Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

Break out your Traeger, these Pellet Grill Chicken Wings are out of this world. So easy to make, perfect for summer BBQs, tailgating, or any game day party. With their smoky flavor and crispy skin, they are sure to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just a few simple steps transform basic chicken wings into a mouthwatering dish.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of Turkey Bacon grease and spices creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain or toss them in your favorite sauce for added zing.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These wings are great for parties, BBQs, or as a tasty snack while watching the game.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With five servings, there’s plenty to go around for everyone to enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pellet grill (like Traeger)
• Large bowl
• Sheet pan
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Pellet grill: This tool adds that authentic smoky flavor which is essential for perfect wings.
• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing the wings with seasonings without making a mess.
• Sheet pan: Useful for transferring seasoned wings to the grill easily.
• Tongs: Helps in flipping the wings halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

Ingredients

To prepare these delicious Pellet Grill Chicken Wings, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken Wings

• 2½ lbs chicken wings

Seasoning

• ⅓ cup Turkey Bacon GREASE (OR olive oil)
• 3 tsp Pappy’s seasoning
• 3 tsp granulated garlic
• 2 tsp seasoned salt
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp pepper

How to Make Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

1. Place chicken wings in a large bowl. Blot off any excess moisture.
2. Pour in the Turkey Bacon grease or olive oil. Toss to coat.

Step 2: Season the Wings

1. Move the wings to a sheet pan.
2. Add Pappy’s seasoning, granulated garlic, seasoned salt, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly coated.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Set your pellet grill temperature to 350℉ and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Grill the Wings

1. Place the seasoned chicken wings on the grill and close the lid.
2. Cook for 30-45 minutes until the skin is brown and crisp, and meat is no longer pink at the bone; remember to turn them halfway through cooking.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from grill.
2. Place in a large bowl and toss with your favorite sauce if desired or enjoy right off the grill.

With these easy steps, you’ll have perfectly grilled Pellet Grill Chicken Wings that everyone will love!

How to Serve Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

Pellet Grill Chicken Wings are perfect for any gathering. They can be enjoyed in many ways, making them a versatile choice for your next barbecue or game day feast.

Classic Dipping Sauces

• Buffalo Sauce: A spicy and tangy classic that pairs perfectly with crispy wings.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, ranch adds a cool contrast to the heat of the wings.
• BBQ Sauce: Sweet and smoky, BBQ sauce complements the grilled flavor of the wings.

Fresh Veggie Platter

• Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, they provide a nice balance to rich chicken wings.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crunchy, carrots add color and crunch to your serving platter.
• Cucumber Slices: Light and crisp, cucumbers enhance the freshness of your meal.

Hearty Accompaniments

• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and sweet, cornbread muffins are a delightful side that goes well with wings.
• Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked to crispy perfection, potato wedges are a filling option.
• Coleslaw: Crisp cabbage mixed with tangy dressing creates a refreshing side dish.

How to Perfect Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

For the best Pellet Grill Chicken Wings, attention to detail is key. Follow these tips for flawless results every time.

• Dry the Wings: Patting the wings dry helps achieve crispier skin during grilling.
• Use High-Quality Grease: Turkey Bacon grease or good olive oil enhances flavor while promoting crispiness.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is at 350℉ before cooking leads to even cooking and better texture.
• Turn Halfway Through Cooking: This ensures all sides get equally crispy and prevents burning.
• Let Them Rest After Grilling: Allowing the wings to rest for a few minutes keeps them juicy before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

Pairing sides with your Pellet Grill Chicken Wings can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their bold flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic butter adds a savory touch.
2. Macaroni Salad: Creamy pasta salad offers a cool contrast to hot wings.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky beans provide hearty comfort alongside spicy chicken.
4. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser at summer gatherings.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds sweetness and crunch.
6. Crispy French Fries: Golden fries make for an indulgent side that’s loved by everyone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking Pellet Grill Chicken Wings. Avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the drying process: Not blotting the wings can lead to soggy skin. Always dry your wings thoroughly before seasoning.
• Using too much oil: Over-oiling can make your wings greasy and prevent them from getting crispy. Use just enough to coat them lightly.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or burnt wings. Always preheat your grill properly.
• Not turning the wings: Failing to turn the wings halfway through cooking can lead to uneven cooking. Be sure to flip them for even crispness.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking for less than 30 minutes often leaves the meat undercooked. Ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

• Duration: These wings can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically so they don’t overcook.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on medium heat, adding a few drops of oil, and cook for 5-7 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best temperature for Pellet Grill Chicken Wings?

Cooking at 350°F is ideal for achieving crispy skin while ensuring the meat is thoroughly cooked.

Can I use different seasonings on my chicken wings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or sauces to match your taste preferences.

How do I know when my chicken wings are done?

Chicken wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have crispy skin.

Can I make these Pellet Grill Chicken Wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook.

What sides pair well with grilled chicken wings?

Consider serving with coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh vegetable platter for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

These Pellet Grill Chicken Wings are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for summer barbecues, tailgating, or any game day party, you can easily customize them with various seasonings and sauces. Give this recipe a try and delight your friends and family!