Best Apricot Glazed Grilled Chicken Wings Recipes

When it comes to delicious and easy-to-prepare meals, apricot glazed grilled chicken wings are surely a crowd-pleaser. The sweet apricot glaze caramelizes the chicken wings and lends a fruity flavor that is both tangy and sweet. Grilling the wings results in flavorful chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

The Ingredients

The ingredients for apricot glazed grilled chicken wings are relatively simple and inexpensive. You will need chicken wings, apricot jam, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. The chicken wings can be purchased fresh or frozen, and it is always best to use organic or free-range chicken if possible.

The Preparation

Preparation for this dish is easy and straightforward. First, you need to marinate the chicken wings in the apricot glaze mixture. In a small bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well blended. Then place the chicken wings into a resealable plastic bag or large bowl and pour the marinade over the wings, tossing to coat. Allow the wings to marinate in the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator.

The Grilling Process

Before grilling the wings, be sure to preheat the grill to high heat, and lightly oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, and discard the excess marinade. Place the wings on the grill, and cook until both sides are golden brown and crispy, approximately 6-8 minutes per side. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches at least 165°F before serving.

Serving Suggestions

When done, you can serve the apricot glazed grilled chicken wings with a side salad or steamed veggies, or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce. The sticky and flavorful glaze pairs well with rice or noodles, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option. You can also adjust the sweetness of the glaze according to your preference by adding more or less apricot jam or honey.

Variations

There are countless variations to the apricot glazed grilled chicken wings recipe that you can try. One popular alternative is to use chili paste or hot sauce instead of red pepper flakes to spice up the glaze. You can also add some apple cider vinegar for added tanginess or swap the apricot jam for other fruit preserves like peach or raspberry to change the flavor profile. If you want to make the dish spicy, try adding jalapenos or Thai chili peppers to the marinade.

Conclusion

In summary, apricot glazed grilled chicken wings are an easy and delicious dish that you can make in no time. The sweet and tangy apricot glaze is a perfect match for the crispy chicken wings, making it a crowd-pleasing option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try out different variations to find the one that works best for you and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!

Chicken wings are a popular dish amongst many people, loved for their succulent and crispy texture. There are a variety of ways to season and dress chicken wings, but one of the most delicious is to make apricot glazed grilled chicken wings. The sweet and tangy flavor of the apricot glaze pairs perfectly with the savory taste of the grilled chicken wings. However, to make your apricot glazed grilled chicken wings recipe perfect, there are valuable tips you should follow.

Tip #1: Choose the Right Chicken Wings

The first step to making perfect apricot glazed grilled chicken wings is to choose the right chicken wings. You want to make sure you select the freshest chicken wings possible, preferably organic or free-range chicken wings. The size of the chicken wings also matters; smaller wings are preferable as they cook faster and more evenly. Avoid wings that are too large or have been in the freezer for too long, as they may result in a dry or bland dish.

Tip #2: Prepare the Apricot Glaze in Advance

Preparation is key to making perfect apricot glazed grilled chicken wings. A crucial step in the preparation process is to make the apricot glaze in advance. Doing so will allow the flavors to meld together, making the glaze more flavorful when it is time to use it. You can store the glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, giving you the option to cook the chicken wings at your convenience.

Tip #3: Season the Chicken Wings Before Grilling

Seasoning the chicken wings before grilling is a crucial step in making perfect apricot glazed grilled chicken wings. You can use a variety of seasonings, including salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Coat the chicken wings evenly with the seasoning mix and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavor to seep in.

Tip #4: Grill the Chicken Wings Properly

Grilling the chicken wings properly is the most important step in making perfect apricot glazed grilled chicken wings. Start by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat. Once your grill is hot, place the chicken wings on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and lightly charred. Avoid overcooking the chicken wings, as this can result in dry and tasteless meat.

Direct Vs. Indirect Grilling

There are two types of grilling techniques that you can use to cook your apricot glazed chicken wings – direct and indirect grilling. Direct grilling is when you place the chicken wings directly over the heat source, resulting in quick cooking and charring. On the other hand, indirect grilling is when you cook the chicken wings away from the heat source, resulting in slow cooking and even heat distribution. Both techniques can be used to cook apricot glazed grilled chicken wings, depending on your preference.

Tip #5: Brush the Chicken Wings with Apricot Glaze

Once your chicken wings are grilled to your liking, the next step is to brush them with the apricot glaze to add that sweet and tangy flavor. Use a silicone brush to coat the chicken wings evenly with the glaze on both sides. Brush the glaze on the chicken wings during the last 2 minutes of cooking on each side, to prevent burning.

Tip #6: Garnish the Chicken Wings

Remember that the presentation is just as important as the taste when it comes to cooking. To give your apricot glazed grilled chicken wings an extra oomph, you can garnish them with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro. Alternatively, you can serve them with a side of fresh apricot salsa or a mixed greens salad for a complete and healthy meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making perfect apricot glazed grilled chicken wings is a relatively easy task if you follow these valuable tips. Preparing the apricot glaze in advance, seasoning the chicken wings, grilling them properly, brushing them with the glaze, and garnishing them can all make a difference in the final taste and presentation of the dish. Incorporate these tips into your apricot glazed grilled chicken wings recipe, and you are assured of a delicious, mouth-watering dish that will impress your family and friends.