Juicy & Flavorful: The Ultimate Grilled Beer Marinated Chicken Wings Recipe

Prepare to elevate your grilling game with these incredible Grilled Beer Marinated Chicken Wings! Perfectly juicy, bursting with flavor, and so satisfying, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for wings. The simple, adaptable beer marinade is effortless to prepare and pairs beautifully with virtually any BBQ sauce you can imagine. Discover why beer truly is the secret ingredient to grilling happiness!

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Traeger. As always, all opinions expressed are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

There’s something uniquely satisfying about grilled chicken wings, and they are a year-round favorite in my kitchen, especially when I fire up the grill. I have a collection of beloved wing recipes, many featuring intricate homemade sauces and bespoke spice blends that deliver very specific flavor profiles. While I adore these culinary creations, there are certainly times when I crave simplicity without sacrificing flavor.

On those occasions, I reach for pre-made spice rubs and high-quality, flavorful BBQ sauces that I can simply toss the wings in. This allows for a quicker, more relaxed cooking experience, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

The Magic of Easy Flavor

And that, my friends, is precisely where the magic of this grilled beer marinated chicken wings recipe truly shines. This recipe isn’t about complexity; it’s about maximizing flavor with minimal effort. The marinade is designed to be incredibly adaptable and balanced, making it a versatile base that welcomes a variety of beer choices. Whether you prefer a crisp lager or a fruity IPA, the marinade complements rather than overwhelms.

What’s more, its neutral yet rich flavor profile means it pairs seamlessly with a wide array of BBQ sauces. Craving something smoky and sweet? Go for it. In the mood for a zesty, tangy kick? Absolutely. This flexibility ensures you can customize your wings to suit any craving or occasion, making them perfect for game days, backyard BBQs, or a simple family dinner.

Beyond the simple marinade, the actual grilling process for these wings is astonishingly easy, thanks to one incredible tool: Traeger grills. My obsession with Traeger dates back years. I vividly remember when my mom first acquired her Traeger. Suddenly, I found myself at her house weekly, eager to grill and smoke every ingredient I could get my hands on. The flavors achieved were simply unmatched.

So, when Traeger offered me the chance to try their Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill, I literally jumped for joy! I ran around the house, screaming with excitement, “I am going to GRILL and SMOKE and ROAST and BAKE ALL. THE. THINGS!!!!” This enthusiasm wasn’t just for grilling; it was for the sheer versatility and ease that Traeger brings to outdoor cooking.

More wings recipes to explore: Spicy Miso Glazed Chicken Wings / Dry Rub Wings / Grilled Honey Sriracha Wings / Grilled Cajun Wings

