Arizona Tequila-Lime Grilled Chicken Wings

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and experience the bold, zesty flavors of Arizona-inspired tequila-lime chicken wings. These wings are marinated in a tantalizing tequila-lime blend, seared at 1,000°F on the center grill grate, and finished to perfection on the flat cooktop for that crispy yet juicy bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a flavorful grilled dish, these wings will steal the show!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 1/4 cup tequila
• 2 limes, juiced
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

1. In a large bowl, whisk together tequila, lime juice, lime zest, honey, melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach cooking temperature.

Step 3: Sear the wings on the center grill grate

1. Place the marinated wings on the 1,000°F center grill grate.
2. Sear for about 2 minutes per side to lock in juices and develop a flavorful crust.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the wings to the flat cooktop griddle surrounding the center grate.
2. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Remove the wings from the grill when they reach 150°F and let carryover cooking bring them up to 165°F.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
2. Enjoy your Arizona-inspired tequila-lime grilled chicken wings!

Tips

• Let the wings rest for 5 minutes after grilling to retain juices.
• For extra crispiness, pat the wings dry before marinating.
• Adjust spice levels by adding or reducing cayenne pepper.
• Pair with dipping sauces like avocado ranch or chipotle mayo.
• Use mesquite wood for added Southwest flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle: Add 1 tbsp adobo sauce from chipotle peppers to the marinade for a smokier, spicier kick.
2. Honey-Garlic: Swap smoked paprika for 1 tsp garlic paste and increase honey to 3 tbsp for a sweet-savory twist.
3. Mango Habanero: Replace lime juice with mango puree and add 1 minced habanero for tropical heat.
4. Cilantro-Lime: Double the lime zest and add 2 tbsp chopped cilantro to the marinade for a fresh herbaceous note.
5. Southwestern BBQ: Use BBQ sauce instead of honey and add 1/2 tsp ground coriander for a rich, tangy flavor.

Conclusion

Grilling on the Arteflame brings out the best in these tequila-lime chicken wings, giving them a perfectly crisp and juicy texture. Whether you're serving them for game day, a backyard party, or a casual meal, they’re sure to impress. Fire up the grill and savor the bold flavors of Arizona!

Best pairings

• Grilled street corn (elote) with cotija cheese
• Charred jalapeño guacamole with tortilla chips
• Southwest quinoa salad with black beans and corn
• Refreshing margarita or cold Mexican lager
• Grilled pineapple rings with cinnamon for dessert