Charcoal grilling chicken wings is a popular summer activity that many people enjoy. Whether you’re having a barbecue in the backyard or just grilling up some wings for a quick snack, it’s important to know how to cook them properly. We’ll cover everything you need to know to grill the perfect chicken wings on your charcoal grill. From how long to grill them for, to when they’re done, we’ll cover it all. So grab your apron and let’s get grilling!
Introduction
Grilling chicken wings on charcoal grill can be a delicious way to enjoy your favorite snack. However, with so many variables to consider, it can be challenging to determine the perfect cooking time. To make sure your chicken wings are grilled to perfection, keep the following points in mind.
1. Prepare the chicken wings: Before placing the chicken wings on the grill, you need to prepare them. Start by removing any excess fat or flaps, and pat the wings dry with a paper towel. Then, season both sides of the wings with your preferred spices or sauces to add flavor.
- Tip: Use indirect heat: By using indirect heat, you can avoid burning your chicken wings and cooking them evenly.
2. Time to grill: Once your charcoal grill is hot and the coals have turned to white ash, you’re ready to grill. On average, chicken wings take about 20-30 minutes to cook on a charcoal grill.
- Tip: Monitor the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring they are safe to eat.
- Tip: Flip frequently: Turn the wings over every 5-7 minutes to prevent burning and create grill marks on both sides.
3. Check for doneness: The best way to check if your chicken wings are done is to use a meat thermometer. However, you can also inspect them visually. If the wings are crispy on the outside and the juices run clear when you cut into them, they are ready to eat.
How to Cook Chicken Wings on a Charcoal Grill
When it comes to cooking chicken wings on a charcoal grill, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure that they come out juicy and full of flavor. After all, nobody likes dry and flavorless wings!
The first step is to prepare the grill by heating up the charcoal until it turns white and ashy. You can then spread out the coals to create two zones, one for direct grilling and one for indirect grilling.
- Direct Grilling: This involves placing the chicken wings directly over the heat source. This method is best for searing the wings and giving them a crispy exterior.
- Indirect Grilling: This involves placing the chicken wings on the cooler side of the grill, away from the heat source. This allows the wings to cook slower and more evenly, ensuring that they are fully cooked on the inside without burning on the outside.
Once the grill is prepped and ready, it’s time to season the chicken wings. You can use any dry rub or marinade that you prefer, but a simple mixture of salt, garlic powder, and paprika is always a crowd-pleaser. Be sure to coat the wings evenly and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
| Direct Grilling | Indirect Grilling |
|---|---|
| Place the seasoned chicken wings directly over the heat source. | Place the seasoned chicken wings on the cooler side of the grill, away from the heat source. |
| Flip the wings every 5-7 minutes until they are fully cooked, approximately 20-25 minutes total. | Cover the grill and let the wings cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking time. |
How Do You Know When BBQ Chicken Wings Are Done?
There’s nothing quite like the taste of BBQ chicken wings fresh off the grill, but it can be difficult to know whether or not they’re fully cooked. After all, no one wants to take a bite into raw or undercooked chicken! So, how do you know when BBQ chicken wings are done?
First and foremost, it’s important to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the wings. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C), meaning that the thickest part of the wing should reach this temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the wing, being careful not to touch the bone.
- If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check the color of the meat. When fully cooked, the meat should be opaque throughout and the juices should run clear.
- Another indicator of doneness is the texture of the meat. When cooked, the meat should pull easily from the bone.
It’s also important to make sure that the grill is at the right temperature. Preheat your charcoal grill to a medium heat before placing the chicken wings on the grill. To ensure even cooking, space the wings out on the grill and rotate them regularly.
| Weight of Chicken Wings | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 1 pound (454g) | 20-25 minutes |
| 2 pounds (907g) | 40-50 minutes |
| 3 pounds (1360g) | 60-75 minutes |
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the wings and the temperature of the grill. If you’re unsure whether or not the wings are fully cooked, use the food thermometer to double-check.
Should You Pre Cook Chicken Wings Before Grilling?
Chicken wings are a popular summer barbecue dish and can be cooked in many ways. One question that often arises is whether or not you should pre-cook chicken wings before grilling them. Let’s take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
Benefits of Pre-Cooking: Pre-cooking chicken wings before grilling them can ensure that they are thoroughly cooked and free of any harmful bacteria. This method also allows you to cook the wings evenly, preventing undercooked or overcooked portions. Additionally, pre-cooking chicken wings can save you time on the grill, a great convenience when grilling for a large crowd.
- Thoroughly cooked wings
- Even cooking
- Time-saving for larger quantities
Drawbacks of Pre-Cooking: One drawback to pre-cooking chicken wings is that they can become dry. Overcooking in this step may result in less juicy and tender wings. Furthermore, pre-cooked wings may lose their flavor since they have been pre-cooked with seasoning. Another drawback is the need for additional time and effort in the kitchen pre-cooking before grilling.
- Dry wings
- Loss of flavor
- Additional time and effort
Whether or not you pre-cook chicken wings before grilling depends on personal preference. Pre-cooking can potentially offer a safer and more predictable cooking method with more time on the grill for other dishes, but it does have drawbacks. Many people opt for a simple marinade and to cook the wings directly on the grill, letting the grill work its magic with the flavor. Whatever your preference, make sure that the wings are cooked thoroughly.
| Benefits of Pre-Cooking: | Drawbacks of Pre-Cooking: |
|---|---|
| Thoroughly cooked wings | Dry wings |
| Even cooking | Loss of flavor |
| Time-saving for larger quantities | Additional time and effort |