Essential Ingredients for Beer Marinated Wings

Crafting the perfect beer-marinated wings begins with a thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the deep, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile that makes these wings irresistible. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Chicken Wings: For the freshest and often more economical option, we recommend purchasing whole chicken wings and breaking them down yourself into flats (wingettes) and drummettes. This is surprisingly easy to do, and you can save the wing tips to make flavorful chicken stock later. If time is of the essence, pre-cut wings work just as well.
• Cornstarch: This might seem like an unconventional addition, but a light coating of cornstarch is key to achieving that desirable crispy skin on the grill. It creates a thin, crisp shell that holds up beautifully to the heat and helps seal in the juices.
• Chicken Rub: Elevate the base flavor of your wings with a high-quality chicken rub. While we love using Traeger’s Fin and Feather Rub for its balanced blend of savory and aromatic notes, feel free to use your favorite. A garlic rub, a smoky paprika blend, or even a spicy Cajun rub would also be fantastic choices.
• Beer: The star of our marinade! Opt for a pale ale, lager, or a lighter IPA. These types of beer offer a pleasant malty sweetness and subtle hop notes without overpowering the chicken. The stronger the beer’s flavor, the more pronounced it will be in the marinade, so choose wisely based on your preference. Avoid overly bitter or dark beers, which can lend an undesirable taste.
• Soy Sauce: This adds a rich umami depth and a hint of saltiness to the marinade, balancing the sweetness of the honey and the spices. You can use either low-sodium or regular soy sauce, depending on your dietary needs and salt preference.
• Honey: A touch of honey introduces a mild sweetness that beautifully complements the beer and helps to achieve a lovely caramelization on the wings during grilling. Maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent substitutes if you prefer.
• Spices: Our marinade boasts a fragrant blend of onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Onion powder contributes an aromatic base, smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky depth, and chili powder provides a gentle, earthy heat. This combination ensures a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Hot Sauce: For a delightful kick, a dash of hot sauce is essential. Frank’s Red Hot Sauce is a classic choice, offering a balanced heat and tangy flavor. Adjust the amount to your personal spice tolerance, or experiment with other hot sauces for different flavor dimensions.
• Vinegar: A mild vinegar is crucial for balancing the marinade’s richness and helping to tenderize the chicken. Rice wine vinegar is highly recommended for its delicate acidity. White wine vinegar or champagne vinegar are also good alternatives. Steer clear of strong white vinegar, as its sharp flavor can be too overpowering.
• BBQ Sauce: The finishing touch! Choose your absolute favorite BBQ sauce to toss the grilled wings in. Whether it’s a classic smoky, a sweet and tangy, or a spicy chipotle, the versatility of this beer marinade means it will pair perfectly.

Why the Traeger Grill is a Game-Changer for Wings

You might be asking, “Why all the excitement about a grill?” And I’m thrilled to tell you! Traeger grills are far from ordinary. They aren’t charcoal, nor are they propane; they are revolutionary wood-fired grills that do so much more than just grill. They offer an unparalleled cooking experience that elevates simple dishes like chicken wings into culinary masterpieces.

The beauty of a Traeger lies in its ingenious design, combining the effortless convenience of a gas grill with the rich, authentic flavor of real wood smoke. Instead of charcoal or propane, Traeger grills use all-natural wood pellets as their fuel source. This means every dish you cook is infused with a subtle yet distinct smoky aroma and flavor, even if you’re not actively “smoking” the food.

The variety of wood pellets Traeger offers is truly impressive, each imparting a unique flavor profile. For chicken, I often gravitate towards Cherry or Hickory pellets. Cherry pellets lend a mildly sweet and fruity flavor that beautifully complements poultry, while Hickory provides a classic, robust smoky taste that is quintessential for BBQ. These wood flavors don’t just cook your food; they become an integral part of its taste, enhancing every bite.

But the versatility of a Traeger doesn’t stop at grilling and smoking. This incredible machine can literally do it all: it roasts, it bakes, it braises, and it even BBQs. From slow-smoked ribs to wood-fired pizzas, and yes, even perfectly baked cookies, the Traeger handles it with precision and unmatched flavor. It’s the only outdoor cooking appliance you’ll ever need, truly rocking my world and transforming my approach to outdoor cuisine.

For this specific grilled beer marinated chicken wings recipe, I cooked the wings on a High heat setting on my Traeger. The result? Crispy, succulent wings cooked in a flash, each imbued with that signature wood-fired flavor. After grilling, I toss these marvels in Traeger’s Sweet and Tangy Apricot BBQ Sauce. The combination of the beer marinade’s depth, the smoky char from the grill, and the vibrant sweetness of the apricot sauce is incredibly powerful and addictive. You won’t be able to resist getting deliciously sticky and messy with every single, amazing bite.

Given my deep affection for this grill, I’ll be sharing even more recipes featuring the Traeger soon. There’s simply too much to say about its capabilities to fit into just one post, so get ready for more exciting wood-fired adventures!

How to Make the Best Grilled Beer Marinated Chicken Wings

Creating these sensational wings is a straightforward process, broken down into three simple stages: marinating, grilling, and coating. Follow these steps for perfectly tender, flavorful wings every time.

