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These grilled chicken wings come out perfectly juicy with a punchy garlic lemon and herb marinade that is always the highlight of every backyard get together. Simple ingredients and easy prep mean you can serve them as an appetizer or the main event at any cookout or casual dinner at home.
I first made these wings for a summer barbecue with my neighbors and watched the platter disappear in minutes. Now I make an extra batch every time because my family begs for them on game nights.
Ingredients
- Chicken wings party style: This cut cooks quickly and is extra tender. Look for wings with skin on for best grill marks.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade stick. Choose a good extra virgin oil for depth.
- Brown sugar: Balances the tangy flavors and helps caramelize the wings. Use light or dark depending on your preference.
- Dijon mustard: Gives a little bite and creaminess. Dijon works better than yellow for this.
- Soy sauce: Deepens the savory umami and adds saltiness. Opt for low sodium if you like less salt.
- Lemon zest: Bright and fresh notes make the wings taste summery. Always zest just the yellow part to avoid bitterness.
- Parsley leaves: Freshness and color on the wings and as a garnish. Flat-leaf parsley tastes best.
- Thyme leaves: Earthy flavor that stands up to grilling. Fresh is best but use dried if you must.
- Salt: Draws out moisture and amplifies everything else
- Pepper: Adds a slight heat and balances the sweetness
- Minced garlic: Provides bold flavor. Choose fresh garlic cloves over pre-minced for the punchiest taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium bowl whisk together olive oil brown sugar Dijon mustard soy sauce lemon zest parsley thyme salt pepper and minced garlic. This creates a tangy and aromatic base that infuses the wings with layers of flavor.
- Marinate the Wings:
- Add the chicken wings to a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade all over making sure every piece is well coated. Refrigerate at least one hour for the flavors to soak in or up to eight hours if you want them extra tasty.
- Preheat and Prep the Grill:
- Heat your outdoor grill or a grill pan indoors over medium heat. Give the grate a quick brush of oil to prevent sticking. Let the grill get properly hot so the wings will sear instead of steam.
- Grill the Wings:
- Place the marinated wings on the grill. Cook each side for about ten minutes turning them as needed so they get a golden crisp but never burn. This step is where you develop char and caramelization.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once the wings are nicely colored and cooked through remove them from the grill. Scatter on extra parsley for a pop of freshness before serving hot.
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I love using lots of lemon zest it brightens the whole dish and reminds me of my grandmother’s grilled chicken from my childhood. Watching my kids pull apart these wings with sticky fingers is now one of my favorite family memories.
Storage Tips
Leftover wings keep well in the fridge for up to three days packed in an airtight container. Reheat gently on a skillet or in the oven to keep them from drying out. You can also freeze the cooked wings and thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of fresh herbs dried thyme and parsley will still give plenty of flavor. Maple syrup or honey works as a sweetener in place of brown sugar. For a soy sauce substitute coconut aminos or tamari make the recipe gluten free.
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Serving Suggestions
Pile the grilled wings on a platter and scatter lemon wedges and more fresh herbs on top. Pair with grilled corn a crisp salad or garlic bread for a full meal. They also make a hearty snack for watching sports or casual picnics.
The History of Grilled Wings
Chicken wings became a party staple thanks to Buffalo style wings but every region puts its own spin on the marinade. This version celebrates the brightness of Mediterranean flavors and makes the most of a grill’s smoky char. Passing around wings fresh off the flame has been a tradition in my family for decades.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should the wings marinate for best flavor?
Allow the wings to marinate for at least 1 hour, but for deeper flavor, up to 8 hours is ideal.
- → What grilling method works best for these wings?
Medium heat on an outdoor grill or grill pan ensures even cooking and a golden, slightly crisp exterior.
- → Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Dried herbs can be substituted, but fresh parsley and thyme add a brighter flavor and color to the finished wings.
- → How can I prevent the wings from burning on the grill?
Turn the wings occasionally while grilling to avoid burning and ensure an even golden hue.
- → What can I serve alongside these wings?
Try serving them with a citrusy salad, roasted vegetables, or simple dipping sauces for variety.