, and that one neighbor who always seems to have the grill going. Picture this: crispy, caramelized skin that gives way to juicy, tender meat, slathered in a tangy sauce that dances on your taste buds. Now imagine the aroma wafting through the air as these beauties cook—it’s enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Whether you’re hosting a game day bash or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, BBQ chicken wings promise an explosion of flavor that’s sure to delight.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the grill for backyard feasts every Sunday evening. My dad would claim mastery over the BBQ chicken wings, flipping them with skill while imparting wisdom about grilling techniques—I mostly just watched in awe and waited for my turn to devour his creations. The joy of biting into those smoky wings still lingers in my heart. And trust me, whether it’s a sunny afternoon picnic or a cozy winter gathering, these BBQ chicken wings will make you feel like a culinary rock star!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means you can whip these up in no time for any occasion
The flavor profile is rich and savory with a hint of sweetness that keeps you coming back for more
Their sizzling appearance will wow your guests and make your table look gourmet
Plus, they’re versatile enough for grilling, baking, or frying—perfect for any cooking style!

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Wings

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Wings: Choose fresh or frozen chicken wings; both work well but ensure they’re thawed if frozen.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps crisp up the skin and enhances flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that elevate your wings’ natural taste.

For the Sauce:

Ketchup: Acts as the base for your sauce—go for high-quality ketchup for better flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelization.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides acidity that balances out the sweetness perfectly.
Garlic Powder: Essential for adding depth; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
Smoked Paprika: Imparts a smoky flavor reminiscent of outdoor grilling, even if you’re indoors!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make BBQ Chicken Wings

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place an oven-safe rack on top. This allows heat circulation around the wings.

Step 2: Season Your Wings

In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. Don’t skimp on seasoning; it makes all the difference!

Step 3: Bake Until Crispy

Arrange the seasoned wings on the rack in a single layer. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make Your BBQ Sauce

While your wings are baking, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium saucepan over medium heat until combined.

Step 5: Coat Your Wings

Once your wings are done baking and have reached crispy perfection, transfer them into a large mixing bowl and pour your homemade BBQ sauce over them. Toss until every wing is generously coated.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer to plates or a serving platter with some extra sauce drizzled on top for added flair. Pair with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing if you’re feeling fancy!

Now you’re ready to dig in! These BBQ chicken wings not only bring back fond memories but also create new ones around your dining table—or coffee table during game night! Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

This BBQ chicken wings recipe combines smoky, tangy flavors that are sure to impress your friends and family
It’s easy to customize based on your spice tolerance, ensuring everyone can enjoy these mouthwatering delights
Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken wings for at least an hour to soak in all that flavor. While they absorb goodness, prepare your grill for medium heat. Grill the wings until they’re crispy and golden, turning them occasionally for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the spices to suit your taste! Add some honey for sweetness or a dash of cayenne for heat. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauces for unique flavor profiles every time you make these wings.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover BBQ chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through to retain their crispy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make perfectly crispy BBQ chicken wings, dry them thoroughly before marinating
Avoid overcrowding the grill for even cooking
Always check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety

Sometimes I whip up these BBQ chicken wings when I want to impress my friends, but honestly, it’s just an excuse to eat a mountain of deliciousness while pretending I’m a grill master.

FAQs :

What are BBQ Chicken Wings?

BBQ chicken wings are a popular appetizer or main dish featuring chicken wings coated in barbecue sauce and grilled or baked. They are known for their smoky flavor, tenderness, and crispy skin. You can enjoy them at parties, cookouts, or even as a quick weeknight meal. Many variations exist, allowing you to customize the sauce and seasonings according to your taste preferences. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or tangy flavors, BBQ chicken wings can be adapted to suit any palate. For more inspiration, check out this Main dishes to try recipe.

How long do you cook BBQ Chicken Wings?

Cooking BBQ chicken wings typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). If grilling, you should cook them over medium heat for about 20 to 25 minutes. It’s essential to turn the wings occasionally for even cooking and crispy skin. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. For more inspiration, check out this Useful cooking tips recipe.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Wings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare BBQ chicken wings in advance! Marinate the wings in your favorite sauce and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, simply bake or grill the marinated wings until they reach the desired level of crispiness. This method is perfect for meal prep or when hosting gatherings.

What dipping sauces pair well with BBQ Chicken Wings?

BBQ chicken wings pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces. Classic choices include ranch dressing and blue cheese dressing, both of which complement the smoky flavor of the wings. For a zesty kick, try serving them with hot sauce or a tangy garlic aioli. These dips enhance the overall flavor experience and provide an exciting contrast to the sweetness of barbecue sauce.

Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Wings :

BBQ chicken wings are a delicious and versatile choice for any occasion. With their crispy texture and rich flavor profile, they are sure to please any crowd. Cooking these wings is simple; just remember to marinate them well and cook until crispy. Don’t forget about pairing them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra burst of flavor! Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, BBQ chicken wings will surely be a hit on your table.