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Chicken Wings Five Ways

These grilled chicken wings are a versatile and protein-rich option for any summer gathering. By grilling the wings rather than deep-frying them, you achieve a wonderfully crisp skin and succulent centre while keeping the dish lighter. The recipe offers five distinct flavour profiles, from a punchy Sriracha buffalo to a fragrant spicy coconut curry, ensuring there is a style to suit every palate at the table.

As a diabetes-friendly selection, these wings focus on high-quality protein and bold seasonings rather than sugary glazes. They are perfect for serving as a substantial appetiser or a main course alongside a crisp green salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables. Whether you prefer the zing of lemon pepper or the smoky depth of paprika, these wings provides a satisfying, homemade alternative to takeaway favourites.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chicken Wings Five Ways

  • 9 to 4.3kg chicken wings (about 36 large)

  • 45ml vegetable oil plus additional for grilling

  • Sauces to toss (see below)

  • Sriracha Buffalo Sauce

  • Lemon Pepper Garlic Vinaigrette

  • Balsamic Hoisin Sauce

  • Spicy Coconut Curry Sauce

  • Smoked Paprika Vinaigrette

How to make Chicken Wings Five Ways

Prepare grill for direct-heat cooking over medium-hot charcoal (medium-high heat for gas); see Grilling Procedure below.

Cut off tips from chicken wings with kitchen shears or a large heavy knife (save to make chicken stock), then halve wings at joint. Pat dry, then toss with 3 tablespoons oil and 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper in a large bowl.

Oil grill rack, then grill wings in batches (covered only if using gas grill), turning occasionally, until cooked through, 10 to 15 minutes per batch. Toss wings in a bowl with your choice of sauce. Transfer to a platter and serve.

Open vents on bottom of grill. Light a large chimney starter full of charcoal (preferably hardwood).

When coals are lit, dump them out across bottom rack, leaving a space free of coals on one side of grill equal to the size of the food to be grilled where food can be moved in case of any flare-ups. When charcoal turns grayish white (start checking coals after 15 minutes), the grill will be at its hottest and will then begin to cool off. How long you can hold your hand 5 inches above the grill rack directly over the coals determines the heat of your grill, as follows: HOT: 1 to 2 seconds MEDIUM HOT: 3 to 4 seconds LOW: 5 to 6 seconds

Preheat all burners on high, covered, 10 minutes, then adjust heat according to recipe.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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