Preparing and Marinating Your Wings

First, ensure your chicken wings are properly prepared. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and then pat them exceptionally dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the skin from crisping up effectively, so this step is crucial. Once dry, place the wings in a large bowl. Add the cornstarch and your chosen chicken rub (like Traeger’s Fin and Feather Rub) and toss everything together until each wing is evenly coated. The cornstarch, as mentioned, is your secret weapon for crispy skin.

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the ingredients for your flavorful marinade: beer (a pale ale, lager, or light IPA works best), soy sauce, honey, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, hot sauce (Frank’s Red Hot is excellent), salt, and rice wine vinegar. Once combined, pour this beer mixture over the coated wings in the large bowl and toss again, ensuring every piece is thoroughly covered in the liquid marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. For deeper flavor infusion, you can marinate them for up to 8 hours.

Grilling to Perfection

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to a high heat setting. If using a Traeger, set it to High. For other grills, aim for around 400-450°F (200-230°C). While the grill is heating, take a moment to prep your grates: coat them lightly with a high-smoke-point oil such as avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. This also helps in achieving those beautiful grill marks.

Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the preheated grates, ensuring the skin side is facing up. Close the grill lid and cook for approximately 20 minutes over indirect heat. This initial phase allows the wings to cook through gently while retaining their moisture and absorbing that wonderful smoky flavor from the wood pellets. If you’re using a charcoal or gas grill, create an indirect heat zone by only lighting burners on one side or pushing coals to one side, placing wings on the unlit side.

Coating and Serving

After 20 minutes, it’s time to add that irresistible BBQ sauce. Open the grill and generously brush your favorite BBQ sauce over each wing. Close the lid and continue to grill for an additional 5 minutes. This final burst of grilling heat will allow the BBQ sauce to caramelize slightly and adhere to the wings, creating a delicious glaze. Crucially, ensure the wings are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165˚F (74˚C) using an instant-read thermometer.

Once cooked, transfer the remaining BBQ sauce to a large, clean bowl. Add the hot, grilled wings to this bowl and toss them until they are completely coated in the luscious sauce. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Serve your perfectly grilled beer-marinated chicken wings immediately on a platter, perhaps with a vibrant sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. These wings are best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Must-Have Tools and Ingredients for This Recipe

To ensure your grilled beer-marinated chicken wings turn out absolutely perfect, here’s a rundown of the essential tools and specific ingredients that make this recipe a killer success. Even if you don’t own a Traeger grill, many of these accessories are invaluable for any grilling enthusiast.

First and foremost, if you’re looking to upgrade your grilling experience, seriously consider the Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill. It’s truly amazing for its versatility and the incredible wood-fired flavor it imparts. For this particular recipe, my top recommendation for pellets are these Traeger Grills Hickory 100% All-Natural Hardwood Pellets, which add a fantastic smoky depth to the chicken.

For seasoning, the Traeger Signature Spices Fin & Feather Rub is what I used to achieve that perfect flavor base for the wings. And for the ultimate sweet and tangy finish, the Traeger Grills Sweet & Tangy Apricot BBQ Sauce provides an ideal fruity, tangy pairing that elevates the entire dish.

To make the grilling process smoother, a pair of heavy-duty Traeger BBQ Tongs is indispensable for easily flipping the wings on the hot grates. For prepping your wings, a sturdy baking sheet is great, but dedicated grill prep trays can be even more convenient. And finally, a Traeger Silicone Basting Brush is a must-have for evenly coating your wings with that delicious BBQ sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making these grilled beer marinated chicken wings:

Can I marinade these wings for longer than 30 minutes?

Absolutely! While 30 minutes is the minimum to infuse some flavor, you can certainly marinate these wings for a longer period. For an even deeper flavor, I recommend marinating them for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator. This makes them an ideal make-ahead option for your next party or gathering, saving you time on the day of your event.

What type of beer is best for the marinade?

For this recipe, a pale ale, lager, or a lighter IPA works best. These beers offer a balanced flavor profile that enhances the chicken without being too overpowering or bitter. Avoid darker, heavier beers like stouts or porters, as their strong flavors can sometimes be too dominant in a marinade. A ginger golden ale, like the one I sometimes use, also offers a unique and delicious twist.

