Vermont Maple Chipotle Chicken Wings

Introduction

These sweet and spicy Vermont Maple Chipotle Chicken Wings are grilled to juicy perfection on the Arteflame grill. Packed with bold smoky flavors and caramelized maple goodness, this wing recipe delivers crispy edges and a tender, juicy interior—all thanks to the reverse searing technique on the Arteflame’s unique flat top and searing center grate. Perfect for game day, parties, or your next backyard cookout.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 cup Vermont maple syrup
• 2 tbsp canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack dry firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and let the fire build. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.
5. Use this time to prepare your ingredients.

Step 2: Prep the chicken wings

1. Pat dry the chicken wings with a paper towel.
2. In a large bowl, toss wings with melted butter, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until well coated.

Step 3: Make the maple chipotle glaze

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine Vermont maple syrup, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Stir to blend and set aside at room temperature.

Step 4: Start grilling the wings

1. Place the seasoned wings on the outer flat top of the Arteflame grill.
2. Grill for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden and partially cooked through.
3. As the wings sizzle, baste them with half of your glaze mixture about midway through this step.

Step 5: Sear the wings for crispiness

1. Transfer wings to the center searing grate of the Arteflame where the temperature hits 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 1–2 minutes until crispy and beautifully charred.
3. Move wings back to the flat top to finish cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Remember to remove them once they reach 150°F as carryover heat will finish the job off the grill.

Step 6: Finish and serve

1. Brush the remaining glaze over the grilled wings.
2. Let them rest 5 minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

Tips

• Always let the grill come to full heat before placing your meat—this ensures proper searing.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking the wings.
• Space wings out on the flat top for even cooking.
• Use real Vermont maple syrup for the deepest flavor.
• For smokier flavor, add small wood chunks or chips around the flame.

Variations

1. Honey-Lime Wings: Swap out the maple syrup for honey and add fresh lime juice and zest for a tangy twist.
2. Smoky Bourbon Wings: Add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for complexity and a smoky finish.
3. Ginger Soy Pepper Wings: Use soy sauce, fresh grated ginger, and black pepper for a more Asian-inspired flavor profile.
4. Spicy Mango Wings: Blend mango puree into your glaze with chipotle for a tropical-spicy combo.
5. Cranberry Maple Wings: Mix in a touch of cranberry sauce with your Vermont maple syrup for a tart and sweet balance—perfect for the holidays.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with herb butter
• Smoked baked beans cooked on the Arteflame flat top
• Cold Vermont craft IPA or hard cider
• Crunchy cabbage slaw with apple vinaigrette

Conclusion

These Vermont Maple Chipotle Chicken Wings are a true showstopper for any outdoor gathering. Grilling on the Arteflame brings out all the caramelized smoky sweetness while keeping the wings juicy and tender. With this foolproof method, every wing turns out irresistible.