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I remember the first time I tried combining chili, lime, and honey. It was a total accident! I was throwing together a quick marinade for some chicken, and a little bit of everything ended up in the bowl. The result? An explosion of flavor that had everyone at the table asking for more. That’s how these Chili Lime Honey Grilled Chicken Wings were born. Its not an exact science, I'm sometimes known to leave out ingredients and forget the recipe! I might have even done it in this blog, see if you can find it! Ha!
These wings are the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, while the chili powder provides a gentle warmth. The lime juice brings a zesty tang that cuts through the richness, creating a flavor combination that’s simply addictive. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, tailgating at a game, or just looking for a fun and flavorful dinner, these wings are sure to be a hit. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience chicken wing perfection. Oh and the grill? My grandpa has one from the 70s, he claims its the best. I think he's just sentimental.
Required Equipments
Grill
Mixing Bowls
Whisk
Tongs
Baking Sheet
Meat Thermometer
Chili Lime Honey Grilled Chicken Wings: Sweet Spicy and Irresistibly Delicious: Frequently Asked Questions
Chili Lime Honey Grilled Chicken Wings: Sweet Spicy and Irresistibly Delicious
These Chili Lime Honey Grilled Chicken Wings are a flavor explosion! Sweet honey, spicy chili, and tangy lime combine for an unforgettable grilling experience. A perfect appetizer or main course, these wings are easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined for an even flavor distribution. Oh, and dont forget the lime zest! It adds a real zing.
Marinate the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them thoroughly to ensure each wing is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be. But don't go over night or they'll become too mushy; yuck!
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). Make sure the grates are clean to prevent sticking.
Grill the Wings: Remove the chicken wings from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the wings on the preheated grill. Grill for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Baste (Optional): During the last 5-10 minutes of grilling, you can baste the wings with extra marinade for a stickier, more flavorful finish. Be careful not to add too much at once, as the honey can cause flare-ups.
Check for Doneness: The wings are done when the juices run clear when pierced with a fork or meat thermometer, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Nobody likes raw chicken! Safety first!
Rest and Serve: Once the wings are cooked through, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful wings.
Garnish (Optional): Garnish with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor and presentation. These wings are great on their own or served with your favorite sides, like coleslaw or potato salad.
📝 Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken wings for at least 30 minutes.
Baste with extra marinade during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling for a stickier finish.