Can I make these wings on a regular gas or charcoal grill?

Yes, you definitely can! While I love my Traeger for its wood-fired flavor, these wings can be grilled on any type of grill. For gas grills, preheat to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F / 200-230°C) and aim for indirect heat for the initial cooking phase. For charcoal grills, bank your coals to one side to create a hot direct zone and a cooler indirect zone. Adjust cooking times as needed and always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How do I get crispy grilled chicken wings?

Several factors contribute to crispy grilled wings. First, ensure your wings are patted very dry before seasoning. Second, the cornstarch in this recipe is crucial as it creates a light, crispy coating. Third, using a high heat setting on the grill helps to crisp the skin. Finally, cooking over indirect heat initially helps render the fat slowly, leading to a crispier finish when moved to direct heat (if desired) or coated with sauce.

How should I store and reheat leftover wings?

Leftover grilled chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy and heated through, or reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the wings rubbery and lose their crispness.

And don’t forget to complement these fantastic wings with your favorite side dish recipe! Whether it’s a fresh coleslaw, a creamy potato salad, or some grilled corn on the cob, the right side dish will complete your meal.

Finally, if you try this delicious beer marinated wings recipe, please be sure to give it a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! I absolutely love hearing about your culinary successes and genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. Your feedback is invaluable and helps others discover these wonderful recipes!

Feel free to drop any questions you have in the comments section below, and I’ll be happy to help!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and I love looking through all your photos. It honestly means the world to me!

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Grilled Beer Marinated Chicken Wings

These incredibly juicy and flavorful Grilled Beer Marinated Chicken Wings are destined to become your favorite! The simple beer marinade is easy-to-make and pairs perfectly with almost any BBQ sauce you can imagine.

Prep Time:
40 minutes mins

Cook Time:
30 minutes mins

Total Time:
1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings:
6

4.2 from 26 votes

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Ingredients

• 2 1/2 lbs chicken wings and drumsticks
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp Traeger Fin and Feather Rub
• 2/3 cup beer I used a ginger golden ale but you can use a pale ale, lager, or light IPA
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp rice wine vinegar
• Traeger Wood Pellets I prefer Cherry for this particular recipe, but any will work!
• 2 cups BBQ sauce I used Traeger’s Sweet & Tangy Apricot Sauce
• Garnish: freshly chopped parsley

Instructions

• Rinse chicken wings in cold water and dry well with paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy skin!
• In a medium bowl, stir together cornstarch and Traeger Fin and Feather Rub (or your favorite chicken rub). Add the dried wings to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each wing is evenly coated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the beer, soy sauce, honey, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, salt, and rice wine vinegar until well combined. Pour this marinade over the cornstarch-coated wings and toss again to ensure full coverage.
• Cover the bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For maximum flavor, you can marinate for up to 8 hours.
• When ready to grill, preheat your Traeger grill to High (or a conventional grill to 400-450°F / 200-230°C).
• Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer, skin side up, on the oiled grill grates. Grill for 20 minutes, covered, over indirect heat.
• Brush the wings generously with BBQ sauce (I recommend Traeger’s Sweet & Tangy Apricot Sauce). Continue to grill for an additional 5 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74°C).
• Transfer the remaining BBQ sauce to a large, clean bowl. Add the hot, grilled wings and toss them until they are thoroughly coated in the sauce.
• Serve the wings immediately in a serving bowl or platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or green onion for an extra touch of freshness. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 460kcal |
Carbohydrates: 53g |
Protein: 21g |
Fat: 17g |
Saturated Fat: 5g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g |
Trans Fat: 0.2g |
Cholesterol: 79mg |
Sodium: 1846mg |
Potassium: 424mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 38g |
Vitamin A: 513IU |
Vitamin C: 1mg |
Calcium: 55mg |
Iron: 2mg

Calories:
460kcal

Category:
Appetizer