Cooking Buffalo Chicken Wings on the BBQ is a fantastic way to enjoy this classic dish, especially when the weather permits outdoor grilling. The smoky flavor from the BBQ adds an extra layer of taste that can’t be achieved in the oven. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients
- Chicken wings (separated into flats and drumettes)
- Salt and pepper
- Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: butter, for a richer sauce
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing, for serving
- Celery and carrot sticks, for serving
Preparation
- Prep the Wings: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. It’s important for the wings to be as dry as possible to ensure they crisp up on the grill.
- Season: Lightly season the wings with salt and pepper. If you’re using a homemade Buffalo sauce that’s heavily salted, adjust the amount of salt you use on the wings accordingly.
Cooking
- Preheat the BBQ: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect heat.
- Grill the Wings: Place the wings on the grill away from the direct heat if using a charcoal grill, or directly on the grates if using gas. Close the lid and let them cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and get a nice char.
- Sauce the Wings: While the wings are grilling, prepare your Buffalo sauce by heating it in a pan over low heat. If you like your sauce buttery, you can add a tablespoon or two of butter to the sauce as it warms.
- Toss the Wings in Sauce: Once the wings are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), toss them in the Buffalo sauce until they’re well coated.
- Final Grilling: Return the sauced wings to the grill for an additional 2-3 minutes per side to caramelize the sauce and add a bit of char.
Serving
- Rest the Wings: Let the wings rest for a few minutes after taking them off the grill. This is a good time to pour yourself a refreshing drink!
- Serve: Serve the wings hot, accompanied by blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping, and celery and carrot sticks on the side to help cool the palate.
Tips for Success
- Dry Your Wings: Making sure your wings are dry before they hit the grill is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Keep the wings spaced out on the grill to ensure they cook evenly and get a good char.
- Indirect Heat for Charcoal Grills: If using a charcoal grill, cooking the wings over indirect heat helps cook them through without burning.
- Final Sauce Toss: Tossing the grilled wings in the sauce right before serving ensures they’re flavorful and moist.
Enjoy your BBQ Buffalo Chicken Wings with friends and family as the perfect snack for game day, outdoor gatherings, or just because you deserve some delicious wings!
