Introduction
Elevate your chicken wings with this delicious BBQ rub that brings together sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. Whether you’re grilling wings for a backyard BBQ or game day, this rub will give them a crispy, flavorful crust and mouthwatering taste. Designed to pair perfectly with the high heat of the Arteflame grill, these wings will cook evenly and caramelize beautifully, giving you that perfect bite every time.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional for a herby note)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rub
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, cumin, and thyme. Stir well to evenly distribute all the spices.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure the rub sticks well. Generously coat the wings with the BBQ rub, making sure to massage the seasoning into every part of the wings. Let the wings sit for 20-30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate them for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Fire Up the Grill
Start your Arteflame grill by lighting three paper napkins soaked in vegetable oil, stacking firewood over them, and letting the fire burn for about 20 minutes. Once the center grate reaches high heat, it's ready for searing.
Step 4: Grill the Wings
Place the wings directly on the outer flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill, where the heat is moderate. Cook the wings for about 15-20 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure even cooking. For a crispy, caramelized crust, you can sear the wings on the center grate for the last 2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Once the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F, remove them from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These BBQ chicken wings will have a perfect crispy texture and a smoky, sweet flavor that’s irresistible.
Tips
- Crispy Wings: For extra crispy wings, pat them dry before applying the rub, and don’t overcrowd them on the grill.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. Add more if you like your wings spicy, or omit it for a milder flavor.
- Marinate for Flavor: Let the wings sit with the rub for a few hours or overnight for the best flavor penetration.
Variations
- Honey BBQ Rub: Add 1 tbsp of powdered honey to the rub for a touch of sweetness that caramelizes perfectly on the grill.
- Buffalo BBQ Rub: Add 1 tsp of ground cayenne and 1 tsp of vinegar powder to the rub for a tangy, spicy kick similar to buffalo wings.
- Herb BBQ Rub: Mix in 1 tsp of dried oregano and rosemary for a herb-infused rub that complements grilled chicken.
- Lemon Pepper BBQ Rub: Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest and 1 tsp of black pepper for a zesty, citrusy twist on classic BBQ wings.
- Spicy Chipotle BBQ Rub: Swap the chili powder for chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Best Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve these wings with grilled corn, coleslaw, or a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
- Drinks: Pair with a cold beer, iced tea, or a smoky bourbon cocktail to complement the rich BBQ flavors.
Conclusion
This BBQ chicken wing rub is simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Perfect for grilling on the Arteflame, these wings will have a crispy crust with a smoky, sweet flavor that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or a small gathering, these wings are sure to be a hit.
