If you’re craving a finger-licking treat that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a hint of citrusy zing, then you absolutely need to try this Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe. These wings are irresistibly sticky with a luscious honey garlic sauce, complemented by the smoky char from the grill. Whether you’re hosting a game day, a backyard BBQ, or just want a delicious meal that’s easy to whip up, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Trust me, once you make these wings, they’ll become your new go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe so fabulously flavorful is the simplicity and quality of each ingredient. Every single item in the list plays a key role, from the bright freshness of orange juice to the caramelizing sweetness of honey, creating a perfectly balanced wing experience.
- 12-14 whole chicken wings or 24 party wings: Using separated wingettes and drumettes ensures they cook evenly and get plenty of saucy goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken before grilling.
- Thinly sliced green onion for garnish: Adds a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color to the finished dish.
- 1 orange, juiced (about 1/3 cup): Fresh orange juice infuses bright citrus notes into the sauce, cutting through the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup honey: The star of the sauce that brings luscious sweetness and helps create that sticky, glossy coating.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth that balances the honey’s sweetness perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps keep the sauce smooth and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a warm, aromatic punch without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: The secret to thickening the sauce, giving it that perfect clingy texture.
How to Make Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
Start by whisking together fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Place it over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent any sticking or burning, and watch as the sauce thickens into a gorgeous, glossy glaze in about 3 to 4 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside. This sauce will coat the wings with a perfect balance of sweet, garlicky, and citrusy goodness.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken Wings
While your sauce is cooling, season the chicken wings generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill to medium heat, and don’t forget to oil the grates so the wings won’t stick. Place the wings on the grill and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning them occasionally. This ensures each side gets that beautiful char and cooks through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. The grilling process imparts a smoky flavor that takes these wings to the next level.
Step 3: Finish and Serve
When the wings are perfectly grilled, remove them from the heat and toss them in the honey garlic sauce, making sure every wing is generously coated. To finish, sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions, adding a fresh bite and vibrant pop of color. Serve these wings hot, and get ready to wow your friends and family with this show-stopping Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe.
How to Serve Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions is a simple way to brighten the dish both visually and in flavor. You can also add a few chili flakes if you like a subtle spicy kick to contrast the sweet glaze. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be great alternatives to add a touch of green freshness.
Side Dishes
These wings pair beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A crunchy coleslaw or a tangy cucumber salad cuts through the richness of the wings and adds a cool contrast. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce—no drip goes to waste here!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re aiming to impress, present the wings on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper for a casual vibe. Arrange the wings in a circular pattern with small bowls of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese in the center for a crowd-pleasing appetizer platter. You can also skewer the wingettes and drumettes for an easy-to-handle finger food option at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the wings’ texture, then toss them together before reheating.
Freezing
If you want to save wings for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the wings on a baking sheet lined with foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until hot through. Reapply some of the reserved honey garlic sauce to refresh their sticky, saucy magic before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the wings in the refrigerator overnight before grilling. This ensures even cooking and helps you avoid any undercooked spots.
What can I substitute for cornstarch in the sauce?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour as common thickening substitutes. Just remember that they might slightly alter the sauce’s texture or clarity.
Is it possible to bake the wings instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake the wings on a lined baking sheet at 425°F for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Finish by tossing them in the honey garlic sauce just like you would with grilled wings.
How do I get the wings extra crispy on the grill?
Pat your wings dry before seasoning and grilling to reduce moisture. Also, make sure your grill is hot and avoid moving the wings too frequently so they can develop a nice char and crisp skin.
Can I make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before coating your freshly grilled wings for that perfect sticky finish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s simple, flavorful, and beautifully grilled, I can’t recommend this Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe enough. The combination of sweet honey, zesty orange, and savory garlic glaze over smoky grilled wings is a match made in heaven. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again for gatherings and family dinners alike. So fire up your grill and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious wings!
Print
Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 party wings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious grilled chicken wings glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for gatherings or a flavorful weeknight meal. This recipe combines fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and garlic for a sticky, mouthwatering coating with a fresh green onion garnish.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 12–14 whole chicken wings or 24 party wings, wingette and drumette separated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Thinly sliced green onion for garnish
Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1 orange, juiced (approximately 1/3 cup fresh orange juice)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and cornstarch. Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. Set the sauce aside once thickened.
- Grill the Chicken Wings: Season the separated chicken wings generously with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the wings for 12 to 15 minutes, turning them as needed to ensure even cooking, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating they are fully cooked and juicy.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the cooked wings from the grill and immediately toss them in the prepared honey garlic sauce until well-coated. Plate the wings and garnish with thinly sliced green onions for added freshness and color. Serve the wings hot for best flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey according to your taste.
- Ensure the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- To prevent flare-ups on the grill, keep wings at medium heat and move them around as needed.
- Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor impact in the sauce.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking.
