Smoky Michigan Cherry Glazed Chicken Wings

Introduction

These smoky Michigan cherry glazed chicken wings are a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoked flavors. The intense sear at 1,000°F locks in the juices, while the cherry-infused BBQ glaze caramelizes to perfection on the Arteflame’s flat cooktop. Whether you're hosting a game-day feast or a summer BBQ, these wings will be the star of the grill.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
• 1 cup Michigan cherry BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Wood fire for the Arteflame grill

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over top of the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
5. Give the grill about 20 minutes to reach optimal temperature.

Step 2: Season the chicken wings

1. In a large bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar.
2. Pat the wings dry and toss them in the seasoning mix to coat evenly.

Step 3: Sear the wings on the grill grate

1. Place the wings on the center grill grate over the high heat.
2. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep, caramelized crust forms.

Step 4: Move wings to the flat cooktop

1. Transfer the wings to the flat cooktop for even cooking.
2. Continue cooking for 12-15 minutes, flipping occasionally.
3. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F, remove them from the grill.

Step 5: Glaze the wings

1. Mix the Michigan cherry BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
2. Brush the wings generously with the glaze.
3. Let the glaze warm on the griddle for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Always remove chicken wings at 150°F since they will continue cooking off the grill.
• Use real Michigan cherry BBQ sauce for the best balance of sweetness and tang.
• Searing on the center grill grate locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
• Position the wings near the outer cooktop edge if they are cooking too fast.
• For extra crispiness, baste with butter before glazing.

Variations

1. Spicy Cherry Wings: Add 1 tbsp sriracha to the glaze for a fiery kick.
2. Honey-Bourbon Cherry Wings: Mix in 1 tbsp bourbon and 2 tbsp honey for a sweet smoky twist.
3. Garlic Parmesan Cherry Wings: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and 1 tsp minced garlic to the glaze.
4. Teriyaki Cherry Wings: Swap out Dijon mustard for soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian fusion flair.
5. Maple-Cherry Glazed Wings: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for deep caramelized flavors.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn with garlic herb butter
• Smoky grilled sweet potatoes
• Charred jalapeño cornbread
• Crisp coleslaw with apple cider dressing
• Chilled Michigan cherry cider

Conclusion

These smoky Michigan cherry glazed chicken wings are a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoked flavors. The intense sear at 1,000°F locks in the juices, while the cherry-infused BBQ glaze caramelizes to perfection on the Arteflame’s flat cooktop. Whether you're hosting a game-day feast or a summer BBQ, these wings will be the star of the grill.